When Dan Mueller, Controller, started with Wipaire three years ago, it was his goal to help make the company more productive with new and more efficient technologies. Wipaire began their technology upgrade process by reconfiguring their infrastructure. They were experiencing multiple network issues, including trying to keep an outdated Solomon accounting package running until they make a decision on a new ERP system. They also wanted to put the infrastructure in place for a new Voice over IP (VoIP) communications system, which would offer them additional communications features and reduce their maintenance costs. Their existing system consisted of 80 analog phone lines which was costing them $40-$60 per line per month.

As Wipaire’s network became more complicated, they looked to Marco for technical support. Dan worked with Chad Vukich, Marco Account Representative, to review their needs. Chad made recommendations to not only keep their network running smoothly, but also to help put the infrastructure in place for VoIP.

To help address some of Wipaire’s networking issues, Marco helped reconfigure their network with two additional servers, dedicating an HP server to handle their engineering and CADD drawings. Marco also replaced the Category 5 cabling from their paint shop to their main building with fiber optics to enhance their data backbone and increase bandwidth. Wipaire uses a point to point T1 line to connect voice and data at two of their locations.

Dan explained, “We needed to integrate our many platforms. Marco provided us the expertise to get our Solomon package functioning properly. In addition, we were looking at updating our communications system with a VoIP system. To bring in any IP system, we needed to get our network managed and supported first. Rick Stulac (Marco Technical Engineer) was what I needed to get the job done. Rick is very good at what he does and very professional. I can’t say enough good things about Chad. He is on top of things. It’s one less thing I have to worry about and focus on.”

Once Wipaire’s network issues were resolved, they were ready to look at upgrading their communications system to a new VoIP system. They looked at options from three to four different vendors, but chose Marco for several reasons. “We were pleased with Marco’s performance during our network upgrade and liked the idea that they also had the expertise we needed for our communications system, without having to outsource it to another vendor.” They also liked the features of the Mitel VoIP product. Marco has almost 20 years of experience in the communications industry and has been a Mitel certified partner since 1986.

In October 2003, Marco implemented a Mitel Networks 3300 VoIP system along with 13 wireless access points at Wipaire’s main building and float factory so their manufacturing staff can communicate using wireless handsets. Julia Ringsmuth, Marco Project Manager, provided Wipaire onsite system training and more in depth training for their receptionist. Dan commented, “The phone system was connected and tested with very minimal downtime.” The new system eliminated almost all of their analog lines. Wipaire also invested in a battery backup system in case of a power outage. “The Mitel IP phones are very reliable,” said Dan. “We now have consistency in our phone service all of the time. Without a doubt, it was worth the investment!” With the Mitel VoIP system, Wipaire invested in a one time phone and license fee per phone, eliminating the monthly line charges per handset—saving them over $2,000 per month in communication costs.

Dan was pleased with Marco’s implementation process. “Marco’s people were helpful and knowledgeable, and when we had an issue, they solved it. Knowing that IT projects never go 100% as planned, I was pleased with how smooth the implementation went.  We were at 95% - I don’t think we could have done any better than that!”

When asked to describe their experience with Marco in one sentence, Dan was able to describe it in one word, “Comfortable!” He added, “I see a lot of value in service, and I’m very comfortable with what we paid for and the service Marco provided. If anyone asks, I always recommend Marco.”

Wipaire is the world’s largest manufacturer of aircraft floats and a full service aviation center with three buildings located in South St. Paul. Wipaire also provides maintenance, avionics, paint, interiors, and a variety of aircraft modifications. They employ approximately 130 people, 90 of which are in manufacturing.