Staying ahead in the tech space isn’t just about innovation, it’s about collaboration. At AVANT, we celebrate those who go beyond delivering solutions by working alongside us to ensure even greater success at every level. We call them Vendor Hustlers—individuals who exceed expectations, strengthen partnerships, and make an impact that reaches far beyond their own teams. Our 2024 Vendor Hustler Award winners exemplify what it means to be a true partner. They connect, support, and drive the industry and the Trusted Advisor movement forward.
Congratulations to all the recipients of the Vendor Hustler Awards! Here’s what their nominators from the AVANT team had to say.
Kara Abendroth & Megan Ackerley of Equinix. Nominated by AVANT Commissions, they expressed:
“Megan & Kara manage every TSD’s uniqueness. They do their best to answer intelligently and professionally with the intel provided and available to them; even if the TSD could answer themselves.”
Brian Hiner of Rackspace, nominated by Tobey Harbour. Tobey wrote:
“While we all know Brian plays many roles at Rackspace, and that has likely doubled lately, he is truly a great individual whose integrity shines through. It’s rare to encounter such a person, and I believe a rare gem should be announced publicly. Brian has personally been a rock for me in amazing ways, pulling favors and finding creative solutions (AND I MEAN CREATIVE). He is truly an out-of-the-box player, and his commitment to AVANT and the channel is unprecedented.”
Tiffany O’Malley of Uniphore, nominated by AVANT Engineering, who had this to say:
“Tiffany is amazing and always very prompt in answering our random questions. I very much appreciate her thoroughness, attention to detail, and willingness to always help AVANT SEs. She makes our job easier by doing the hard work on her end and never complaining. She’s a great asset to AVANT and to Uniphore, and she deserves recognition.”
Rick Graner of Comcast, nominated by Rick Mischka. Rick mentioned:
“Rick Graner, Solutions Engineer at Comcast Business Global, is truly focused on hitting the TSDs and being available for questions. He has also done an exceptional job scheduling training and getting use cases approved for the TAs.”
Susan Zahka of Granite, nominated by Tobey Harbour. Tobey shared:
“Susan has been with Granite for as long as I can remember. She is always so helpful. She and her team are willing, and frequently do join calls with us and our partners to help us understand the commission breakdown. She and her team send our TAs monthly analysis reports for some of our large accounts that are hard to reconcile, which helps our TAs manage their customers’ commissions. Susan is very responsive and replies quickly to our inquiries and requests. She is an asset to our team, and I want to thank her for being so amazing.”
Terance Butler of Granite, nominated by Tobey Harbour. Tobey said:
“Terance works with Susan (Zahka) and is being trained by an amazing leader. He is responsive, helpful, and provides the analysis reports we have requested (which we only knew were available because they offered them an incredible gesture). I want to make sure he knows how valuable he is to our team and how much we appreciate him!”
Tim Maestas of Verizon, nominated by Karen Carver. Karen shared:
“I am beyond driven to recognize this person, who, in my opinion, went above and beyond the call of duty. Tim was deeply involved in assisting with getting an order activated on behalf of AVANTand our strategic partners at ATC-CT, even though he didn’t have to take the call or assist. He remained engaged until the end-user customer was satisfied. I sincerely want to make sure that Tim Maestas at Verizon is recognized for doing the ‘common things, uncommonly well.”
Jahmel Richards of Warner Telecom, nominated by AVANT Sales. They wrote:
“Jahmel Richards with Warner Telecom has gone above and beyond to support the growth and development of the Mountain West with AVANT. I appreciate the support and partnership that Jahmel gives to the AVANT team.”
Our Vendor Hustlers go above and beyond every day, strengthening our partnerships and driving meaningful growth in the channel. Their dedication and relentless hustle is what sets them apart, and we’re incredibly grateful to work alongside them. Congratulations once again to our Q2, Q3, and Q4 winners of 2024—you closed the year on a high note, and we can’t wait to see all that you accomplish next!