Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Can Do: Connection through communication with Will Schmautz

Will Schmautz
Will Schmautz

20 years ago, four enterprising Montana college friends working as professional river guides had the idea to modify the buses used to haul customers to accommodate firefighters during the fire season. Noticing the lack of modern communication capabilities in the fire camps and field operations, they began to brainstorm how state of the art communication could be implemented by emergency service personnel during disaster.

In 2005, their fledgling company NOMAD Global Communication Solutions produced its first custom unit. In August of that year, it was deployed for use during Hurricane Katrina. By 2014, NOMAD was building 67 vehicles for the National Guard, among many other customers. Today, more than 170 employees in Flathead Valley, Montana build 10 types of vehicles for uses as diverse as mobile mammography and tank training for the army.

Today on Can Do, we'll hear from Will Schmautz — CEO and co-founder of NOMAD. Will is going to share how an idea amongst friends grew into one of those most dynamic and forward-focused technology manufacturers in the state.

Arnie Sherman's experiences as an entrepreneur, trade negotiator, strategic advisor, college professor and as the host of podcast, radio and television programs give him a singular perspective on life and the business world.
Become a sustaining member for as low as $5/month
Make an annual or one-time donation to support MTPR
Pay an existing pledge or update your payment information
Related Content