Cox says Bye's exit does not diminish its wireless plans

Amid news of Stephen Bye’s departure as VP of wireless at Cox Communications Inc., the cable company issued a statement that it remains committed to its wireless operations, highlighting its recent launch plans in Oklahoma. Bye is moving on to become VP of technology development at Sprint Nextel Corp. on March 14.
“We appreciate Stephen’s contributions to the successful launch of our wireless business. We are thankful for the dedication and operational excellence of our wireless team as we deliver on our commitment to launching additional markets and enhancing the Cox customer experience,” according to an e-mail from Cox.
Len Barlik, Cox’s executive VP of product development and management, will run the wireless division until a permanent re-placement is found.
Cox is getting ready to roll out service in Oklahoma City and Tulsa . The company also offers wireless service in Hampton Roads, Va.; Omaha, Neb.; and Orange County, Calif.
Cox has AWS spectrum and is using CDMA technology today, with a roaming agreement with Sprint Nextel for nationwide coverage, but also has been testing LTE technology. Cox owns 12 megahertz of spectrum licenses covering 76% of its wireline footprint.