Bluewave Technology Group Expands Northeast Presence with the Acquisition of AVAIL Technology Solutions’ Advisory Business

February 20th, 2025 – San Clemente, CA

Bluewave Technology Group (“Bluewave”), a leader in technology advisory and sourcing, today announced the acquisition of the advisory division of AVAIL Technology Solutions (“AVAIL”), a premier technology procurement and management firm based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. This strategic move strengthens Bluewave’s position in the Northeast and enhances its ability to deliver customer-centric advisory services across cloud, network, customer experience (CX), and security.

For over 35 years, AVAIL has built a reputation as a trusted technology advisor, pioneering the brokered telecom business model since its original founding in 1989. Today, AVAIL supports over 800 clients and tens of millions in annual IT services. With a deep-rooted commitment to client advocacy, this acquisition further amplifies Bluewave’s mission to provide comprehensive, independent technology advisory services, helping enterprises navigate an increasingly complex IT landscape with a customer-first approach.

“This acquisition represents a natural alignment between Bluewave and AVAIL,” said Seth Penland, CEO and Founder of Bluewave Technology Group. “AVAIL’s long-standing reputation as a trusted advisor, their deep industry expertise, and their commitment to customer success mirror our own values. Together, we are enhancing our ability to serve enterprises with the insights, expertise, and vendor-neutral guidance they need to drive technology decisions with confidence.”

The integration of AVAIL’s advisory business into Bluewave brings expanded solution advisory expertise across network, cloud, CX, and security, further strengthening the company’s ability to deliver strategic technology solutions. Clients will continue to benefit from AVAIL’s established relationships with technology providers, now supported by Bluewave’s extensive resources and industry leadership. The transition ensures a seamless experience for AVAIL’s existing customers while enhancing their access to an even broader portfolio of solutions.

“As the technology landscape continues to evolve, this partnership allows AVAIL’s advisory business to deliver even greater value to our clients,” said Jason Cadwalader, President and CTO of AVAIL Technology Solutions. “Bluewave’s extensive resources, deep industry relationships, and client-first philosophy align perfectly with the approach that has made AVAIL successful for decades.”

With this acquisition, Bluewave reinforces its leadership in the technology advisory space, ensuring businesses nationwide have access to best-in-class advisory services and strategic technology solutions.

About Bluewave Technology Group

Bluewave is a technology advisory and sourcing partner transforming how businesses acquire and manage technology solutions. Leveraging decades of industry expertise, Bluewave helps clients modernize their IT and telecom infrastructure while maximizing their technology investments. With a comprehensive approach that spans cloud, colocation, network, mobility, security, and customer experience solutions, Bluewave ensures businesses thrive in a fast-changing technology landscape.

About AVAIL Technology Solutions

Founded in 1989, AVAIL Technology Solutions has been a leader in technology procurement and management advisory services, supporting over 800 clients across multiple industries. With a focus on customer advocacy, deep market expertise, and ongoing support, AVAIL has helped businesses navigate complex IT decisions while ensuring long-term success.

Bluewave Technology Group Expands Northeast Footprint with the Acquisition of Comtel Group, Inc.

November 19th, 2024 – Boston, MA

Bluewave Technology Group (“Bluewave”), a leader in technology advisory and sourcing, today announced the acquisition of Comtel Group, Inc. (“Comtel”), a technology advisor and agency headquartered in Needham, MA. This strategic move strengthens Bluewave’s position in the Northeast, adding over 300 clients and expanding its reach to support businesses with our comprehensive technology advisory services.

Founded in 1990, Comtel has built a reputation as a trusted advisor, providing expert guidance to clients in selecting the right technology vendors. Comtel specializes in sourcing solutions by matching client requirements, vetting providers, and recommending the best-fit vendors through demos and proposals. This customer-first approach aligns seamlessly with Bluewave’s mission of empowering businesses to navigate their most critical technology decisions.

This acquisition is not just a geographic expansion—it’s a win for Comtel’s clients. By joining Bluewave, clients can now access a broader range of solution advisory expertise across network, cloud, customer experience (CX), and security. Whether designing a cloud migration strategy, enhancing network security, or improving customer experience through advanced contact center technologies, Bluewave’s depth of expertise and vendor network will provide significant value to Comtel’s long-standing client base.

“We’re excited to provide Comtel’s clients with access to Bluewave’s expanded resources and expertise,” said Seth Penland, Founder and CEO of Bluewave. “With Comtel’s strong relationships in the Northeast and Bluewave’s ability to assess, advise, and advocate throughout the entire buying process, we’ll empower businesses to navigate their technology decisions more effectively and achieve their goals faster.”

Stephen Morris, Co-Founder and President of Comtel, also shared his enthusiasm for the acquisition: “For over 30 years, we’ve built our success on understanding our clients’ needs and providing personalized, reliable service. Joining forces with Bluewave enables our clients to access broader capabilities and strategic support, ensuring they get the best-fit technology solutions for their business challenges. The Comtel team is excited to work together with Bluewave, combining our strengths to deliver greater value to our clients.”

This acquisition highlights Bluewave’s continued commitment to expanding its expertise and market presence, ensuring that businesses across the Northeast and beyond can access the most effective and innovative technology solutions.

About Bluewave Technology Group

Bluewave is a technology advisory and sourcing partner transforming how businesses acquire and manage technology solutions. Leveraging decades of industry expertise, Bluewave helps clients modernize their IT and telecom infrastructure while maximizing their technology investments. With a comprehensive approach that spans cloud, colocation, network, mobility, security, and customer experience solutions, Bluewave ensures businesses thrive in a fast-changing technology landscape.

About Comtel Group, Inc.

Founded in 1990, Comtel Group, Inc. is a leading telecom advisory firm based in the Boston metro. With over 30 years of experience, Comtel has built lasting relationships with its clients by providing unbiased technology advice and ensuring long-term customer satisfaction. Serving a diverse client base, primarily across the Northeast, Comtel focuses on understanding customer needs and delivering tailored solutions to meet their business objectives.

Media Contacts

press@bluewave.net

Local business leaders discuss cybersecurity risks, possible solutions

Although tales of early email fraud have made a meme of Nigerian princes, online scams are no laughing matter. In 2023, Gallup Research concluded that in the previous year, 8% of American adults had been tricked into sending money or providing access to their bank account. With AI on the horizon, the threats are becoming much more sophisticated. With millions at stake, the risk is potentially devastating to small and mid-sized companies. Problems this massive require robust solutions, sometimes within a constellation of professionals across different industries.

Read the entire article: Austin Business Journal Cybersecurity Article October 2024

Strategic Acquisition Enhances Bluewave’s Market Presence and Client Advocacy in the Region

Parsippany, N.J., May 29th, 2024 – Bluewave Technology Group (“Bluewave”), a leading technology advisory and sourcing company focused on strategic growth, is pleased to announce its acquisition of ForesTel, a respected telecommunications advisory firm based in West Linn, Oregon. The financial details of the transaction remain confidential. This acquisition marks Bluewave’s first entry into the Pacific Northwest, expanding its market presence.

Founded in 1989, ForesTel began as a reseller of long distance, frame relay, and DIA circuits. In 2003, the company transitioned to an agent model, providing impartial telecom solutions to clients throughout the greater Portland area. Today, with a strong client base of over 700 active customers, ForesTel is recognized as a leading technology advisory firm in the region. Under the leadership of Dennis Allen, President and Owner, ForesTel has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service, ensuring seamless business operations for its clients.

“With 35 years of strategic advisory expertise and a strong reputation in the Portland area for client care, ForesTel not only extends our reach in the U.S. but also enhances our dedication to client advocacy,” said Seth Penland, Founder and CEO of Bluewave. He expressed his enthusiasm for this strategic move and the value it brings to Bluewave’s offerings.

Dennis Allen, President and Owner of ForesTel, emphasized the significance of embracing technological advancements. “For the past 35 years, ForesTel has driven sustained growth by prioritizing customer experience and fostering an environment where exceptional interactions are the norm. We are thrilled to join forces with Bluewave, enhancing our customer experience by providing our clients with more technology resources and supplier advocacy.”

This acquisition reinforces Bluewave’s commitment to excellence and positions the company for future growth and enhanced service delivery.

About Bluewave Technology Group

Bluewave is an advisory and sourcing partner transforming how companies acquire and manage technology solutions. Our team of technology experts and analysts, leveraging our proven approach, guides businesses of all sizes to make well-informed technology decisions. Specializing in modernizing the IT and telecom infrastructure, Bluewave partners with proven cloud, colocation, network, mobility, security, and CX providers to develop the best solution while maximizing technology investments and ensuring long-term success.

About ForesTel

Founded in 1989, ForesTel is a leading telecommunications solutions provider. Evolving with the industry, we offer a comprehensive range of services, including Voice, Data, Cloud, Colo, and Security. We serve over 700 commercial clients across North America and internationally and focus on crafting tailored solutions to meet your needs. In a sector where customer service often falls short, ForesTel stands out by delivering accessible, personalized, and expert service. Our team brings over 100 years of combined experience in telecommunications, ensuring exceptional problem resolution and support.

Press Contact

press@bluewave.net

Bluewave Strengthens Corporate Development Team with Key Appointments

Parsippany, N.J. – March 7, 2024 – Bluewave Technology Group (Bluewave), a leading nationwide technology advisory and sourcing company committed to strategic growth, announces the addition of two seasoned professionals to its ranks: Steven Meeker as Senior Vice President of Corporate Development and industry luminary Craig Schlagbaum as an independent Strategic Advisor. In their new capacities, Meeker will spearhead our mergers and acquisitions (M&A) sourcing strategy, and Schlagbaum will support both M&A and key strategic initiatives bolstering Bluewave’s presence in the technology advisory sector.

Bluewave has embarked on an ambitious growth trajectory in recent years, acquiring fourteen strategic advisory firms and consolidating its brand to offer over 7000 clients a unified and client-focused experience. With a combined experience of over 40 years, Meeker and Schlagbaum bring invaluable expertise and insights that will further propel Bluewave’s mission.

“We are thrilled to welcome Steven to our team. His extensive background in M&A and a passion for empowering business owners will undoubtedly drive our corporate development initiatives to new heights,” remarked Seth Penland, Founder and CEO of Bluewave. “In addition to having Steven lead our M&A sourcing efforts, we now have Craig’s guidance and support in our M&A strategy and strategic initiatives,” added Penland. “Craig is a respected figure in the channel, having pioneered the telecom industry’s indirect distribution model. His wealth of experience will be instrumental in identifying advisors who are personally ready to transition and become part of the Bluewave platform.”

Meeker arrives at Bluewave with 15 years of M&A experience, assisting over 40 entrepreneurial business owners in raising capital, scaling operations, and navigating successful exits. Meeker has held several executive roles, including Chief Strategy Officer at Dealer Socket, leading M&A and the integration for multiple acquired business units, and, most recently, Chief Operating Officer at Vision Dealer Solutions, where he played a pivotal role in driving operational excellence.

Before joining Bluewave, Schlagbaum served as Senior Vice President and Indirect Channel Chief at Comcast Business, overseeing a billion-dollar business, and leading a team of over 150 indirect channel colleagues. With a distinguished career spanning companies such as Ingram Micro, Sony, IBM, Level 3, and Comcast Business, Schlagbaum has consistently delivered award-winning channel programs, cementing his reputation as a trailblazer.

The addition of Meeker and Schlagbaum underscores Bluewave’s commitment to strategic growth and innovation, positioning the company for continued success in the dynamic technology advisory landscape.

About Bluewave Technology Group

Bluewave is an advisory and sourcing partner transforming how companies acquire and manage technology solutions. Our team of technology experts and analysts, leveraging our proven approach, guides businesses of all sizes to make well-informed technology decisions. Specializing in modernizing the IT and telecom infrastructure, Bluewave partners with proven cloud, colocation, network, mobility, security, and CX providers to develop the best solution while maximizing technology investments and ensuring long-term success.

Media Contacts

Lisa Guillaume, press@bluewave.net

Bluewave Technology Group Congratulates Four Leaders Named to the 2024 Channel Futures Technology Advisor 101

PARSIPPANY, N.J.– (March 5, 2024) — Bluewave Technology Group proudly announces that Paul Weiss, Lisa Kwiatkowski, Steven Blumberg, and John Anderson, have earned coveted spots on the 2024 Channel Futures Technology Advisor 101. These respected individuals are being recognized for their outstanding contributions in the technology advisory channel. They will be honored at the Channel Partners Conference & Expo, March 11-14 in Las Vegas.

The 101 honorees represent the best and brightest individuals in the technology advisory channel. This is a peer nominated award that Channel Futures created to recognize partners who deliver technology solutions to clients on a variety of technologies, including connectivity, data center, customer experience, unified communications, and cybersecurity. Honorees stood out for their business success and innovation, advocacy and thought leadership in the channel, and their commitment to customer experience.

Paul Weiss, Bluewave’s Managing Partner and VP of Solution Advisory, stands out for his client-focused approach, honed during his tenure at Helm Partners before Bluewave’s acquisition in 2022. He excels at identifying organizational needs swiftly and advocating for tailored CX, AI, and CCaaS solutions that deliver optimal value. Paul’s influence extends beyond Bluewave as he actively mentors new providers in the CX/AI space, facilitating connections for their success. His commitment to technology advancement is evident in his active participation in advisory boards, where he shapes product positioning, roadmaps, and industry feedback, showcasing his dedication to lifelong learning and knowledge sharing.

Lisa Kwiatkowski, Vice President of Strategic Accounts at Bluewave, brings over 17 years of telecom industry expertise, focused on client success at Helm Partners before joining Bluewave. Lisa’s leadership is marked by her unwavering commitment to fostering talent and achieving client outcomes. Leading the client-centric Account Director team, she emphasizes the importance of unbiased agency models and focus on outcomes. Lisa’s dedication to talent development and client success underscores her pivotal role in Bluewave’s continued growth and innovation.

Steven Blumberg, Bluewave’s Director of Revenue Operations, plays a crucial role in ensuring seamless sales and client operations. Responsible for vital functions such as our platform for quoting, client relationships, and partner relations, Steven sets the gold standard for operational excellence. His hands-on approach in building Bluewave’s quote-to-cash system empowers our teams with invaluable insights backed by data. Steven’s commitment to maintaining strong partner relationships and ensuring seamless business transactions underscores his strategic vision and unwavering dedication to Bluewave’s success.

John Anderson, an advisor and brand ambassador at Bluewave, brings a wealth of industry experience and leadership to the table. Formerly a co-owner of Resource Communications Group, acquired by Bluewave in 2023, John’s expertise lies in building rich client experiences through comprehensive telecom management services. Active in the Nashville technology community, his role as a board member of the Greater Nashville Technology Council underscores his commitment to industry advancement and innovation. With a passion for fostering connections, John continues to be a driving force in Bluewave’s success story.

“We’re truly honored to see four outstanding members of the Bluewave team recognized for their contributions in advancing the channel,” said Lisa Guillaume, Chief Marketing Officer at Bluewave. “Paul, Lisa, Steven, and John lead by example, seamlessly collaborating with partners to ensure our clients achieve the most impactful outcomes from their technology investments. Their dedication sets a standard not only within Bluewave but across the entire industry.”

About Bluewave Technology Group

Bluewave is an advisory and sourcing partner transforming how companies acquire and manage technology solutions. Our team of technology experts and analysts, leveraging our proven approach, guides businesses of all sizes to make well-informed technology decisions. Specializing in modernizing the IT and telecom infrastructure, Bluewave partners with proven cloud, colocation, network, mobility, security, and CX providers to develop the best solution while maximizing technology investments and ensuring long-term success.

About Channel Futures

Channel Futures is a media and events destination for the information and communication technologies (ICT) channel community. We provide information, perspective and connection for the entire channel ecosystem, including solution providers (SPs), managed service providers (MSPs), managed security service providers (MSSPs), cloud service providers (CSPs), value-added resellers (VARs) and distributors, technology solutions brokerages, subagents and agents, as well as leading technology vendor partners and communication providers.

Media Contacts

Lisa Guillaume, press@bluewave.net