WASHINGTON, Oct 10, 2008 /PRNewswire-USNewswire via COMTEX News Network/ -- Dan Hesse, CEO of Sprint Nextel, will address the future of wireless communication at a National Press Club luncheon on Friday, October 24. Named the most influential person in mobile technology by Laptop Magazine in 2008, Hesse will discuss how wireless is evolving beyond voice and how new applications will bring added complexity and create challenges for customers and carriers alike.

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According to CTIA, the International Association for the Wireless Telecommunications Industry, there are more than 262 million wireless subscribers in the United States today compared to 194 million in 2005. More households are abandoning their landlines for wireless, and as technology advances, more users are accessing data and entertainment on their wireless devices. As a result, wireless carrier employment is growing 4.1 percent year-over-year and annualized total wireless revenues are approaching $145 billion.

Hesse, who was named chief executive officer of Sprint Nextel in December 2007, has witnessed first-hand the growth of wireless during a lengthy career in the telecommunications industry. Prior to his appointment as Sprint CEO, Hesse was the Chairman and CEO of Embarq Corporation, a $6 billion voice, data, wireless and entertainment services company. Hesse also held various leadership positions at AT&T, including President & CEO of the company's wireless division, during a 23 year tenure.

The National Press Club luncheon will begin promptly at 12:30 p.m. Hesse's remarks will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by a question-and-answer session. Advance reservations should be made by telephoning (202) 662-7501. Cost of the luncheon is $16 for National Press Club members, $28 for guests of members, and $35 general admission.

The National Press Club is located at 14th and F. Streets, NW, one block west of Metro Center. More information about the Club and its programs is found on its Internet website: www.press.org.

SOURCE National Press Club

http://www.press.org/

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