From banking to telecommunications.
From an early age, Eric Schmid was interested in telecommunications. Communication and networking always fascinated him more than figures and office life. The trained bank clerk therefore moved into the telecommunications industry back in 1987. He has worked at cablex since 2020 as Team Leader Overhead Lines for the Biel, Bern and Thun regions. In his current role especially he has realised how much he enjoys working with people and being out and about.
Internet and telephone services for remote areas.
Why overhead lines remain important.
Overhead lines have shaped Swiss telecommunications for over 150 years. The first telephone connections via overhead lines were established in 1877. Nowadays, most lines run underground. Nevertheless, there are still around 400,000 overhead line masts across Switzerland.
The main reason lies in Switzerland's topography. In mountainous regions, remote valleys or hard-to-access areas, overhead lines are often the most efficient and cost-effective way of bringing people reliable telecommunication and internet services.
After all, underground expansion is not always technically feasible or financially viable. Overhead lines therefore still ensure that even remote regions remain connected to Switzerland's digital infrastructure.
Fibre-optic technology is also viable via overhead lines. For customers, this means the same service as with underground solutions.
Lines of all kinds.
However, overhead lines are only a small part of cablex's business. We have extensive experience in constructing and maintaining wide-ranging networks – whether for telecommunications or power supply. Thanks to our long-term experience, we ensure reliable connections.
Places hardly anyone sees.
Working on overhead lines takes Eric and his teams to places most people never see. Work takes place outdoors all year – come snow, rain or heat. Eric describes his staff as resilient, down-to-earth and easy-going. It's this mix that makes teamwork so special, says Eric.
