The Southern Piedmont Technology Council is pleased to launch its newest benefit: Member Spotlight. Each month, identified members will be showcased in the newsletter, on the web site and in social media. Our hope is that you will discover more about your SPTC colleagues as we journey our diverse technology paths together.
Our inaugural member spotlight feature is a member whose roots are not only deep from this region but who is also committed to its growth. Enjoy the comments from its founder, Lenny Keesee, as he reviews the past, discusses the present and contemplates the future:
River City Systems a locally-owned technology integrator providing structured cabling, network installs, security cameras, access control, pro audio & much more. Their small business brings over 25 years of experience supporting IT throughout multiple disciplines across Virginia, North Carolina and beyond.
What’s an interesting fact about your business most people don’t know?
Our business started three years ago primarily specializing in installing structured cabling and security cameras. Since then we’ve grown to also provide pro audio/video, access control systems, intrusion detection, fire alarms and fixed wireless broadband solutions. We also install a large amount of our own conduit which is pretty rare for companies like ours that specialize primarily in low-voltage applications.
What would you like to share about your business or organization with our members?
We are a small family owned business that started out of a garage and basement office in our earlier days. We now maintain an office in downtown Danville within our sister company’s space, River City Coworking.
Why did you become involved in the SPTC?
My first “real” job was a paid IT internship with Pittsylvania County Schools. I remembered PCS being presented with awards by the SPTC for a number of IT innovations through the early 2000s. It was great to see the department be recognized for those achievements back then and it was my first exposure to the SPTC. I knew the SPTC would be a worthwhile organization to support after starting our business in 2017.
What positive impact have you witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic?
We’ve seen an outpouring of information made available in regards to setting up livestream video systems. Prior to the pandemic, information on setting up affordable livestream hardware and software was very limited. Thankfully that has all changed. Staff members and volunteers from houses of worship across the world have documented their setups and have been willing to openly share that information across the internet. This has enabled us to assist a few local churches with providing livestream services.
Name one thing tech-related that you have learned in the last month?
We just installed our first Wi-Fi6 (802.11ax) system recently which allows data transfer speeds over two gbps wirelessly. We’ve come a long way from dialup internet and 9600 bps modems in a short amount of time!
The SPTC Board of Directors hopes you’ve enjoyed this new feature. We are excited to share the good news that’s happening with all of our members.
*Editor’s Note:
Pittsylvania County Schools received the following SPTC awards:
2000: Leadership in Education Award
2002: Leadership in Telecommunications Infrastructure Award
2006: Leadership in Government
For more information on River City Systems visit https://www.rivercitysys.com or call 434.549.5292.
Want to be featured? Contact Rachel Reynolds at info@sptc-va.org for more information.