THE VALENCE TEAM
Valence Mission Critical Technologies is your full-service communications equipment provider.
MICHAEL J. DEAKINS
PRESIDENT / FOUNDER
Michael founded the company in mid-2002 under the premise that a company could maintain "small business" dedication to high quality customer service while offering "large company" capabilities, product-offerings, and exemplary service. Combined with a strong desire to provide alternatives to the then somewhat limited communications vendors list, Valence Wireless & Communications was formed. Michael was trained in the electronics and communications fields in the U.S. Navy where he worked on Comm, Radar and Commercial Land Mobile Radio equipment. After leaving the service, he worked for two Spokane-based Motorola Shops where he furthered his knowledge and experience in this industry. Michael is responsible for most high-level business functions as well as managing the technical and operational sides of the company.
JACOB DEAKINS
FIELD & INSTALLATION TECHNICIAN
Jake Deakins is about two years into the industry and doing extremely well. Just recently, he completed a solo build of two 2020 Ford Interceptors for one of our local county sheriff clients which included lights bars, strobes, siren, gun locks, PC docks, radio, vehicular repeater and more! He is the oldest son of Michael Deakins who is the founder and President of Valence. Jake has completed a course of electronics study through CIE (Cleveland Institute of Electronics) which is one of the oldest and most established institutions for the remote study of technology in the country. He is tower-climbing certified and has already been very instrumental in some of the larger and more recent projects Valence has completed. Jake’s previous experience includes 5 years of being a caretaker and manager for the Lighthouse International organization which provides care and oversight for at-risk boys who are wards of the State. This role taught him the core values and principles of patience, attention-to-detail and conflict-resolution. Jake is enthusiastic and is looking forward to developing his skills, abilities and education in our technologically advanced industry!
TOM SIEVERDING
GENERAL SALES MANAGER
Tom joined Valence in 2005. Prior to coming on board, Tom worked in sales management at two other communications companies in Spokane. Tom has around three decades of industry experience in the Land Mobile and Communications sectors. His knowledge and experience have contributed to the success of many of our customer's projects. Tom takes pride in taking care of the client and providing excellent customer service. Tom handles our rental department as well.
SARAH DEAKINS
ACCOUNTING SUPERVISOR / OWNER
Sarah is the Office Manager for Valence. Her past work experience includes being a member of the HR Department at Spokane Teachers Credit Union, and prior to that, hospital administration at Sacred Heart. Sarah assists with managing the day to day operations, invoicing, payroll and provides valuable support for the technical and sales staff members. She is always happy to assist our customers with a positive attitude and friendly demeanor!
RORY BOWMAN
SUPPORT SERVICES SUPERVISOR
Rory joined our staff in November 2010. Rory brings with her an avid desire to learn, attention to detail and a strong organizational ability. Rory's prior experience includes managing a small business location, supply requisitioning, overseeing other staff members as well as customer service. At Valence, Rory is responsible for answering all incoming phone traffic, sales staff support, invoicing, shipping and receiving as well as other mission-critical functions. Rory also works closely with the Office Manager and company management in support of other important administrative functions. She has a positive disposition and enjoys interacting with our customers.
PRESTON OLSEN
FIELD & INSTALLATION TECHNICIAN
Preston recently brought his numerous skills and capabilities to Valence’s arsenal in 2019. Preston’s ability to manage work quickly and accurately on various types of projects is second to none. Preston has excellent organizational and project-management skills. He manages Valence’s rental and demo fleet of equipment for the company. He completed an electronics
course through CIE after coming on board. Preston is a quick study and has adapted to our rapidly-changing environment and the plethora of new technologies and equipment. His positive and cheerful demeanor is contagious as is his willingness to take on greater challenges with each passing day.