Beale lodging upgrades internet capabilities

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Robert M. Trujillo
  • 9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs
The Gold Country Inn is in the process of completing its 1.5 million dollar upgrade to boost Internet performance throughout lodging facilities base wide early May.

The 9th Force Support Squadron lodging office saw the need for the upgrade from customer feedback and comment cards.

"It was the number one issue customers relayed to us about their stay," said Suzanne Daily, general manager of the Gold Country Inn. "Most of our guests live a very technological life with smart phones, laptops, tablets and other electronic devices, so
getting a fast and reliable internet system became a top priority."

The new system will upgrade lodgings facilities with high-speed internet connections and Wi-Fi capabilities.

"This is something that we've needed for a long time," said Daily. "You can't tell a military person they can't Skype with their loved ones."

Prior to the upgrade, the system was very problematic and would lose connection regularly.

"With the system that was in place I was surprised that anyone could get online," said Heath King, a Sunrise Network Solutions technician. "The upgrades and new features we've added dramatically increase the internet user's overall experience."

One of those new features is a faster turnaround for potential problems. Minor problems can be identified and resolved in less than 24 hours and major problems within 48 hours.

"It seemed like we'd have to rest the system every other day and sometimes that didn't fix the problem," said Mike Austin, maintenance supervisor for the Gold Country Inn. "But now if a problem arises it can be assessed and taken care of in no time."

The lodging office saw immediate results from the upgrade when it was first installed in half of the Air Force Combat Ammunition Center dorms.

"That same day, they really saw a difference and the other half of the dorms couldn't wait to try it out," said Daily.

The lodging office is always searching for new ways to improve overall customer satisfaction and has plans to enhance the phone and cable networks.

"Guests sometimes stay with us for awhile, so being able to provide some of the comforts of home hopefully makes their stay that much nicer," said Austin.


Editor's note: This is part one of a three part series on Beale lodging quality of life upgrades.