Surf Internet Strengthens Leadership with CIO Role Transition and New VP of Network Engineering

ELKHART, Ind. (October 22, 2024)—Surf Internet® is pleased to announce Patrick Wheeland’s transition to the newly created role of Chief Information Officer (CIO) and the addition of Chad Burgh as Vice President of Network Engineering.

Patrick Wheeland, a 23-year veteran with Surf, most recently served as Chief Technology Officer and has now accepted the role of CIO. In this new position, he will lead the company’s data, systems, and IT operations. His responsibilities include overseeing technology strategy, infrastructure management, data security, and systems development to support operational excellence and business growth. Wheeland will continue to be an integral part of Surf’s leadership team, helping to guide the company’s technology strategy.

Joining the team is Chad Burgh, who has been appointed as the Vice President of Network Engineering and will lead Surf’s Network Engineering and Network Operations Center (NOC) teams. With more than two decades of experience in network engineering and leadership, including roles at Comcast, Verizon, and the United States Marine Corps, Burgh brings extensive expertise in network reliability, cloud management, and process improvement. His leadership will be instrumental in Surf’s ongoing network enhancements and expansion.

“We’re thrilled to have Chad join our leadership team and are confident that Patrick’s transition to CIO will help us continue to deliver excellent service,” said Surf Internet CEO Gene Crusie. “Their combined expertise will ensure Surf’s infrastructure and network remain future-ready as we expand our services and deliver the best possible experience to our customers.”

About Surf Internet
Surf Internet is an innovative fiber-optic internet company that serves as the essential gateway to connectivity across the Great Lakes region of Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. The company is building a bridge to the wide-open future by delivering high-speed, reliable internet to homes and businesses in underserved, rural communities. Surf’s 250-plus-person team is local, giving them an edge when it comes to customer care and advocacy for the region. Headquartered in Elkhart, Ind., Surf also has offices in La Porte, Ind., Byron Center and Fowlerville, Mich., and Coal City, Naperville, and Rock Falls, Ill. Learn more at https://surfinternet.com.