Ascend Technologies Acquires Switchfast Technologies to Expand IT Offerings

Share

Chicago, IL May 4, 2021

Ascend Technologies, LLC a prominent Midwest IT solution provider, today announced the acquisition of Switchfast Technologies, a leading firm specializing in tailored IT managed and consulting services.

Ascend Technologies continues to execute on its strategic vision to become a leader in the Chicago area with its acquisition of Switchfast Technologies. With robust IT offerings, Switchfast’s team has provided customized IT guidance and services for organizations since 2001, receiving several awards and recognitions along the way.

This marks the fourth acquisition for Ascend since December of 2019 with the partnership of M/C Partners, a private equity firm.

“Ascend continues to focus on innovation and technology that will enable our clients’ growth and success,” said Wayne Kiphart, CEO, Ascend. “The acquisition of Switchfast allows us to continue that mission with the expansion of service offerings and expert support. We are excited to welcome Switchfast’s entire team of talented individuals to our Ascend family,” continued Kiphart.

 

“Ascend shares our focus on improving business productivity through IT innovation and our passion for delivering exceptional client service,” said Jim Anderson, CEO, Switchfast Technologies. “We are thrilled to bring our combined capabilities to the market,” said Anderson.

The combined organizations will have over 240 U.S.-based professionals and offices in Chicago, Illinois and Lincoln, Nebraska.

Media Inquiries | Heidi Knudsen | hknudsen@teamascend.com | +1 402-807-1337
Sales Inquiries | Dana Bailey | dbailey@teamascend.com | +1 312-568-2503

ABOUT ASCEND TECHNOLOGIES

Ascend Technologies is a far cry from your run-of-the-mill managed services provider. Our team of over 240 U.S.-based information technology professionals enable business growth through innovation and technology. Ascend helps business leaders make IT investments with confidence, eliminate cybersecurity threats, meet the needs of the business, and optimize user productivity. Businesses endure, grow, and innovate on a foundation of efficiently run core IT systems. Ascend makes technology the catalyst for business expansion. For more information, visit https://teamascend.com.

ABOUT SWITCHFAST TECHNOLOGIES

Switchfast Technologies is a leading IT Managed Services Provider (MSP) serving America’s successful SMBs. Switchfast’s clients understand that a true IT partner goes beyond the break/fix model and provides long-term solutions to business challenges and goals. Switchfast ensures investment in information technology provides the maximum ROI to its stakeholders through IT roadmapping, planning and strategy. With one of the highest client satisfaction rates in the industry and the data, referrals and accolades to prove it, Switchfast Technologies builds lasting and trusted relationships. For more information, visit https://switchfast.com.

ORIGINAL SOURCE:
https://content.teamascend.com/ascend-switchfast-acquisition?utm_campaign=2021%20Ascend%20%7C%20Switchfast&utm_content=164999823&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&hss_channel=lis-9uzq0bLJLV

Zack Halpryn

Zack Halpryn is an Associate at M|C Partners, where he focuses on investment opportunities in the digital infrastructure and technology services sectors. Prior to joining MC, Zack worked at HarbourVest Partners, where he was focused on buyout and growth equity investments. Previously he worked at Performance Equity Management and Credit Suisse. Zack received a B.B.A in Finance (summa cum laude) from the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst. He currently lives in Boston’s West End and in his spare time enjoys playing sports (volleyball, basketball, golf), reading and watching the Celtics.

Joined

2023

AFFILIATED PORTFOLIO

Ascend Technologies
Carbon60
Denovo
TowerCom

Contact

BOARD POSITIONS

celito

Established in 1999 and based in Raleigh, is a trusted, local communications and managed services provider to businesses leveraging its fully owned fiber network. celito creates technology solutions for businesses across all sectors both large and small. From supplying high-speed Internet service, to providing quality VoIP telecom service, to setting up your office network, they offer turnkey solutions from the desktop to the cloud

 

TEAM MEMBERS

SECTOR

Jason P. Stutman

Jason Stutman is a Senior Fund Accountant at M/C Partners, responsible for the cash management of co-investment vehicles, preparing quarterly financial statements, and communication with Limited Partners. Prior to joining the firm in 2023, Jason worked in the Portfolio Analytics Group at HarbourVest Partners. He earned a BSBA with honors in Finance with a minor in Computer Information Science from The Ohio State University. Jason lives in South Boston and enjoys cheering on Boston sports teams, playing hockey and golf and traveling.

Joined

2023

AFFILIATED PORTFOLIO

Contact

BOARD POSITIONS

Cuba Burch Berner

Cuba Burch Berner is an Associate at M|C Partners, where he focuses on investment opportunities in digital infrastructure and technology services. Prior to joining the firm in 2022, Cuba was an Equity Research Associate at Citi covering infrastructure companies within the telecommunications industry, including data centers and wireless towers. He holds a B.S. in Mathematics with a specialization in Economics from the University of Chicago. Cuba currently lives in Boston’s West End and enjoys  a myriad of outdoor activities including running, swimming, hiking, and skiing.

Joined

2022

Contact

AFFILIATED PORTFOLIO

Ascend Technologies
Consortium Networks
C3 Integrated Solutions
SoniqWave

 

AccentHealth

AccentHealth operates an out-of-home advertising network that reaches over 12,000 physician office waiting areas in the U.S. – JOHN WATKINS

TEAM MEMBERS

SECTOR

IT SERVICES

James F. Wade

Jim Wade co-founded M/C Partners in 1986 with Dave Croll. He has been investing in communications and technology services since the advent of wireless and broadband, cornerstones of the firm’s sector focus. As Chairman, he manages the firm’s investment process, and continuously seeks out management teams, company prospects and financial resources to grow the portfolio. Jim’s successful track record includes MetroPCS (IPO), Lightower Holdings (acquired by Berkshire Partners), Cavalier Telephone (acquired by PAETEC), NuVox Communications (acquired by WindStream), Attenda (acquired by Darwin Private Equity), Melita (acquired by Apax Partners), PR Wireless (joint venture with Sprint affiliate in Puerto Rico), Thrive Networks (acquired/recapitalized by Court Square) and Involta (acquired by Carlyle Group). Today he serves as a director on the Board of Connectivity Wireless and has responsibility for Omega Wireless. Jim graduated from the University of Notre Dame a B.B.A in Finance and received an MBA from Harvard Business School. He lives outside Boston with his wife and four children. Jim was an avid boater and is now an average golfer.

JOINED

1986

Contact

BOARD POSITIONS
Connectivity Wireless

 

Abhishek Rampuria

Abhishek (A.B.) is a Partner at M/C Partners, where he leads origination, deal diligence and portfolio company support for investments in a variety of communications and technology services segments. He currently serves on the Board of Ascend Technologies, Connectivity Wireless, Edafio Technology Partners, TowerCom and serves as a Board Observer for Thrive Networks. A.B. previously served as a Board Observer for Ensono (acquired by KKR) and QOS Networks (acquired by Zayo). Prior to joining M/C Partners in 2015, A.B. worked at Altman Solon (formerly Altman Vilandrie), a technology, media & telecommunications focused strategy consulting firm, where he completed projects for both operating companies and private equity investors. A.B. received a B.S. in Materials Science & Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He lives in Boston’s South End and outside of work, enjoys skiing, cycling, traveling and cheering on his home-town Patriots and Celtics.

Joined

2015

AFFILIATED PORTFOLIO

Thrive Networks

Contact

BOARD POSITIONS

Ascend Technologies
Connectivity Wireless
Edafio Technology Partners
TowerCom