Our Team

Our Story

Founded in 1993 with a pioneering spirit, our telecommunications company is reshaping how the world connects. Our story has been one of constant evolution, driven by the belief that connectivity is more than just technology—it’s about bringing people, ideas, and possibilities together.

With a legacy spanning three decades, we’re excited to continue shaping the future of communication and connecting the world in innovative ways. Join us as we work to keep companies online, all the time.

Meet Our Executive Team

Aaron Holtz

CEO

Having been with CNI for 25-plus years, Aaron has been at the forefront of shaping our company’s technological landscape. He has consistently pushed the boundaries of what telecommunications can achieve, ushering in new eras of technological advancement with confidence all while maintaining a strong commitment to customer satisfaction.

As CEO, Aaron brings extensive knowledge of the telecommunications industry and a drive for research and development of next-generation solutions ensuring CNI’s commitment to helping our customers stay online, all the time.

Fun fact: Aaron is the other co-owner of Municipal Brew Works with CNI team member, David Frey. Municipal Brew Works has a taproom and distributes in the Cincinnati and Lima areas.

David Frey

COO/CFO

David, our Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, stands at the heart of our strategic operations and financial team. With over 25 years at CNI and an exceptional track record in overseeing complex operations, David brings a wealth of experience and insight to the team.

From optimizing processes to implementing forward-thinking financial strategies, he’s dedicated to ensuring our company’s sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving industry. Thanks to David’s guidance and desire to make a difference, we’re not just meeting the challenges of today’s telecommunications landscape—we’re shaping it.

Fun fact: David also co-owns a brewery—Municipal Brew Works. When outside of the office, he loves spending time with his family and five grandchildren. David’s youngest daughter was also just named CFO for the company she works for, making her a third-generation CFO.

Nathan Zehringer

CRO

With a strategic mind and a results-oriented approach, Nathan forges new avenues for success and maximizes CNI’s market potential. Nathan has consistently demonstrated his passion for identifying untapped opportunities and cultivating strong customer relationships.

Nathan loves working closely with our teams to develop tailored solutions that meet our customer’s needs and drive our company’s financial growth. His commitment to excellence and innovation has played an instrumental role in shaping CNI’s long-term success.

Fun fact: Nathan enjoys golf, fishing, comedy, political science, and being the life of the party.

Emily Karr

General Counsel & Chief Strategy Officer

In her role on the executive team, Emily focuses on maintaining the highest standards of legal integrity. Her strategic insights and background in everything from commercial transactions and regulatory compliance to governance and information technology benefit our team and customers. Emily helps ensure we are positioned to continue keeping you online, all the time, for years to come.

Fun fact: in her free time, Emily enjoys hiking, gardening, and generally being outdoors.

Meet Our Department Leaders

Donna Blanton

Director of Human Resources
& Call Center Operations

Donna has been with CNI since 2000, providing guidance and support to our HR and Call Center Support for the last 24+ years. Known for her reliability and adaptability, she’s dedicated to creating an inclusive and productive workplace for everyone on our team. Donna’s proactive approach ensures smooth operations and exceptional client service, aligning with CNI’s mission to keep businesses connected at all times.

Fun fact: Donna loves kayaking, traveling, and creating memories with her family.

Nic Botkin

Director of Operations

With 20 years at CNI, Nic has worked in Service Fulfillment, Network Operations, and Call Center Support, which has given him a broader perspective on the needs of our customers. Keeping everyone online, all the time is more than a saying. 24/7 support is the “why” behind everything Nic does every day

Fun fact: Nic enjoys golfing, bowling, and spending time at home with his wife and three children.

Christopher Eilerman

Call Center Manager

With nearly 22 years of experience, Christopher has honed his skills both in technical expertise and in creating a more efficient working environment at CNI. Known for his patience, friendliness, and thoroughness, he ensures our call center operates 24/7, 365 days a year, providing a safe, high-quality experience for all customers.

Fun fact: Christopher enjoys home improvement projects and spending time with his wife and three children.

Cory Haessler

Director of Network Operations

With 16 years in the telecom industry, Cory brings a comprehensive understanding of Network Operations to CNI. His broad exposure to telecom and technology trends help our team navigate industry shifts and maintain a high level of service. He’s known for his systematic approach, ensuring he fully understands your problem before offering a solution.

Fun fact: Cory enjoys off-roading, boating, camping, and family time, especially at his sons’ soccer and wrestling matches.

Rusty “Russ” Nartker

Director of Sales

As Director of Sales at CNI, everything Russ does comes down to relationships. It’s that idea of being a small company with a big reach that enables the entire sales team to spend time with our current and future customers—ensuring our services keep them online today and poised for growth tomorrow.

Fun fact: Outside of work, Russ is an avid boater and camper, loves attending concerts, and has an impressive collection of over 450 pairs of sneakers.

Matt Salzmann

Director of Construction

Since joining CNI, Matt has always led with curiosity and a commitment to clear communication. In the construction world, there’s always more than one solution to a problem. Matt prioritizes collaborating with our team as the firm foundation that ensures safe, high-quality service for our customers.

Fun fact: Matt and his wife Leah, along with their daughter Remy, enjoy volunteering in their community, attending church in Celina, OH, and are avid fans of the Ohio State Buckeyes, Cincinnati Bengals, and Reds.

Erika Schoenlein

Controller

Since joining CNI in 2015, Erika’s role behind the scenes in our financial office has moved our business forward. Known for her organization, analytical skills, and readiness to help, she’s a great representation of our commitment to be a local company who cares deeply for its people, customers, and community.

Fun fact: Erika loves spending time with her family, traveling, camping, and swimming.

Matt Shaffer

Director of Technology Infrastructure

With 25 years of experience at CNI, Matt Shaffer is a dedicated and versatile leader. Known at CNI for creating practical solutions to complex problems, he embodies the mantra that “technology should always help you run your business, not get in the way of doing business.”

Fun fact: Matt enjoys traveling, hiking, and playing competitive sports with his family.

Board of Directors

Nate Brickner

PRESIDENT

CEO/GM of Bascom Communications

Mike Boley

VICE PRESIDENT

President/CEO of Wabash Mutual Telephone

Cheryl Bostelman

SECRETARY

GM of Farmers Mutual Telephone

Dave Hunt

TREASURER

GM of Kalida Telephone and Glandorf FI-OPTICS

Preston Meyer

President/GM of NKTelco

Dave Gobrogge

GM of Ridgeville Telephone

Jason Neumeier

CTO, Hanson Communications/TSC

Interested in Joining Our Team?

CNI is always interested in adding dedicated, passionate team members to our staff. If you want to shift your career to CNI, check out our current openings.

Experience Greater Productivity

From fiber internet to our Network Operations Center (NOC), our suite of telecom services are designed with you in mind.