TOUGH TOWER CLIMBERS John Martinez, at left, and Michael Flynn won the competition’s top prize on Sunday, as well as sharing $7,500 for displaying their skill and industry knowledge. Both climbers have 12 years of experience in the industry.
The 2025 Tough Tower competition brought together seven teams of elite tower climbers from across the country last weekend in North Jackson, OH, each aiming to take the top spot—and a significant cash prize—in an event focused on safety, skills, and careers in the telecommunications industry.
Preliminary challenges took place on June 5, with semifinal and final rounds on June 6 to declare the ultimate winner, which was Verità Telecommunications Corporation, based in Plymouth, MI.
The company earned the championship title and a $7,500 grand prize—along with premium harnesses from event sponsor FallTech—thanks to the standout performance of team members John Martinez and Michael Flynn.
Elevated Services in Carrollton, OH, secured second place due to a strong showing by Chris Pierce and Steven Kirsch. FordCom Wireless in East Palestine, OH, and its talented team, led by Frankie Newman and Chris Smith, rounded out the winners’ podium for third place.
Also competing in the event were Siarhei Rushnyski and Dzmitry Lebedz of Tech Construction of Huntingdon Valley, PA; Mike Bryson and his son Cole of American Power Tower of Ashtabula, OH, who returned for their second competition after winning the third place prize last year; and Rodney Wozab and Michael Downward of Liberty from West Jordan, UT, who also returned for their second year of competition.
Curtis Robinson and Ryan Salisbury of SBA Communications in Boca Raton, FL, gave a spirited effort to place in the event. Last year, the first-place winners were Joe Hayes and Ethan Preston of SBA.
Tri-County Tower and STG Communication Services co-founded the annual event.
“Tough Tower is about honoring the people who make this industry work from the ground up,” said Chris Thomas of Tri-County Tower. “These teams showcased the kind of craftsmanship, endurance, and respect for safety that this field demands every day.”
All three winning teams also took home prize packs from NATE: The Communication Infrastructure Contractors Association, one of Tough Tower’s top sponsors.
“The NATE organization is thrilled to be part of this event because it highlights tower technicians – their competencies, their skillsets – it highlights the workforce that keeps all industries running smoothly,” said NATE board member Jessica Cobb.
In addition to the main event, attendees participated in hands-on demonstrations and networking with vendors and sponsors.
“As the dust settles on this year’s challenge, one thing is clear: the bar has been raised,” said Mark Muzzana of STG Communication Services. “Congratulations to all competitors—and especially to our winners—for setting the standard of excellence in tower climbing.”