News and Events

Dec. 20, 2016 – Sioux Falls, SD: An integral part of Midco since 1987, SVP and Chief of Staff Tom Simmons will retire from the company at the end of the year.

“As my career with Midco comes to a close, my gratitude to the company for providing so many opportunities in three major industries overshadows the sense of loss moving away from friends and associates who have become an extended family,” said Simmons.

During his illustrious career, Simmons held a number of different titles and led various initiatives. Most recently, he’s focused on public policy, public relations, public affairs and government relations. 

“Tom Simmons has been a great leader, team member, spokesperson and contributor for Midco for 29 years,” said Pat McAdaragh, Midco President and CEO. “He has also been a relentless advocate for the communities Midco serves, and especially for Sioux Falls. Tom came to the intersection in life where he is ready to retire from the workforce, but certainly not from being actively engaged in the community. We wish Tom, and his wife Mary, all the best as they transition into their next adventure.”

An ardent student of telecommunications and policy, Simmons provided testimony on a variety of issues before U.S. Congressional committees, the Federal Communications Commission, state legislatures and state utilities commissions.

Throughout his career, Simmons recognized the value of community involvement and leadership. He’s a Minnesota Cable Communications Association board member and a cornerstone member of the Greater North Dakota Chamber. In addition, he’s served as chairman of the Sioux Falls Development Foundation and as a council member on the Sioux Council Boy Scouts, Forward Sioux Falls, Mitchell Technical Institute SAC, the South Dakota Technical Institutes SWAC, the Volunteers of America – Dakotas and the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science. In 2013, Simmons was awarded the Distinguished Service Award at the North Central Cable Show, a regional gathering of cable television companies and suppliers serving the Upper Midwest.

Simmons said the timing of his retirement feels right.

“Stepping aside at the appropriate time to offer opportunities to others is one of the things that has contributed to the incredible heritage of this company, and it’s time for me to step aside,” said Simmons. “We have an incredible team of bright, gifted and passionate people who will expand the legacy of Midco beyond my imagination. It will be fun to watch them grow.”

Midco thanks Simmons for his three decades of service and wishes him the very best in retirement.