Home Hero Block
Upgrade Your Career at Cellular Advantage
Cellular Advantage credits our employees for helping us achieve our status as an authorized agent and elite performer for U.S. Cellular (now part of T-Mobile), and we continue to seek talented individuals who want to achieve lasting results with us. We are passionate about creating a fun, laid-back, and stimulating atmosphere for each of our team members centered around expertise in the latest wireless technology. Nearly all of our employees have spent several decades with our company and experienced tremendous growth in their careers. Explore job opportunities with us and learn about the benefits and company perks waiting for you. It’s time to upgrade your career!
Centered Text Block
Execute Boldly, Deliver with Excellence,
Win Together | Local Wireless Carrier Stores
At Cellular Advantage, we take care of our customers with all their wireless technology needs by offering smart phones, home internet, and more accessories for sale. With over 32 years in business across Iowa and Nebraska, our team is committed to leading with integrity and building personal relationships with our customers as we service their devices and internet. Our sales managers are passionate about what they do and have fun along the way, creating a unique shopping experience that is engaging for everyone in our stores.
Technology shouldn’t be frustrating. As an authorized agent and elite performer for U.S. Cellular (now part of T-Mobile), we don’t just meet expectations–we exceed them through our regional cellular device sales and high-speed home internet offerings
Home About Block
About Our Company and
People-First Culture
Cellular Advantage got its start as an authorized cellular agent for phones and other technology products from our first Des Moines store in 1993. Over the following decades, we expanded to several markets throughout Iowa and Nebraska selling the latest devices from national carriers. From the beginning, we’ve been passionate about delivering a different sales experience built on genuine relationships and a fun, engaged atmosphere. Read more about our story and core values.
Pink BG w/ Floating Text Box Block
Leading Performance Metrics as a Wireless Carrier Company
Cellular Advantage has been recognized as an Elite Performer by U.S. Cellular for 11 of the 12 years the program existed. We have been a regional and industry leader in cell phone sales from the beginning by combining work and play with our passion for the latest tech accessories and internet services. See more statistics about our achievements.
2/3 Text, 1/3 Images Block
Company Events for Continuous Development
While striving to meet performance goals and living out our core values, Cellular Advantage regularly hosts events and themes so we can have fun as we achieve them. We lead multi-day summits that encourage celebration, planning, and employee growth, along with strategic planning to learn about new product offerings and how to sell them.
When you become part of Cellular Advantage, we become invested in your development. Explore our past company themes and events along with our strategic planning initiatives.
Box w/ Left Image, Right Text Block
Top-Rated Wireless Consultants Across Iowa and Nebraska
Cellular Advantage loves to get involved with the local communities we serve. In 2024 alone, we were involved in 104 community events! We love sharing our expertise in the latest wireless carrier products while building personal connections to make technology rewarding and fun. Explore community events and read testimonials from our customers and partners about their experience with us.
Final CTA Block
Contact Us
Cellular Advantage is ready to grow alongside you as the world of wireless technology evolves. Reach out to our team today and see how we can help you achieve your goals whether you’re in need of product information and service or interested in learning more about working for us.
Footer Block
Anchor Block
2-Column Text Block
About Cellular Advantage
Wireless Carrier Stores Across Iowa and Nebraska
Cellular Advantage has proudly represented U.S. Cellular as an authorized agent since the opening of our first store in 1993. The company was founded by Mitzi and Doug Ecklund when Mitzi was offered the opportunity to open a store after achieving President’s Club status as a top sales representative with U.S. Cellular.
U.S. Cellular operated a kiosk in Southridge Mall in Des Moines, and this was the store that became the first Cellular Advantage location. The Ecklund’s developed a business plan that they shopped to multiple banks until they secured a loan of $35,000 for the start-up. Naturally, the money was spent right away, so they started filling out credit card applications to support the not-yet-existent cash flow. They were determined to work as hard as they could to keep the business afloat.
Unfortunately, they got to a point where their credit cards were maxed out and they weren’t able to get any more bank loans–but payroll was due. Cue the fire sale of Doug’s Jeep to keep the business going! Barely making ends meet was the reality for the first few years of business as they worked to survive and advance to the next month. In the meantime, they drove a Chrysler station wagon to get by.
Thankfully, the company began to turn a corner. Additional locations opened and more cellular carriers were added. Cellular Advantage began representing Sprint, Nextel, SunCom (now known as AT&T), and VoiceStream (now known as T-Mobile). This allowed us to offer a “one-stop shop” experience for our customers to compare top wireless providers in one store.
In 2002, U.S. Cellular was in the middle of acquiring PrimeCo and focusing on the Chicago market. They needed agent distribution and selected Cellular Advantage as one of four agents out of a pool of 400 to help with launching this market. We were required to become an exclusive authorized agent with U.S. Cellular as part of this agreement, and we needed to grow to a minimum of 25 locations with a geographical presence in four states over the next year.
In that timeframe, we expanded into Chicago, Missouri, and Nebraska. We added the St. Louis market a few years later. To make it through this growth period, we learned how to scale through keeping a strong back-office and timely, accurate data. We also developed our company purpose, core values, and brand promise.
We stay true to what we have learned over the last 32 years in business: prioritize our customers, lead with integrity, and don’t be afraid to take chances and try new things.
4-Card w/Numbers Block
Our Core Values
We currently operate 35 wireless retail locations across Iowa and Nebraska. With a team of over 120 employees, we’re committed to delivering exceptional wireless solutions through our people-first culture.
We believe our success starts with our employees. That’s why we invest in continuous training, support, and development, empowering our teams to perform at their best both in-store and at home. When our employees feel valued, our customers receive an experience that goes beyond expectations.
Every guest who walks through our doors matters–and so does the trust of the carriers we represent. Our brand promise to them has been simple: your targets are our guarantees. We perform at the highest level, knowing that when we deliver results, we receive more opportunities to grow, serve, and lead.
Our purpose is to enrich the lives of our employees and customers at each interaction through selling and servicing the latest wireless smart phones, home internet, and accessories. At Cellular Advantage, we don’t just meet expectations–we exceed them through each of our four core values.
Encourage and Respect Individual Initiative and Creativity:
The strength of our company comes from being humble and recognizing that we don’t have everything figured out. We remain open to learning better ways of doing things.
First Understand, Then Be Understood:
People want to be heard and valued. If we do a good job listening, it creates a better experience for everyone and provides more opportunities for effective solutions.
Achieve Excellence in Reputation by Exceeding the Expectations of Our Customers and Our Team at Each Interaction:
The strength of our company comes from being humble and recognizing that we don’t have everything figured out. We remain open to learning better ways of doing things.
Have Fun!
We want our guests to have fun while visiting our stores. Our team is engaging, interesting, and fun to spend time with and brings these traits to the customer experience. We want our stores to feel different from the normal shopping experience.
Team Bios Block
Doug Ecklund, President & CEO-32 Years of Experience
As the president and CEO of Cellular Advantage, Doug began his journey in 1993 with a bold vision to build something from the ground up. What started as a small operation has evolved into a high-performing, people-first organization rooted in purpose, resilience, and clear strategy for long-term success.
For over three decades, Doug has led the company through growth, transformation, and reinvention with an unwavering commitment to its people. He believes that sustainable success goes beyond metrics–it’s about empowering individuals. From the leadership team to the frontline associates and valued partners, Dough has made it his mission to support, elevate, and equip those around him to thrive.
As CEO, his role is to clear the path for others to lead–evaluating opportunities, offering strategic insight, and serving as a trusted sounding board. He leads with intention, embraces challenges, and surrounds himself with people who are committed to continuous improvement and excellence.
Todd Lawton, Vice President & COO-32 Years of Experience
Todd serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Cellular Advantage and brings over three decades of hands-on experience to the role. His journey with the company began in 1993 shortly after graduating from the University of Northern Iowa when he started selling phones at a mall kiosk opened by Mitzi and Doug.
Over the past 32 years, Todd has held nearly every position at Cellular Advantage from selling pagers to working in human resources, IT, inventory management, and many more roles in between. This extensive experience provided him with a comprehensive understanding of company operations and enabled him to support the business across a wide range of functions.
Today, his primary responsibility is managing Cellular Advantage’s retail store locations whether they operate on leased or company-owned property.
Matt Hayertz, Treasurer & CFO–21 Years of Experience
Matt is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with over 30 years of experience. For the past 21 years, he has served as the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Cellular Advantage. Prior to joining the company, he provided audit and consulting services for Deloitte, one of the “Big 4” international accounting firms.
At Cellular Advantage, he oversees all back-office functions including accounting, finance, treasury management, human resources, risk management, taxes, and acquisitions.
Over the years, his team has supported up to 40 stores across four states. Matt leads with a transparent, simple, and accountable approach. He takes great pride in providing strategic direction for the company and top-notch support to every store and employee.
Nick Villoti, Vice President of Sales–24 Years of Experience
With over 25 years of experience at Cellular Advantage, Nick began his career as a B2B sales representative and has grown into a senior leadership role through a consistent track record of results, operational excellence, and team development across multiple states.
Recognized as a strategic thinker and culture builder, Nick is known for casting vision and creating high-performing, people-centered environments rooted in servant leadership. His passion for personal and professional growth led to the development of the company’s signature “9 A.M. Meeting” program, which connects individual goals with team performance objectives.
As Vice President of Sales, Nick has led Cellular Advantage’s top-performing sales and store operations teams–driving significant revenue growth and market expansion. Under his leadership, Cellular Advantage achieved distinction as U.S. Cellular’s #1 per-door revenue producer.
Chuck Richmond, Director of Sales–24 Years of Experience
Chuck has been a dedicated member of the Cellular Advantage leadership team for over 24 years and brings a wealth of experience and steadfast commitment to excellence across Central Iowa. For more than a decade, he has served as Director of Sales and Operations, where he plays a pivotal role in leading store performance, developing high-impact teams, and driving operational success throughout the region.
Chuck’s journey with Cellular Advantage began on the frontline where he managed multiple locations in Des Moines and the surrounding communities. In his current role, Chuck oversees nine locations, having previously led 16. He partners closely with store managers, fellow directors, and frontline wireless consultants to ensure every location is equipped to exceed performance goals and deliver exceptional customer experiences.
Known for his hands-on leadership style, Chuck is a strategic coach and collaborator who champions the growth of his people and long term-success of the business.
Chuck Richmond, Director of Sales–24 Years of Experience
Chuck has been a dedicated member of the Cellular Advantage leadership team for over 24 years and brings a wealth of experience and steadfast commitment to excellence across Central Iowa. For more than a decade, he has served as Director of Sales and Operations, where he plays a pivotal role in leading store performance, developing high-impact teams, and driving operational success throughout the region.
Chuck’s journey with Cellular Advantage began on the frontline where he managed multiple locations in Des Moines and the surrounding communities. In his current role, Chuck oversees nine locations, having previously led 16. He partners closely with store managers, fellow directors, and frontline wireless consultants to ensure every location is equipped to exceed performance goals and deliver exceptional customer experiences.
Known for his hands-on leadership style, Chuck is a strategic coach and collaborator who champions the growth of his people and long term-success of the business.
1/2 Text, 1/2 Form Block
Submit an Application
To explore job opportunities at Cellular Advantage, we invite you to connect with our team by expressing interest through the form below. This general application will help us get to know you and your goals and determine what positions might be a good fit for you. We will follow up with you to discuss more details about our culture and hiring process. Thank you for your interest!
Career form
1/3 Text, 2/3 Accordion Block
Meet Our Leadership Team
At Cellular Advantage, we’re proud of our employee tenure and have helped many of our employees advance into leadership roles and upper management positions. Our leaders are passionate about mentoring their teams and helping others experience similar growth. Get to know some of our long-standing team members and learn more about our company.
With over 25 years of experience at Cellular Advantage, Nick began his career as a B2B sales representative and has grown into a senior leadership role through a consistent track record of results, operational excellence, and team development across multiple states.
With over 25 years of experience at Cellular Advantage, Nick began his career as a B2B sales representative and has grown into a senior leadership role through a consistent track record of results, operational excellence, and team development across multiple states.
With over 25 years of experience at Cellular Advantage, Nick began his career as a B2B sales representative and has grown into a senior leadership role through a consistent track record of results, operational excellence, and team development across multiple states.
With over 25 years of experience at Cellular Advantage, Nick began his career as a B2B sales representative and has grown into a senior leadership role through a consistent track record of results, operational excellence, and team development across multiple states.
1/2 Text, 1/2 Sidebar Block
U.S. Cellular Elite Performers Program
With over 32 years of experience in the wireless sales industry, Cellular Advantage is proud to lead the way as a top-performing carrier for several of the biggest cellular companies. An especially notable example of this was our distinction as an Elite Performer with U.S. Cellular.
Each year, U.S. Cellular recognized a handful of top-performing agents. These agents attract new customers, find creative ways to increase revenue, and have a passion for associate development and operational excellence.
The Elite Performers program was an initiative designed to recognize excellence in the wireless agent community, but the program was not for everyone. The Elite Performer status was reserved for exclusive agents who performed at the highest levels across a variety of metrics.
Cellular Advantage is proud to be recognized as an Elite Performer for 11 out of the 12 years the program existed.
Common characteristics of an Elite Performer as defined by U.S. Cellular include the following:
- Quick to embrace the most recent promotions, products, and services
- Laser-like focus on sales and business development, including Business in Retail
- Immersed in local communities and quick to sponsor events
- Innovators who create new ways to service customers and offer products
- Committed to operational excellence
Cellular Advantage has also been recognized as the top performing agent leading the way in high-speed internet sales, add-a-line attachments, Business in Retail sales, and Device Protection+ attachments. We are able to create a level of separation that is unmatched thanks to our creative, hard-working, and determined sales leaders and teams.
1/3 Image, 2/3 Text Block
A State Fair Tradition: More Than Two Decades at the Iowa State Fair
For the past 27 years, Cellular Advantage has been a proud vendor at the Iowa State Fair. It’s become a summer tradition where we don’t just set up shop, we show up strong. Our tent has become a familiar destination for long-time customers who return year after year to upgrade their devices, explore new technology, and reconnect with the friendly faces they know and trust.
A customer base of about 1,700 attendees plan their visit around a stop at our tent, and we plan every detail to deliver results, relationships, and a whole lot of Iowa pride!
Customer Reviews Block
Customer Reviews
Cellular Advantage is proud to make a difference across our local communities across Iowa and Nebraska. With an impressive 4.6 average Google rating across our 35 retail locations, we are committed to delivering exceptional service. This achievement reflects our dedication to creating meaningful connections with every guest.
Our team goes beyond transactions–we strive to truly see and understand each individual, listen to their needs, and provide tailored solutions that enhance their experience with technology. It’s not just about service or sales–it’s about living out our purpose.
See what some of our satisfied customers said about their experience in our stores.
Vendor & Partner Testimonials Block
Vendor and Partner Testimonials
We’ve built strong partnerships with leading vendors and businesses to drive success and enhance the customer experience. By leveraging these connections, we stay ahead of industry trends, offer top-quality products, and create exclusive opportunities that fuel sales growth. Our collaborative approach allows us to adapt quickly, deliver value to our guests, and maintain momentum in an ever-evolving market.
Hear from some of our partners about their experience working with us.
“The entire Cellular Advantage TEAM is great to work with. They have exceptional communication skills and truly care about each other, their customers, and their vendor partners. No secrets as to why they are successful! They have a tenured, professional staff throughout the organization that is committed to giving it their all, which makes it a contagious, fun environment. I wish all my ‘partners’ made it this easy and FUN!”
-Brian Rosch, Director of Strategic Accounts, Gadget Guard
“Working with Cellular Advantage has been a rewarding experience. Their industry expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction consistently deliver[s] strong results. What sets them apart is a people-first culture that prioritizes connection, service, and innovation.”
“Leadership fosters growth and empower[s] their team, creating a positive environment that translates into exceptional customer experiences and business outcomes. Cellular Advantage is a stand-out partner in the wireless industry–driven, supportive, and committed to excellence.”
-Sanborn Darling, Regional Account Manager, Asurio
“We’ve had the privilege of partnering with Cellular Advantage for over 23 years. Throughout this time, their leadership team has remained consistent, effectively guiding their employees while fostering a culture where every team member feels valued and has opportunities for growth.”
“Our banking relationship with Cellular Advantage includes a line of credit, term loans, and deposit accounts, alongside several of our treasury management services. They have consistently demonstrated prompt loan payments, sound business decisions, and a commitment to providing GreenState with timely financial reporting.”
“Their balance sheet reflects steady growth and an ability to capitalize on new opportunities. The management team also has the foresight and expertise to make adjustments when necessary, ensuring the company’s financial health remains robust. GreenState deeply values our partnership with Cellular Advantage, and we look forward to continuing and expanding this strong relationship.”
-Cathy Jones, VP of Treasury Management, GreenState Credit Union
Word Feature Block
Discovering What Creates Top Sales and Growth
What is “it”? To define the essence of top-tier leadership and sales performance that make Cellular Advantage so successful, we conducted an internal word experiment. We began by identifying the individuals from executive leadership and our frontline sales teams who consistently exemplified excellence, influence, and results.
We then collected the words and phrases our team used to describe these stand-out individuals—the traits, behaviors, and characteristics that make them truly effective. Through group reflection and collaborative analysis, we narrowed down these observations into a refined list of eight core words:
Grit
infectious
Elevate
integrityt
Visionary
culture
momentum
Accountability
These words don’t just describe who we admire–they serve as a benchmark for how we hire, develop, and grow our team. They represent what “great” looks like at our company.