Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (R-Jackson) is proud to announce Volcano Communications as Amador County’s 2026 Employer of the Year. This year’s recognition highlights employers that create quality jobs, drive economic vitality in rural communities, invest in innovation, and demonstrate a deep, long-term commitment to the people and places they serve.
“Volcano Communications is a shining example of what it means to be a true community employer and partner,” said Senator Alvarado-Gil. “For more than 120 years, this family-owned company has connected rural Amador County and the Central Sierra with cutting-edge technology while creating jobs, supporting local organizations, and showing up every day for the people who call this area home. Their story is one of legacy, innovation, and genuine investment in our communities.”
In 1949, the company was purchased by Jim and Janice Welch, parents of current owner Sharon Lundgren, along with co-investors Ted and Catherine Houck. Since then, Volcano Communications has remained family-owned and has expanded to meet the needs of rural residents and businesses:
- 1983 – Volcano Vision Cable TV Company was established.
- 1984 – Volcano Telecommunications was launched, providing business telephone systems and large PBX solutions.
- 1995 – Volcano Internet Provider began delivering high-speed broadband service.
The company has remained dedicated to bringing technologies to its rural service area that rival or exceed those available in metropolitan regions.
“It is an honor to have Volcano Communications recognized by Senator Alvarado-Gil as Amador County’s Employer of the Year. For more than 120 years, our family-owned company has grown alongside this community, evolving from a small telephone provider into a leader delivering modern, fiber optic broadband connectivity to rural areas. This recognition reflects the dedication of our team, the trust of generations of customers, and the strong partnerships we’ve built across Amador County and the Central Sierra. Serving this community through quality jobs and active local support has been deeply rewarding, and this honor truly belongs to everyone who has been part of that journey with us.”- Frank Leschinsky, Public Sector Manager, Volcano Communications:
Beyond its core services, Volcano Communications is a model corporate citizen. The company actively supports local schools, community events, small businesses, and organizations. It sponsors local teams, participates in fundraisers, and consistently “shows up” for the community. Members of its management team serve in key leadership roles on local boards, including the Amador Chamber of Commerce, Soroptimist International, Amador Fire Safe Council, and Motherlode Workforce Development.
Through its dedication to innovation, family values, reliable employment, and active community partnership, Volcano Communications continues to strengthen Amador County’s economic foundation and quality of life.