Our History
The Pioneers legacy is long and inspiring. It all began in 1911 with just 734 members (including Alexander Graham Bell). In the beginning, friendship and fellowship were what it was all about. Industry people recalling the facts, traditions, and memories of the early history of the telephone. But those who wrote the original Pioneers purpose were forward thinking in adding that it would also encourage "such other meritorious objects consistent with the foregoing as may be desirable." That became what would make the Pioneers different from other industry groups.
One of those "meritorious objects" translated into community service. Chapters, councils and clubs began their own initiatives, mostly working with children's groups. By 1958, community service was established as the Pioneers' "New Tradition". Today, the organization is the world's largest group of industry-specific employees and retirees dedicated to community service. Pioneers volunteer more than millions of hours annually responding to the individual needs of their communities.
Through good times, as well as demanding challenges, the spirit of service, the very hallmark of our industry, shines brightly within Pioneers and their good deeds. It is our tradition and it is our future.
Hal Burlingame, Past President
Pioneers Timeline
Fellowship is at the heart of Pioneering
Fellowship is at the heart of Pioneering
Telephone Pioneers of America was founded in Boston at a meeting at the Somerset Hotel.
Fellowship is at the heart of Pioneering
Fellowship is at the heart of Pioneering
Fellowship is at the heart of Pioneering
In the beginning, friendship and fellowship were what it was all about.
Angus Macdonald, The Spirit of Service
Fellowship is at the heart of Pioneering
Angus Macdonald, The Spirit of Service
The Pioneers love this painting as it so aptly embodies the group’s mission, vision and values.