Press room

Eden Prairie, Minnesota (October 1, 2024) – Starkey is proud to announce that Jeff Solum, Wireless Systems Architect, has been honored with the 2024 Working Group Leadership Award from Bluetooth. This award recognizes exceptional contributions and leadership in advancing Bluetooth technology within its global community of over 40,000 members.

As the chair of the Bluetooth Hearing Aid Working Group, Solum has played a pivotal role in driving innovation and collaboration within the field of wireless hearing solutions. His leadership has been instrumental in the implementation of LE Audio Auracas™, a revolutionary Bluetooth technology that enables advanced broadcasting features for hearing aids. Auracast™ broadcast audio allows users to experience seamless wireless audio streaming from public venues, televisions, and smartphones, further enhancing accessibility for people with hearing difficulties.

“Jeff’s leadership reflects Starkey’s commitment to advancing hearing technology and ensuring our solutions remain at the forefront of innovation,” said Achin Bhowmik, Ph.D., Chief Technology Officer and Executive Vice President of Engineering at Starkey. “Starkey is not just building hearing aids for today, but we are paving the way for the future of connected hearing health. Jeff’s contributions to technologies like Auracast™ exemplify the pioneering spirit that drives our company forward."

Bluetooth Working Groups are the backbone of the organization's technical and strategic development, responsible for shaping the future of wireless technology across diverse industries. Each year, Bluetooth recognizes standout leaders whose efforts significantly impact wireless development, and this year, Jeff Solum stands at the forefront.

For more information on Starkey, please visit Starkey.com.

About Starkey
Starkey is a privately held, global hearing technology company headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Founded by Bill Austin in 1967, Starkey is known for its innovative design, development, and distribution of comprehensive digital hearing systems. Led today by President and CEO Brandon Sawalich, Starkey is the only American-owned provider of hearing technologies. The company has more than 5,000 employees, operates 29 facilities and does business in more than 100 markets worldwide. Learn more at starkey.com.