A fresh perspective in telecoms, in an evolving technology landscape

About Me, Excalibur Networks, and the Future of Telecoms

Who I Am

My name is Rhys Howitt, and I’m the director of Excalibur Networks. My journey into telecoms was influenced early on by my father, who worked as a BT engineer for most of my childhood. I didn’t grow up around tools and exchanges, but I always knew he took his work seriously - and that reputation meant everything.

As I progressed in my own career in telecoms, I began meeting people in the industry who knew my dad. They’d tell me stories about the work he did, the help he gave others, and the respect he earned. That left a lasting impression on me: in telecoms, your reputation follows you. You don’t just build networks - you build trust. And people remember whether you did it right.

This industry may seem massive, but it’s a small world. People talk. Word spreads. And whether you’re on a big contract or a small job, your work ethic, quality, and attitude speak for themselves. That’s the mindset I’ve carried into every role — and the standard I’ve built Excalibur Networks on.

From Apprentice to Engineer

I started my career as an apprentice engineer learning the ropes the hard way - hands-on installs, cabling, system setups, and customer work ranging from NHS trusts to government departments. It gave me a real-world education in doing things properly.

I moved on to working as a network splicer on major contracts for Hyperoptic, VM, H3G and Vodafone to name a few. I gained practical experience splicing circuits for 5G infrastructure, testing across BT exchanges, and delivering high-speed networks in tough environments. From there, I joined Hyperoptic full-time, progressing from Lead Fibre Installation Engineer to a Fibre Repair SME. I handled complex faults, trained new engineers, and dealt with everything from damaged joints to major GPON outages.

Those years taught me not just the technical side of the job - but also the pressure, the standards, and the need for solid systems to back up good engineers.

Why I Started Excalibur Networks

In April 2023, I founded Excalibur Networks to take everything I’d learned - both the good and the frustrating - and turn it into something better.

We specialise in:

• FTTH and PON builds

• Fibre and copper repair and testing

• Fibre Optic Splicing

• Fault finding

• Custom cabinet installs, cable pulling, network revamps and so much more

We’re a small company, but we’re growing with purpose. We don’t chase volume — we focus on getting the job done right. Our aim is to build something lasting, where clients trust us not just because of our capability, but because of our consistency.

Our Vision

At Excalibur Networks, our values are simple but strong:

• Do the job right, every time

• Take pride in your work

• Never overpromise - just deliver

We believe in the same core principles I saw growing up: that integrity matters, and that trust is earned through action, not words.

As we grow, we’re investing in:

• Practical field tools that help engineers document, update, and track live work

• Planning systems that reduce rework and confusion

• Transparent support that makes life easier for ISPs, contractors, and teams on the ground

We’re building a company for the long term - one that values people, precision, and doing things properly.

The Telecoms Industry: What’s Next

Telecoms is advancing faster than ever. With full-fibre, 5G, and smart infrastructure accelerating across the UK, the industry is filled with opportunity — but also with complexity.

At Excalibur Networks, we’re committed to cutting through the noise. We combine hands-on experience with smart planning to make telecoms simpler, faster, and more reliable - without cutting corners. Because in the end, quality speaks for itself.

If you're looking for a partner you can trust - or a team that values doing things properly - we’d love to work with you.

We’re not just laying cables.
We’re building a name that people remember.

Thanks for visiting,
Rhys Howitt
Director, Excalibur Networks

"It’s very rare that a major service provider would insist on one partner engaging with another — that should tell you everything you need to know about the quality and trust Excalibur Networks bring to the table."

John Amey, Chief Operating Officer, Tinder Corporation