Tyler Vander Ploeg

Tyler Vander Ploeg - Fiber Optic Guru by Day, Rock Star by Night

Tyler Vander Ploeg serves as the Key Account Manager for Fiber Optics at MicroCare, leveraging nearly 25 years of expertise in the fiber optic industry to drive sales and build partnerships across the western half of North America. His role includes collaborating with reps, partners, distributors, and key customers to promote the Sticklers™ fiber optic cleaning product lineup—such as solvents, CleanClickers™, and cleaning kits—while spearheading market growth for innovative solutions like the PRO360°™ Touchless Cleaner.

From Project Magaement to Market Leadership

Tyler began his career in project management before transitioning into product management, where he spent a decade overseeing the development and launch of cutting-edge fiber optic inspection tools at VIAVI Solutions. Among his proudest accomplishments is the launch of the FiberChek™ Probe Microscope, a product that revolutionized fiber inspection by solving critical industry challenges and achieving lasting market success. For the past 10 years, Tyler has focused on sales and marketing, using his relational work style to foster strong collaborations and ensure team success.

A graduate of Seattle Pacific University with a degree in Business Administration, Tyler also holds the prestigious RCDD certification, which he achieved through two years of rigorous preparation. His educational background laid a solid foundation for his career, emphasizing leadership, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Passion for Innovation and Best Practices in Fiber Optics

Tyler’s passion for the fiber optic industry stems from its consistent growth and evolving technologies. His enthusiasm for innovation brought him to MicroCare, where he saw the game-changing potential of the PRO360°™. He is also a strong advocate for best practices in fiber cleaning, frequently sharing his expertise through industry presentations, webinars, and articles.

Life Beyond Fiber Optics

Outside of work, Tyler enjoys spending time with his wife, four children, and their dog, Ferris. Based in the Pacific Northwest, his family embraces outdoor adventures, from camping in the summer to skiing in the winter. An accomplished guitarist, Tyler performs with Miss Sydney and the Downtown Saints, a band that entertains at local community events.

Tyler’s approach to life and work reflects his belief in the value of relationships, resilience, and embracing challenges—lessons he enjoys passing along to both his colleagues and his children as they watch classic 80s comedies together.