Washington, D.C., – Yesterday, during its 2026 Annual Meeting, Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) elected its 2026/2027 Board of Directors. CCA’s Officers will be elected and announced next week during CCA’s 2026 Annual Convention taking place in New Orleans, September 14-16. CCA’s 2025/2026 Chair of the Board, Maureen McCabe Moore, SVP and Chief Customer Experience Officer, GCI Communications Corp., said, “CCA encompasses of a group of very dedicated, advocacy-focused competitive carriers, and it has been an honor and pleasure to serve as Chair for the past two years. I look forward to continued service on the Board and our collective work to achieve CCA’s advocacy goals.”  CCA’s President and CEO, Tim Donovan said, “I am delighted to have such a remarkable group of individuals serving on the Board who are committed to advancing CCA’s policy issues. With several critical advocacy issues before us, I look forward to working with the Board and drawing on their leadership and guidance to ensure competitive carriers can compete, invest, and thrive for years to come.” 2026/2027 Board of Directors *Re-elected ** New Board Member Mike Calabrese – Tarana Wireless Chris Champion – C Spire Serena Chisnell – Nokia Tom Cullen – Boost Mobile Chip Damato – ClearSky Technologies* Frank DiRico – Viaero Wireless* Tim Donovan – Competitive Carriers Association John Dwyer – Interop Technologies, Inc. * Jonathan Foxman – MTPCS Lisa Hanlon – Teltech Group** Judd Hinkle – Cellular One of NE Arizona* Mike Johnson – Appalachian Wireless* Mike Kilgore – Sagebrush Cellular Jon Lightle – Nex-Tech Wireless Maureen McCabe Moore – GCI John Nettles – Pine Belt Communications Clint Odom – T-Mobile Michael Prior – ATN International* Brighid Riordan – Cellcom Tracey Schenk – Thumb Cellular, LLC Slayton Stewart – Carolina West Wireless Bentina Terry – Southern Linc Von Todd – HTC, Inc. Per Wahlén – Ericsson Seth Walton – Transaction Network Services** Ron Whaley – IDI Billing Solutions John Wick – Syniverse Eric Woody – Union Wireless* ### About Competitive Carriers Association Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) is the leading association for competitive communications service providers and stakeholders across the United States. Members range from small, rural carriers serving fewer than 5,000 customers to regional and nationwide providers serving millions, as well as vendors and suppliers delivering products and services throughout the communications ecosystem.

Washington, D.C., — Competitive Carriers Association’s 2026 Annual Convention (CCA 2026) will host two days of keynotes and executive panels with industry leaders from ATN International, C Spire, Carolina West Wireless, Cellular One, ClearSky Technologies, Ernst & Young, Nextlink, Oracle Communications, T-Mobile, Tarana Wireless, and Union Wireless. The topics of discussion center on a common theme: how competitive communications service providers can thrive in an evolving market and what they must do to remain competitive and stay in the game. CCA 2026 will take place September 14-16 at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans in Louisiana. On Tuesday, September 15, CCA President and CEO Tim Donovan will deliver welcome remarks to open the keynote luncheon. Next, Jeff Giard, Vice President of Business Development & Partnership at T-Mobile will talk about T-Mobile’s recently announced satellite joint venture with the nationwide carriers and its mission to enhance satellite competition and provide rural carriers with a one-stop shop for technical and OEM standardizations, technology, and IT. Rounding out the keynote program, ClearSky Technologies will host, “The Burn on Bourbon Street,” testing panelists with their industry knowledge while simultaneously participating in a hot wing eating contest. Ron Willett, Vice President & GM of ClearSky Technologies will moderate. Panelists include: Chip Damato, Business Development Director, ClearSky Technologies Mark Lane, Director of Network Engineering & Operations, Cellular One of NE Arizona Eric Woody, CEO, Union Wireless David Zylka, Chief Technology Officer, Carolina West Wireless On Wednesday, September 16, the keynote program will begin with remarks by Maneesh Gauba, Industry Executive Director for Telecommunications at Oracle Communications, followed by the Fierce Network Panel entitled, “Surviving Convergence: Why Broadband Has Become Essential to the Future of Regional Operators,” which will be moderated by Monica Alleven, Executive Editor, Wireless, Fierce Network. Panelists include: Claude Aiken, Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Legal Officer, Nextlink Mike Calabrese, VP of Worldwide Sales, Tarana Wireless Suzy Hays, President & CEO, C Spire Michael Perchonok, Principal, EY-Parthenon, Ernst & Young LLP Michael Prior, Executive Chairman of the Board, ATN International “I’m very excited that CCA’s 2026 Annual Convention will feature such a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers from across the industry,” said Tim Donovan, President and CEO of CCA. “CCA represents more than just wireless, and regional carriers have a lot to offer and contribute to ensure every American can connect. I’m excited to hear directly from these industry leaders and executives about how they make strategic decisions, compete with national carriers, and identify opportunities to work together as the industry continues to navigate convergence.” About Competitive Carriers Association Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) is the leading association for competitive communications service providers and stakeholders across the United States. Members range from small, rural carriers serving fewer than 5,000 customers to regional and nationwide providers serving millions, as well as vendors and suppliers delivering products and services throughout the communications ecosystem. In 2027, CCA’s Policy Summit & Capitol Hill Day will be held in Washington, DC on February 9 & 10, and the Annual Convention will take place September 13-15 in Palm Springs, CA. Visit www. ccamobile.org and on X, @CCAMobile and #CCA2026.

Washington, D.C. – Mobile carriers and communications service stakeholders from across the nation will soon convene at CCA’s 2026 Annual Convention , September 14-16 at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans. The conference will feature an educational program focused on strategies for generating revenue, enhancing business practices, and improving the customer experience, including a keynote panel produced by Fierce Network entitled, “Surviving Convergence: Why Broadband Has Become Essential to the Future of Regional Operators.” Panelists will explore the ways in which regional operators are leaning on broadband, expanding beyond wireless, and building broader connectivity businesses. Whether through fiber, fixed wireless, partnerships, or a combination of approaches, this session will examine the ways network operators are connecting customers and the business and policy implications that are emerging. Speakers include: Monica Alleven, Executive Editor, Wireless, Fierce Network – moderator Claude Aiken, Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Legal Officer, NextLink Mike Calabrese, VP of Worldwide Sales, Tarana Wireless Suzy Hays, President & CEO, C Spire Michael Perchonok, Principal, EY-Parthenon, Ernst & Young LLP  Michael Prior, Executive Chairman of the Board, ATN International “It is always a pleasure to have Fierce Network back to host a keynote panel – this time focused on convergence, which is an important topic not only for CCA members, but also for the broader industry,” said CCA President & CEO Tim Donovan. “To remain competitive, it is more important than ever for companies to leverage the technologies and resources available to keep customers connected and supported. CCA and its members are extremely focused on the evolving policy and business landscape surrounding convergence, and I look forward to hearing the timely insights from this panel of experts and the discussions it will spark throughout the show.” ### About Competitive Carriers Association Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) is the leading association for competitive communications service providers and stakeholders across the United States. Members range from small, rural carriers serving fewer than 5,000 customers to regional and nationwide providers serving millions, as well as vendors and suppliers delivering products and services throughout the communications ecosystem. In 2027, CCA’s Policy Summit will be held in Washington DC on February 9, and the Annual Convention will take place September 13-15 in Palm Springs, CA. Visit ccamobile.org and on X, @CCAMobile and #CCA2026.

Washington, D.C. – Competitive Carriers Association President and CEO Tim Donovan made the following statement regarding the advancement of S. 4448, the Accelerating Broadband Permits Act of 2026, to the House floor: “CCA thanks the Senate Commerce Committee for advancing the ‘Accelerating Broadband Permits Act of 2026,’ with bipartisan support, to help expedite the permitting process for BEAD projects. Strong oversight and accountability transparency in the federal permitting process are crucial as BEAD projects move forward. Eliminating unnecessary steps, reducing delays, and streamlining federal siting and permitting will help to maximize the program’s efficiency and impact in connecting unserved and underserved areas across the nation.” For more information about CCA and its policy priorities, please visit ccamobile.org . ### About Competitive Carriers Association Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) is the leading association for competitive communications service providers and stakeholders across the United States. Members range from small, rural carriers serving fewer than 5,000 customers to regional and nationwide providers serving millions, as well as vendors and suppliers delivering products and services throughout the communications ecosystem.

Washington, D.C. – Competitive Carriers Association President and CEO Tim Donovan made the following statement regarding Verizon’s proposed acquisition of Carolina West Wireless (“Carolina West”): “Carolina West Wireless has been providing exceptional service to its customers for 35 years and has been an exemplary member of CCA for over two decades. The company is without question an innovator and leader in the competitive carrier community, and today’s announcement demonstrates why policymakers must ensure that competitive carriers serving rural and small markets have the tools and support necessary to compete, invest, and thrive in the years ahead.” “Over two years ago, Carolina West sounded the alarm with the FCC regarding its dire need for additional Universal Service Fund (“USF”) support to prevent the shutdown of several money-losing towers – and the potential loss of service to customers. The financial challenges Carolina West highlighted are not unique, and many other small and rural carriers continue to face similar pressures as they serve high-cost areas without the scale advantages enjoyed by nationwide carriers. Without further policy changes, more communities will lose locally focused providers that have long delivered choice, innovation, and connectivity in high-cost areas, particularly in communities that might otherwise be overlooked. Many of these carriers are in need of critical USF support, and the FCC can support these carriers and rural consumers by providing sustainable operational expense support for mobile networks, among other policies. Time is of the essence, and I strongly encourage Congress and the Commission to take prompt action.” Donovan continued, “The communications marketplace is losing rural and regional competitors at too rapid a pace. Today’s announcement underscores the broader challenges facing many small and rural carriers and the need for policies that support their ability to compete, invest, and serve rural communities. I strongly urge policymakers to take a hard look at the state of the industry and promote policies that give smaller carriers, and their consumers, a fighting chance.” ### About Competitive Carriers Association Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) is the leading association for competitive communications service providers and stakeholders across the United States. Members range from small, rural carriers serving fewer than 5,000 customers to regional and nationwide providers serving millions, as well as vendors and suppliers delivering products and services throughout the communications ecosystem.

Washington, D.C. – Competitive Carriers Association President and CEO Tim Donovan made the following statement following the Senate’s passage of S. 2585, the Modernization, Accountability, and Planning for Broadband Funding Act (MAP for Broadband Funding Act): “CCA applauds the Senate for unanimously passing the MAP for Broadband Funding Act and thanks Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) for championing efforts to improve the FCC’s Broadband Funding Map. This continued focus on improving data provides broadband providers and government entities at all levels with a clearer view of federally funded projects across the country, helping to prevent duplicative spending and close the digital divide. CCA supports efforts to continue improving mapping tools that facilitate broadband deployment, promote more efficient use of program funds, and expand connectivity and access for rural communities.” For more information about CCA and its policy priorities, please visit ccamobile.org . ### About Competitive Carriers Association Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) is the leading association for competitive communications service providers and stakeholders across the United States. Members range from small, rural carriers serving fewer than 5,000 customers to regional and nationwide providers serving millions, as well as vendors and suppliers delivering products and services throughout the communications ecosystem.

Washington, D.C., – Competitive Carriers Association President and CEO Tim Donovan made the following statement regarding the introduction of S. 4448, the Accelerating Broadband Permits Act of 2026: “CCA commends Senators John Thune (R-SD), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and John Barrasso (R-WY) for introducing the ‘Accelerating Broadband Permits Act of 2026,’ which will help expedite Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program projects requiring federal permits. As BEAD projects advance, it is critical for NTIA to strengthen oversight and accountability in the federal permitting process. Reducing delays and streamlining federal siting and permitting will maximize the program’s impact and help close the digital divide.” For more information about CCA and its policy priorities, please visit ccamobile.org. ### About Competitive Carriers Association Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) is the leading association for competitive communications service providers and stakeholders across the United States. Members range from small, rural carriers serving fewer than 5,000 customers to regional and nationwide providers serving millions, as well as vendors and suppliers delivering products and services throughout the communications ecosystem.

Louisville, Kentucky – Competitive Carriers Association announced the winners of the 2026 Excellence in Marketing Awards today at its Mobility & Connectivity Show (MCS 2026). The awards recognize CCA members’ most effective and innovative marketing campaigns from last year across various platforms such as digital, print, TV, and radio. MCS 2026 takes place April 14-16 at the Louisville Marriott Downtown in Louisville, Kentucky. The Excellence in Marketing Awards highlight achievements of companies across the communications service provider industry and serve as a platform to recognize and celebrate the advancing campaigns, strategic initiatives, and innovative approaches that drive telecommunications forward. “CCA’s Excellence in Marketing Awards recognize the most creative and captivating marketing campaigns among our members,” said Tim Donovan, President and CEO of CCA. “Congratulations to this year’s winners for their innovative and visionary approach to engaging audiences and advancing brands within the communications service provider community.” This year’s CCA Excellence in Marketing Awards winners include: Animated Online Videos: Carrier Member Nex-Tech Wireless: “ NTW Childcare Appreciation Animated Video ” Animated Online Videos: Associate Member IDI Billing Solutions: “ The Power of IDI's Web-Based Sales Solutions ” Online Ads: Carrier Member Cellular One of NE AZ: “ Wicked Tough ” Print Ads: Carrier Member GCI “ Business ” Print Ads: Associate Member Telsasoft: “ Your Network’s Eyes & Ears ” Radio Spot: Carrier Member Bark Mobile: “ What the Elf Holiday Radio ” TV Commercials & YouTube Videos: Carrier Member Union Wireless: “ Better Connections Better Communities ” People’s Choice Viaero Wireless (TV Commercials & YouTube Videos: Carrier Members): “ Answering the Call: Community Outreach ” About Competitive Carriers Association Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) is the leading association for competitive communications service providers and stakeholders across the United States. Members range from small, rural carriers serving fewer than 5,000 customers to regional and nationwide providers serving millions, as well as vendors and suppliers delivering products and services throughout the communications ecosystem. CCA’s 2026 Mobility & Connectivity Show takes place April 14-16 in Louisville, Kentucky. CCA’s 2026 Annual Convention will take place September 14-16 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Visit ccamobile.org and on X, @CCAMobile and #MCS2026.

Louisville, Kentucky – The main stage program at Competitive Carriers Association’s Mobility & Connectivity Show (MCS) opened this morning, welcoming communications service providers and industry stakeholders whose innovations, technologies, and visionary insights are shaping the future of the industry. MCS takes place April 14-16 at the Louisville Marriott Downtown in Louisville, Kentucky. In opening remarks, CCA’s President & CEO Tim Donovan addressed the ever-constant piece of the industry – change. The communications service provider industry has faced rapid change over the past decade, and Donovan stressed CCA’s important work not only for the carriers, but also for vendors and stakeholders that contribute to the competitive carrier ecosystem. Donovan noted that the association’s, “collective voice, combined with CCA’s trusted and dedicated staff, has resulted in significant – and even business-saving – wins for CCA members over the years…interoperability in the 700 MHz band, ending handset exclusivity, broadband data mapping, billions of dollars in USF support for CCA members, full funding of the Rip and Replace program, handset unlocking, and more.” With many issues at play including the future of USF, the next chapter of the BEAD program, infrastructure and siting rules, spectrum policies that promote competition, and completion of Rip and Replace projects, Donovan stated that CCA is ready for the advocacy fight. Donovan said, “We have been here before. Competitive carriers have been underestimated, and we have proven what is possible when we stand together. Not because we were the biggest or spent the most on DC lobbying, but because of the authenticity you have in your communities.” Following Donovan’s remarks, media partner Fierce Network hosted an executive panel titled, “The Future of Connectivity: A Regional Carrier Reality Check,” which explored the evolving landscape facing regional carriers. Speakers included panel moderator Linda Hardesty, Executive Editor and Chief Analyst, Fierce Network; Aaron Gillespie, COO, Nex-Tech Wireless; Mike Johnson, CEO, Appalachian Wireless; and Brian Jones, SVP & Chief Treasury Officer, C Spire. “I appreciate our keynote panel sharing their insights and perspectives from the regional carrier point of view,” said Tim Donovan. "MCS is the ideal venue for having meaningful discussions on these issues and other key topics for competitive carriers, and it is extremely important to hear directly from those ‘on the playing field.’” Closing out today’s keynote program was Peter Linder, Head of Thought Leadership at Ericsson Americas, and his discussion on elevating 5G with differentiated connectivity. Thursday, April 16 keynotes include: 9:15 am ET – Keynote Panel: Cyber Resilience for Mobile Networks: Leadership Lessons on Readiness, Response, and Recovery 10:00 am ET – CCA’s Excellence in Marketing Awards Presentation About Competitive Carriers Association Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) is the leading association for competitive communications service providers and stakeholders across the United States. Members range from small, rural carriers serving fewer than 5,000 customers to regional and nationwide providers serving millions, as well as vendors and suppliers delivering products and services throughout the communications ecosystem. CCA’s 2026 Mobility & Connectivity Show takes place April 14-16 in Louisville, Kentucky. CCA’s 2026 Annual Convention will take place September 14-16 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Visit ccamobile.org and on X, @CCAMobile and #MCS2026.