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.

Washington, D.C., – Competitive Carriers Association joined fellow industry stakeholders in a letter to House leadership urging the advancement of H.R. 2289, the American Broadband Deployment Act. Read the joint letter here . President and CEO Tim Donovan made the following statement regarding H.R. 2289, the American Broadband Deployment Act: “Permitting and siting reform is critical to overcoming widespread barriers to broadband deployment and access. After historic investments to connect all Americans, Congress must act on common-sense streamlining measures to ensure competitive and rural carries can serve some of the most challenging areas of the country and make connectivity a reality.” 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., – Communications service providers and industry stakeholders from across the nation will convene at Competitive Carriers Association’s 2026 Mobility & Connectivity Show (MCS), April 14-16 in Louisville, KY for three days of educational sessions, exhibits, and networking. Fierce Network is set to return to the show with a headline keynote panel entitled, “The Future of Connectivity: A Regional Carrier Reality Check.” Taking place on Wednesday, April 15, at 9:00 am ET, this discussion will center around the benefits regional carriers bring along with the structural pressures they face. Regional carriers occupy an important, yet often misunderstood position in the telecom ecosystem, and panelists will explore whether regional carriers can continue to compete in an environment increasingly shaped by national footprints and large capital budgets, or whether more consolidation is inevitable. Moderated by Linda Hardesty, Executive Editor and Chief Analyst, Fierce Network, speakers will consider the complex challenges and circumstances that face the industry. Through expert insights, this panel will address the risks and uncertainties that keep executives up at night. From regulatory shifts and funding constraints to technological disruption and competitive encroachment, all will affect not just companies in the industry but the consumers in the underserved, hard-to-reach areas. Speakers will include: Aaron Gillespie, COO, Nex-Tech Wireless Mike Johnson, CEO, Appalachian Wireless Brian Jones, SVP & Chief Treasury Officer, C Spire “I’m delighted Fierce Network is back to host a keynote panel specifically on reginal carriers,” said Tim Donovan, President and CEO of CCA. “Appalachian Wireless, C Spire, and Nex-Tech Wireless are all long-time CCA members, and I appreciate their willingness to share not only their success stories but also the challenges they face in their day-to-day operations. Regional carriers are some of the most innovative companies in the industry, and I look forward to hearing their thoughts and insights, which will certainly prompt interesting discussions 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. 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.

Washington, D.C., — Competitive Carriers Association’s (CCA) 2026 Mobility & Connectivity Show (MCS) will host two days of keynotes and executive panels with industry leaders from Appalachian Wireless, Baker Tilly, Cellcom, C Spire, Ericsson, Nex-Tech Wireless, Oracle Infrastructure, and UNICO. Topics of discussion include the future and importance of regional carriers, 5G, and cybersecurity readiness and response. MCS will take place April 14-16 at the Louisville Marriott Downtown in Louisville, Kentucky. Known for convening industry leaders and innovators to foster meaningful conversation within the telecommunications sphere, MCS has once again curated a roster of speakers who represent expertise and vision in the field. On Wednesday, April 15, CCA President and CEO Tim Donovan will open the keynote program at 8:45 am ET, followed by the Fierce Network Executive Panel entitled, “The Future of Connectivity: A Regional Carrier Reality Check,” at 9:00 am ET, which will be moderated by Linda Hardesty, Executive Editor and Chief Analyst, Communications Technologies, Fierce Network. Panelists include: Mike Johnson, CEO, Appalachian Wireless Aaron Gillespie, COO, Nex-Tech Wireless Brian Jones, SVP & Chief Treasury Officer, C Spire Following the Fierce panel, Peter Linder, Head of Thought Leadership, Ericsson Americas, will deliver remarks at 9:50 am, “When Moments Matter: Elevating 5G with Differentiated Connectivity.” On Thursday, April 16, the keynote program will begin at 9:15am and feature a keynote panel entitled, “Cyber Resilience for Mobile Networks: Leadership Lessons on Readiness, Response, and Recovery.” It will be moderated by Chad Duval, Principal, Baker Tilly, Broadband, Utilities & Communications Consulting Practice. Panelists include: Chris Danielson, VP, Risk Advisor, UNICO Ken Kaminski, Director of Cybersecurity – Regional Carriers, Ericsson Americas Brighid Riordan, CEO, Nsight Travis Russell, Infrastructure Cybersecurity Office, Oracle Infrastructure “I’m delighted to welcome such a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers to this year’s Mobility & Connectivity Show,” said Tim Donovan, President and CEO of CCA. “The telecommunications space is incredibly interesting right now, and regional carriers have much to offer. I’m excited to hear from carrier executives about their decision-making processes, what they do to compete against the national carriers, and how we can all be best prepared to defend our companies against cyber-attacks.” 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.

Washington, D.C. – Today, CCA sent a letter to Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator Arielle Roth urging the NTIA to allow states to use remaining BEAD funds for wireless and mobility projects to complement approved BEAD fixed deployments and more fully connect rural America. The letter highlights how targeted investments in mobile infrastructure build upon other BEAD deployments and can help states significantly reduce dead zones in rural areas, advancing the program’s core goal of connecting all Americans. “Americans need connectivity that works everywhere they live, work, and travel, not just at home,” said CCA President and CEO Tim Donovan. “Additional wireless infrastructure can extend the reach of BEAD deployments and help eliminate coverage gaps. Allowing states to use remaining BEAD funds for wireless connectivity will support public safety, American AI leadership, manufacturing, telehealth, and precision agriculture, maximizing the benefits for millions of Americans. 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.

Event Features Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Congressman Russell Fry (R-SC) as keynote speakers

Washington, D.C., – Competitive Carriers Association President and CEO Tim Donovan made the following statement regarding the upcoming reauthorization of the First Responder Network Authority Act: “CCA commends the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology on today’s legislative hearing evaluating FirstNet and for considering proactive bipartisan legislation to reauthorize FirstNet. The action is an important step in addressing needed transparency and accountability for FirstNet.” “In reauthorizing FirstNet, CCA supports robust oversight, a clear focus on how best to serve the needs of public safety, expanded rural coverage and partnership opportunities for rural carriers, and true interoperability that promotes resiliency and a competitive market for public safety communications. CCA appreciates the Subcommittee’s timely and thoughtful work on these important issues and its engagement with a broad range of stakeholders as this process moves forward.” 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: “CCA filed comments in the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) IP Interconnection proceeding yesterday. The FCC is proposing to forbear from sections of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 that support interconnection and collocation for competitive providers in hopes of facilitating the country’s transition to IP. CCA’s comments emphasize the importance of wholesale competition to the FCC’s consideration and ongoing anticompetitive conduct from legacy incumbent local exchange carriers surrounding competitive interconnection. CCA members want to interconnect in IP and are being thwarted from efficiently doing so. CCA proposes a glide path the FCC can use as a basis for successfully and completely transitioning to IP in the United States – ensuring connectivity, competition, and innovation. Getting IP interconnection right – from the transition from TDM through fair and competitive rules of the road in an all-IP world – is one of the most important issues CCA members will face in 2026.” 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.