August 5

9:00 am

Annual Mountain Connect Golf Tournament

Signup for this popular outing! 

  • 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
  • Green Valley Ranch Golf Club

10:00 am

Conference Registration

  • 10:00 am to 5:30 pm
  • Plaza Registration

11:00 am

Pre-Conference Session

Broadband 101 Class

Broadband 101 Session – The Basics of Broadband This pre-conference session will cover the basic concepts of broadband networking technology, economics, and public policy that all industry managers, public policy … Read more

  • 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
  • Moderator: David Reed
  • Plaza Court 4/5

12:00 pm

Exhibitor Setup

  • 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm
  • Plaza Exhibit Foyer

3:30 pm

Pre-Conference Session

Broadband Connections: Uniting Experts and Communities

Join us for an engaging preconference that promises to be both informative and transformative. Featuring compelling customer testimonials, you’ll gain valuable insights into real-world challenges and solutions from those who … Read more

6:30 pm

Conference Welcome Reception

  • 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
  • Plaza Ballroom

August 6

7:00 am

Conference Registration

  • 7:00 am to 4:00 pm
  • Plaza Registration

Full Breakfast Buffet

  • 7:00 am to 8:00 am
  • Plaza Ballroom

8:00 am

General Session

Welcome to Mountain Connect 2024

Conference Opening Remarks Ten years! We look back at where we’ve been and forward to where the industry hopes to be as Jeffrey Gavlinski interviews the original Mountain Connect Founder, … Read more

8:30 am

General Session

BEAD’s Final Showdown — Preparing for BEAD Implementation a State Broadband Director Perspective

Hear from six state broadband office directors as they share state specific approaches on how they will implement their BEAD funding program. Panelists that have had their state plans approved … Read more

9:30 am

Broadband Equity, Access & Deployment

Growing Pains: Are You Ready to Scale to Meet Market Needs

Thanks to numerous state and federal funding programs, ISPs have the opportunity to leverage billions of grant dollars for broadband to grow their service footprint.  ISPs will be confronted with … Read more

The State(s) of BEAD

Let’s Talk BEAD: Southwest States

We’re in the heart of BEAD, its challenge processes, volume two’s being cured, and soon subgrantee selection. Mountain Connect is bringing State Broadband Offices together to discuss how each respective … Read more

Emerging Technologies

Constructing the Network of the Future… Now

Imagine a time when no one is left behind of the digital divide and where ubiquitous instantaneous connectivity is available to all Americans.  Imagine how these investments will usher in … Read more

Community Broadband Case Studies

Local, Local, Local!

Being local is key to successful rural broadband. Knowing the Public Works Director, the City or Town Administrator, the electrical utility engineering department, and the City or Town Council are … Read more

Community Development

The Future of Broadband Affordability

In anticipation of billions of dollars in broadband funding across the US, researchers at Next Century Cities collected statewide statistics from states and territories eligible for the BEAD Program as … Read more

10:15 am

Tuesday Morning Exhibit Hall Hours

  • 10:15 am to 11:00 am

11:00 am

Broadband Equity, Access & Deployment

Beyond the BEAD Subsidy: It’s not just about government money. Why private capital is key to winning BEAD and executing successfully.

Being a successful BEAD applicant is not only about securing grant funds. To be successful, applicants will need sufficient private capital to credibly propose a winning private match of at … Read more

The State(s) of BEAD

Let’s Talk BEAD: Mountain West States

We’re in the heart of BEAD, its challenge processes, volume two’s being cured, and soon subgrantee selection. Mountain Connect is bringing State Broadband Offices together to discuss how each respective … Read more

Emerging Technologies

Leveraging Public Infrastructure to Connect the Community

To achieve their goal of leveraging utility infrastructure for citywide fiber connectivity, Colorado Springs Utilities entered into an agreement with The Broadband Group to plan and implement their project and … Read more

Community Broadband Case Studies

Successful Digital Equity Programs: We Know WHY, Let’s Focus on HOW

This session will review a variety of successful digital equity efforts from across the country. Expert practitioners will discuss the importance of high speed, low cost home access options and … Read more

Community Development

Over the River (and Railroad) We Go: Fiber vs Laser in Challenging Deployments

Rivers & Railroads get in the way of upgrading backhaul infrastructure. While fiber delivers great bandwidth and reliability, the costs are high, Railroads have challenging standards, rivers/canyons/mountains complicate deployments, and … Read more

12:00 pm

General Session

Tuesday Lunch

  • 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm
  • Plaza Ballroom

12:30 pm

General Session

Tuesday Lunch Keynote: A Fireside Chat with SpaceX

Join Gwynne Shotwell, President and Chief Operating Officer of SpaceX, for a Fireside Chat. Hear from this pioneering business leader about plans to land Americans on the moon, what it’s … Read more

1:15 pm

Tuesday Afternoon Exhibit Hall Break

  • 1:15 pm to 2:45 pm
  • Plaza Exhibit Foyer

2:45 pm

Broadband Equity, Access & Deployment

Mission Critical: Training and Delivering Broadband Talent

There is a massive shortage of trained Broadband (BB) technicians and professionals needed to bring broadband across America. Community colleges will learn about cutting-edge resources such as Broadband Nation which is … Read more

The State(s) of BEAD

Unlocking Connectivity in MDUs through Federal Funding

The demand for robust connectivity in Multi-Dwelling Units (MDUs) is more critical than ever. This panel aims to explore creative strategies employed by various states in utilizing Broadband Equity and … Read more

Emerging Technologies

Game Changer: The impact of eSports & gaming in rural America

eSports and gaming are taking form as a powerful means of connection and opportunity beyond the digital arena. This interactive panel discussion will arm participants with a new knowledge and … Read more

Community Broadband Case Studies

Using Data To Guide Broadband Policy & Programming Interventions

While data shows that broadband networks have been deployed equitably overall, rurality has a significant impact on broadband availability for people of all races and incomes. In addition, Native Americans … Read more

Community Development

The Time is NOW to Protect Your Network Against Cyber Attacks

With cyber attacks on the rise, it’s not a matter of your network will be targeted. Providers need to protect their network with top-tier tools to keep their customers and … Read more

3:45 pm

Broadband Equity, Access & Deployment

How to Face and Hopefully Overcome Challenges when Delivering Broadband Funding to Rural Communities

The Appalachia Digital Accelerator supports rural Appalachian communities by enhancing broadband connectivity and digital skills to drive economic, social, and health improvements. Managed by Connect Humanity, the Accelerator aids 24 … Read more

The State(s) of BEAD

Let’s Talk BEAD: Midwest States

We’re in the heart of BEAD, its challenge processes, volume two’s being cured, and soon subgrantee selection. Mountain Connect is bringing State Broadband Offices together to discuss how each respective … Read more

Emerging Technologies

Efficient Digital Fielding & Design for Fiber Network Deployments

Begin with the end in mind®. This is Habit #2 from the timeless classic book, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by Steven Covey. Fiber broadband’s “end in mind” is … Read more

Community Broadband Case Studies

Broadband Superpowers – Which Ones Do You Need for Your Community

Join us for a dynamic discussion and debate on the future of broadband connectivity, hosted by Brian Hollister, CEO of Bonfire. This panel will debate and challenge your assumptions around … Read more

Community Development

Women in Broadband: The Next Generation

This panel illuminates the pivotal roles and dynamic contributions of women in early to mid-career stages within the telecom industry. As the sector evolves rapidly, these emerging leaders are driving … Read more

4:45 pm

Broadband Equity, Access & Deployment

What Happens After BEAD Funds Are Awarded?

While many are focused now on state competitive grant processes, awarding BEAD funds to sub-grantees is not the end of the road – it’s just the initial milestone in a … Read more

The State(s) of BEAD

Let’s Talk BEAD: Northeast States

We’re in the heart of BEAD, its challenge processes, volume two’s being cured, and soon subgrantee selection. Mountain Connect is bringing State Broadband Offices together to discuss how each respective … Read more

Emerging Technologies

Expanding the Vision of “Open Access” Networks as Operating Systems for Cities

What if a single fiber network, brought to life with technology, could serve every community segment, bring competition and choice in services all the way to the desktop, and form … Read more

Community Broadband Case Studies

How Local Governments Promote Broadband Deployment and Protect Consumers

With billions of dollars available for broadband from state and federal sources, municipalities are preparing themselves to apply for funding and address potential concerns that new broadband projects will bring … Read more

Community Development

Bandwidth Trends and Impact on Middle Mile Networks

Integrating rural areas into the digital world is important for economic development. Connecting homes to the internet is crucial. However, the amount of data that those digital pipelines can carry … Read more

5:30 pm

Exhibitor Reception

  • 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
  • Plaza Exhibit Foyer

August 7

7:00 am

Conference Registration

  • 7:00 am to 2:00 pm
  • Plaza Registration

Full Breakfast Buffet

  • 7:00 am to 8:00 am
  • Plaza Ballroom

8:00 am

General Session

Breakfast Keynote: The NTIA and the “State” of BEAD

Attend this keynote panel and fireside chat with NTIA BEAD Director Evan Feinman and State Broadband Directors on the Status of BEAD. The session will delve into such topics as … Read more

9:00 am

Broadband Equity, Access & Deployment

Going for the Gold: Using Vendor Coalitions to Success Obtain Government Funding

As states start and open their grant application windows under short time constraints, it is imperative that the potential subgrantees (potential fiber network owner) have all of their vendors lined … Read more

The State(s) of BEAD

Let’s Talk BEAD: Western States

We’re in the heart of BEAD, its challenge processes, volume two’s being cured, and soon subgrantee selection. Mountain Connect is bringing State Broadband Offices together to discuss how each respective … Read more

Emerging Technologies

Shaping Regulatory Policy at the Local, State and Federal Level

AI systems have been embraced by local and state governments at unprecedented scale. People across the world are recognizing the potential that AI will bring to the economy and public … Read more

Community Broadband Case Studies

Digital Inclusion Partnerships – The Impact of Collaboration

Melanie Colletti, Digital Equity Manager for Colorado’s Office of the Future of Work, will facilitate a panel of leaders from community-based organizations that have contributed to the creation of Colorado’s … Read more

Community Development

Out of the Box Thinking – How Political Power Drives a Path to Progress in Uncertain Times

As more communities devise their broadband solutions, leveraging the upcoming funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, what makes for successful efforts responsive to community needs? What factors contribute … Read more

10:00 am

Broadband Equity, Access & Deployment

Building a Strong Foundation: Community Readiness for BEAD

This session will equip communities with the knowledge and tools to navigate the BEAD application process and secure funding for broadband infrastructure development. This interactive presentation equips communities with the … Read more

The State(s) of BEAD

Let’s Talk BEAD: A Conversation with State Broadband Directors

We’ve all been waiting for the roll out of the $42.5 billion in congressionally appropriated BEAD funding. NTIA required state broadband offices to submit their plans for a state map … Read more

Emerging Technologies

How Starlink is Helping Communities Stay Connected in the Worst of Times

In times of emergency, internet connections are critical for emergency response, community support, and continuity of services.  Learn how Starlink is helping communities stay connected during the worst of times. … Read more

Community Broadband Case Studies

From Greenfield to Growth: Pioneering a Sustainable Broadband Model for Rural Communities

In this session, we will explore the success story of a small Midwest county that forged a public-private partnership to pioneer a community-owned infrastructure project with a holistic broadband solution. … Read more

Community Development

Net Neutrality Revisited

In recent years, the FCC has hotly debated and repeatedly changed the regulatory classification of broadband under the Communications Act.  Due to different philosophical approaches to what rules should apply … Read more

10:45 am

Wednesday Morning Exhibit Hall Hours

  • 10:45 am to 12:00 pm

12:00 pm

General Session

Wednesday Lunch

  • 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm
  • Plaza Ballroom

12:15 pm

General Session

Fireside Chat with FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr

Join us for this pre-recorded fireside chat with FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr. Topics discussed include: 1. Impacts of Chevron Deference to FCC 2. Universal Service Fund Reform (ahead of the … Read more

12:30 pm

General Session

Lunch Keynote – History is the Future: What the Early Days of the Telegraph & Telephone Can Teach Us About the Internet’s Ongoing Evolution

In order to understand the future, we often must look to the past. In this keynote, carrier hotel pioneer Hunter Newby will discuss how the evolution of telegraph and telephone … Read more

1:30 pm

Broadband Equity, Access & Deployment

BEAD – Headaches, Hurdles, and Headway – Dispatches from the Front Lines

Join Dr. Justin Fazzari, Sanborn Geospatial’s Senior Broadband Strategist and Jenna Leveille, VP of State and Local Government Practice as they discuss the necessity for local governments to develop a … Read more

The State(s) of BEAD

Let’s Talk BEAD: Southeast States

We’re in the heart of BEAD, its challenge processes, volume two’s being cured, and soon subgrantee selection. Mountain Connect is bringing State Broadband Offices together to discuss how each respective … Read more

Emerging Technologies

How Video and Emerging Bundles Impact Broadband Uptake

Let’s explore the dynamic landscape of the video industry, focusing on major trends reshaping business development. It delves into the profound impact of streaming evolution on business strategies, examining how … Read more

Community Broadband Case Studies

Sustainable Solutions for Connecting Regions and Communities

We want to invite you to join an exciting panel discussion that will focus on the development of high-speed internet service for Region 10 in Colorado. The panel will include … Read more

Community Development

The American Connection Corps: Closing the Digital Divide through National Service

Aspiring young leaders are craving clear pathways to stable, socially impactful careers. Nonprofits and governments in communities nationwide are in dire need of bright and ambitious talent to tackle challenges … Read more

2:15 pm

Wednesday Afternoon Exhibit Hall Hours

  • 2:15 pm to 3:15 pm
  • Plaza Exhibit Foyer

3:15 pm

Broadband Equity, Access & Deployment

How Community Anchors Promote Broadband Deployment and Adoption

Community Anchor Institutions are the cornerstones of a successful broadband plan. Some state broadband plans recognize that deploying fiber to the anchor institutions first can make it easier and more … Read more

The State(s) of BEAD

The Blurring Lines Between Middle Mile and Edge

Edge computing and networking will see an exponential growth overtaking the growth curve of Cloud computing and networking. This will be possible due to the hundreds of billions of dollars … Read more

Community Broadband Case Studies

Efficiency in Every Connection: Engineering Design Strategies for Broadband Expansion

In response to the commitment made by the United States government to bridge the digital divide, initiatives across the nation are accelerating broadband expansion with specific timelines and service obligations. … Read more

Community Development

Fiber Network Design Considerations for Rural Broadband

Government funding from the Capital Projects Fund, State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund, and starting this year BEAD will combine with matching private funds to result in over $100B of … Read more

Community Development

Community is Key for Rural Network Sustainability

The panel and the discussion is to focus on the how Associations, ISP, Venders and Local Leadership has to address affordability, digital literacy and device ownership in rural areas  Any … Read more

4:00 pm

General Session

The BEAD Conundrum: Why an All-Fiber Approach May be Insufficient (or Inadequate)?

Since BEAD was announced in 2022, many in our industry have heavily promoted fiber as the only plausible infrastructure to deploy.  History would suggest that this strategy has notable flaws … Read more

4:35 pm

EXHIBITOR MOVE-OUT

CARRIER CHECK-IN DEADLINE 5:00 PM OUTBOUND SHIPPING AGREEMENT DEADLINE: 6:00 PM All exhibitors must submit an outbound Material Handling Agreement to the Exhibitor Service Desk. RE-ROUTE DEADLINE 6:00 PM  Shipments … Read more

  • 4:35 pm to 6:00 pm
  • Plaza Exhibit Foyer

4:45 pm

General Session

Closing Remarks

Conference Closing Remarks