Tennessee Broadband Association annual convention spotlights connecting Tennessee

Sold-out vendor showcase a hit among attendees

Franklin — The Tennessee Broadband Association hosted its annual convention and showcase in Franklin this week at the Marriott Cool Springs, drawing more than 300 attendees.

The convention opened with a video highlighting everything that makes Tennessee great — including access to fast, reliable broadband. TNBA President Chris Townson, NTCA—The Rural Broadband Association CEO Shirley Bloomfield and Rep. Kevin Vaughan addressed attendees, spotlighting how members are #ConnectingTN.

Keynote speakers included Tennessee Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton; NTCA Vice President – Federal Regulatory Brian Ford; NTIA Telecommunication Policy Analyst Amanda Herrera; Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development Broadband Director Taylre Beaty and Assistant Commissioner of Community & Rural Development Brooxie Carlton; and Rock ‘n’ Roll Thought Leader Sandy Gennaro.

“Tennessee is a special place to be,” TNBA Executive Director Carrie Huckeby said. “Our members work tirelessly to bring fast, reliable fiber broadband to our residents and businesses. It’s our pleasure to host this convention and shine a spotlight on connecting Tennessee.”

The vendor showcase — one of the largest ever with 59 participants — sold out well before registration closed for the event.

“Everyone is excited to be a part of what Tennessee is creating,” Townson said. “A connected Tennessee is a better Tennessee and we strive to ensure the unserved and underserved have access to high-speed fiber broadband.”

The convention offered numerous breakout sessions with topics ranging from ransomware to customer service.

“We look forward to this convention every year and this year’s conference was successful in our goal of providing many takeaways and bringing more awareness,” says Loretto Telecom General Manager and TNBA Vice President Jason Shelton. “We all have a unified mission of connecting Tennessee. We’ve come a long way, and we have a ways to go. This convention serves as a celebration of our accomplishments and where we are headed.”