TNBA Convention: Questions Answered, Plans Laid

Another convention has flown by, and this was a great 1!

The Tennessee Broadband Association (TNBA) Annual Convention & Showcase is a platform for networking, information sharing, and a glimpse into the future of the broadband industry. Those goals certainly came alive June 4 through 6 in Franklin, when industry leaders and innovators provided attendees with new knowledge and inspiration.

Shirley Bloomfield, CEO of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, discussed the digital divide and how broadband is built to last technology. She encouraged attendees to “tell your stories.”

The “Investing in a #ConnectedTN” panel featured Taylre Beaty, Broadband Program Director for the Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development, and Paige Shapiro, Technical Assistance Advisor for Tennessee at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. They fielded questions on what living in a #ConnectedTN means and what’s next once the state is fully connected. A key takeaway was how quickly we’ve made progress. Taylre and Paige did a wonderful job painting a picture of where we began, where we are now, and where we’re going. Our moderator, BTC Fiber CEO Charlie Boring did a great job keeping the information flowing.

Back by popular demand, the “What’s on Your Mind” panel with Shirley and Twin Lakes CEO Jonathan West addressed a range of topics, including AI and workforce talent. DTC CEO Chris Townson moderated the discussion asking and fielding questions from the audience.

Wrapping the general session, Keynote Speaker Ryan Avery offered thoughts on how to be “the leader instead of a leader.” Ryan also facilitated the sales and marketing breakout session, sharing words to drop from your vocabulary like, “just,” “think” and “sorry.” 1 of my favorite takeaways: “If you’re unsure about your tone, pick up the phone.” This shift could certainly eliminate some misunderstandings.

The well-attended breakout sessions had something for everyone: BEAD supply chain, cybersecurity, disaster recovery, financing, and customer service. We thank our members for submitting speaker proposals and putting in the work to prepare and present.

Thursday’s 66-booth showcase concluded the event. More than 300 attendees and guests talked about innovations and broadband equipment. Tennessee College of Applied Technology Hohenwald students—many of whom graduate in August—toured the show. Students shared their feedback and takeaways, with many mentioning the opportunities in telecommunications, the vast number of places to find work, and how elaborate and complex the industry is.

We were thrilled to see our members, industry friends, and peers. We encourage you to mark your calendars for the Kentucky Rural Broadband Association and TNBA joint conference set for October 21 through 23 at the Franklin Cool Springs Marriott. We will be celebrating 30 years of collaboration!

Thank you all for making this convention 1 to remember!