After a successful year of working to close the broadband connectivity gap throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, the Virginia, Maryland and Delaware Association of Broadband Cooperatives (VMDABC) hosted its fourth annual Rural Fiber Expo in Annapolis, Md. The expo previewed the path forward for rural broadband connectivity efforts throughout the region.
CEOs of the member broadband cooperatives spoke about the challenges to the deployment of broadband in rural areas and the innovative solutions employ
ed to overcome these challenges. The group looked to the past, present and future to see what broadband expansion will look like in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Casey Logan, president and CEO of EMPOWER Broadband and Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative, and VMDABC board chairman, opened the expo by reflecting on the journey the organization had undertaken over the past year.
“When we look back, we see a tapestry woven with hard work, innovation and unwavering dedication. Our team has surpassed expectations, achieving milestones that once seemed ambitious,” he said.
“Through countless hours of effort, creativity and collaboration, the VMDABC has expanded our market presence, received more grant dollars for expansion and strengthened our relationships with the legislature and the Department of Housing and Community Development,” said Logan.
“Together, we have built something truly remarkable. As we celebrate our achievements, we must also look to the future with optimism and determination. The landscape is ever-changing, and we must remain agile and innovative to stay ahead. We will carry forward the spirit of collaboration, innovation and excellence that defines the VMDABC organization.”
Priscilla Whirley, manager of communications and marketing for EMPOWER Broadband and Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative, participated in a roundtable discussion with fellow marketing professionals of member broadband cooperatives in the VMDABC. The group discussed topics such as best practices in marketing and communications, community engagement and customer satisfaction.
“Deploying high-speed internet to our rural communities, while providing the same cooperative-driven experience that our Members and our communities have come to know and trust from MEC for over 85 years, is EMPOWER’s cornerstone,” said Whirley. “The expo was a great opportunity to talk with and learn from other rural cooperative-owned broadband providers, to exchange ideas and experiences.”
