March 2, 2026—Representatives from small and medium-sized independent operators, communications industry vendors, and rural broadband advocates will gather tomorrow in Washington, D.C., to kick off Summit 2026 with America’s Communications Association (ACA Connects).
The Association’s annual fly‑in event prepares attendees for high‑impact discussions with lawmakers and regulators on policies that shape the future of the nation’s broadband and video infrastructure. The Summit equips providers with the insights and advocacy tools they need to continue building strong networks and delivering affordable, reliable services in the communities they serve.
“America’s Communications Association members are building and investing every day to bridge the digital divide,” said Grant Spellmeyer, President and CEO of America’s Communications Association. “Summit 2026 amplifies that work. We’re here to build relationships with policymakers to drive home the real-world impact of a light‑touch, pro‑investment regulatory environment—one that ensures our providers can grow, innovate, and keep America connected.”
“The Summit is our PREMIER event of the year. It’s a unique opportunity for America’s independent broadband providers to speak with a STRONG and UNITED VOICE,” said Patricia Jo Boyers, President/CEO & Co-Founder of BOYCOM Vision and Chairman of America’s Communications Association. “We’ll be advocating and standing up for the FREEDOM to run our businesses, serve our communities, and keep America #RURALBROADBANDSTRONG!”
“ACA Connects members have deep roots in their communities and are investing in their networks every day to deliver best-in-class broadband services,” said John Reardon, President and CEO of Schurz Communications, Inc. & Vice Chairman of America’s Communications Association. “I look forward to the Summit every year. It never fails to deliver game‑changing insights we need to navigate an evolving regulatory landscape and advocate effectively for our industry.
This year’s theme— “We’re Building Connections, Relationships, and Communities”— sets the stage for high‑level discussions with key lawmakers and industry leaders.
On Wednesday, March 4, Summit attendees will hear from Congressman Brett Guthrie (R‑KY), Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. His appearance comes at a pivotal moment as Congress works on permitting reform and the administration awards historic investments to accelerate broadband deployment nationwide.
Additional speakers include Deputy Assistant Director of the FBI Cyber Division’s Intelligence Branch Michael Machtinger, GCI CEO Ron Duncan, and policy experts and government affairs specialists from ACA Connects.
On Thursday, March 5, Summit participants will visit Capitol Hill and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for advocacy meetings focused on keeping broadband and video services affordable, ensuring timely deployment of next‑generation infrastructure, and supporting policies that empower community-based providers.
For real-time updates, follow ACA Connects and #Summit2026 on X and LinkedIn.
Members of the press interested in attending the Summit should contact Olivia Shields at [email protected].
America’s Communications Association (ACA Connects) is a trade organization representing approximately 500 small and medium-sized, independent companies that provide high-speed internet, video, phone, and mobile services covering 29 million households. ACA Connects members operate in every state, providing advanced communications to connect homes, companies, main street, schools, hospitals and more. America’s economic prosperity in smaller communities and rural areas depends on the growth and success of independent operators, who believe a connected nation is a prosperous nation. For more information, visit www.acaconnects.org.