TL;DR

  • Broadband expansion is moving from planning to execution, bringing increased focus on BEAD funding distribution, state-level implementation strategies and the regulatory and operational challenges of large-scale deployment.
  • AI is reshaping network design, deployment and operations, driving demand for scalable, low-latency infrastructure while enabling greater automation and efficiency across service delivery.
  • Fiber remains the backbone of connectivity, supported by a mix of technologies including fixed wireless, satellite and 5G, with open access models and partnerships helping expand coverage and improve long-term economic outcomes.

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Connected America 2026 brought together the broadband and digital infrastructure community in Dallas, Texas, April 14–15, convening more than 1,500 connectivity leaders and over 175 speakers from across telecom, policy, investment and technology. Through two days of keynote sessions, panels and networking discussions, the event focused on how the industry is evolving to support next-generation broadband, AI-driven networks and nationwide connectivity expansion, while highlighting the growing importance of collaboration between public and private stakeholders as the U.S. works to modernize its digital infrastructure.

A key highlight of the event was participation from Ilissa Miller, CEO of iMiller Public Relations (iMPR). Ilissa spoke on the panel “From Resistance to Readiness: Why Communities Need a Digital Infrastructure Framework,” where she addressed the importance of aligning developers, policymakers and local communities through structured frameworks that prioritize transparency, education and long-term planning. Her participation reinforced iMPR’s ongoing role in shaping industry dialogue around responsible infrastructure development and community engagement.

Broadband expansion and policy were central themes throughout the event. Multiple sessions explored the progress and challenges associated with the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, including how states are balancing federal requirements with local implementation strategies and how funding is being deployed to close connectivity gaps. As broadband initiatives move from planning to execution, discussions highlighted the operational and regulatory complexities shaping large-scale deployment efforts.

Artificial intelligence and next-generation networks also played a major role in shaping the conversation. Industry leaders examined how AI is transforming network design, deployment and performance, while also increasing demand for scalable, low-latency infrastructure. Sachin Gupta, SVP & GM of Application Platforms & Services at Comcast, discussed how AI and automation are transforming network operations and enabling more efficient service delivery at scale.

Fiber infrastructure remained a foundational topic throughout the agenda. Keynotes and panels addressed the continued expansion of fiber networks, the economics of overbuild and return on investment, and how operators are leveraging AI to optimize fiber deployment and maintenance. At the same time, discussions around middle-mile infrastructure emphasized the importance of building scalable backbone networks to support last-mile connectivity and nationwide coverage.Sessions explored how technologies such as fiber, fixed wireless, satellite and 5G will work together to deliver resilient, high-capacity networks capable of supporting future workloads.

Stephen Rose, CEO of Render Networks, highlighted the role of digitization in accelerating fiber deployment and improving construction outcomes. Executives from IQGeo emphasized how geospatial intelligence and real-time network visibility are supporting more resilient and adaptive infrastructure planning.

Additional discussions featured leaders from UTOPIA Fiber and the Community Broadband Action Network, who explored how open access models and collaborative infrastructure strategies are shaping deployment across U.S. markets. Panels focused on how municipalities and private operators can work together to expand broadband access, improve competition and deliver long-term economic value to underserved communities.

Beyond infrastructure, the event also provided a platform for broader industry engagement, including meetings between operators, investors and technology providers exploring partnership opportunities, project development and market expansion. These interactions are critical to advancing the next phase of broadband deployment and reinforcing Connected America’s role as a key convening point for the industry.

Looking ahead, Connected America continues to serve as a critical platform for advancing broadband policy, investment and infrastructure development. As deployment accelerates and technologies evolve, the event remains a central forum for shaping how the United States builds and scales the next generation of digital infrastructure.

To learn more about Connected America and stay updated on future announcements, visit the official event website and explore opportunities to participate in upcoming programs.