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The Texas Edge:
Strategy, Insight & Innovation
The Future’s Retreat is an exclusive opportunity for General Managers, CEOs, executive-level staff, and board members to come together for meaningful dialogue and forward-focused planning.
Hosted in the serene setting of Inn of the Mountain Gods, this retreat will provide a space to step away from daily operations and focus on what’s ahead for Texas broadband. Topics will include state and federal funding opportunities, emerging regulatory landscapes, and strategic economic development initiatives designed to support growth and innovation in your communities.
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We’ll kick things off with optional golf tee times on August 12 for those interested in networking in a more relaxed setting. Then, we’ll dive into two days of collaborative sessions, peer discussions, and strategic planning.
This retreat is designed to equip Texas broadband leaders with insight, inspiration, and actionable ideas for navigating the future with confidence.
Hotel Reservations
Inn of the Mountain Gods
Ruidoso, New Mexico
Reservations: (575) 464-7059
Code: TSTCI Block
Make your reservation by July 4, 2025
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Session Topics
Uncharted Waters: The Future of BEAD Under the New Administration
Many of the players in the Federal Telecom consulting, analytics, and advocacy arena are using terms like uncharted waters and unprecedented times to describe the new administration’s approach to telecom programs. Under the leadership of U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, (and potentially Arielle Roth), a comprehensive review and overhaul of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program is underway.
This talk will delve into the key changes being discussed and implemented to revamp the BEAD program. The new administration is prioritizing the reduction of government red tape and the acceleration of infrastructure construction, aiming to minimize delays and waste. We will explore the implications of these changes for rural broadband providers and the BEAD program as a whole. Join us to gain insights into the new administration's vision for the BEAD program and how it aims to deliver high-speed internet access efficiently and effectively to all Americans.
Kevin Sievert, Senior Broadband Strategy Manager | Calix
Texas Economic Outlook
The Dallas Federal Reserve's 2025 Texas Economic Outlook describes a mixed economic landscape, with some signs of resilience and others indicating potential slowdowns. While job growth remains strong, surveys suggest a slight decrease in economic activity, particularly in the service and manufacturing sectors. Increased uncertainty and concerns about softening demand are also being reported, potentially driven by factors like tariffs and decreased immigration.
Luis Torres | Dallas Federal Bank
Unlocking Rural Subscriber Behavior: Highlights from the 2025 Rural Subscriber Study
What do rural subscribers want? Discover insights from an annual study on rural subscriber behavior to help BSPs better understand and engage their audience. This collaborative research explores how rural customers become brand advocates, the messaging channels they prefer, and the key factors driving their purchasing decisions.
We will identify rural subscribers’ unique communication preferences, offering actionable strategies to help BSPs connect with this demographic in more meaningful ways. This session is essential for BSPs seeking to refine their approach to rural consumers and develop campaigns that resonate, drive loyalty, and boost business outcomes.
Jennifer Pavileck, Sales Director | Innovative Systems
Addressing the Elephant in the Room
GMs and their leadership teams are being hit from all sides with constant change. Beyond the last four years creating “grant fatigue”, coupled with the 5th Circuit viewpoints on USF, now there is significant disruption in Washington. On top of these regulatory and government issues, we see new investment opportunities with AI and digital infrastructure,
as well as accelerating competition from the mobile industry and LEOs. Oh, and by the way, you still have to manage your business, your customers, your employees, and meet the needs of the community. Not hard, right? The one issue that no one is voicing aloud is this – can we survive what’s to come?
This session is intended to be a thought-provoking discussion on the trends and issues impacting rural ILECs & the risks to our businesses and communities if we don’t navigate this change well. Attendees will not only better understand the chessboard, but will be armed with actionable tips and strategies that leaders can take back to their businesses to manage all the change.
Terry Chevalier, Managing Director| Sunstone Associates