46th Annual Summer Convention and Tradeshow
July 25-29, 2009
The Broadmoor
Colorado Springs, Colorado
OPASTCO Reaching the Summit of the Broadband Era
OPASTCO's 46th Annual Summer Convention and Tradeshow saw rural telecommunications soar to new heights amidst the spectacular Rocky Mountains at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. Attendees took full advantage of both an inspiring setting and invaluable educational and networking opportunities to prepare their own companies for the next chapters in their successful histories.
This convention marked the debut of a revamped break-out session format, designed especially for the three types of professionals at the heart of every rural carrier: Management, Marketing and Technical. Meanwhile, the general sessions featured timely addresses and panel discussions on the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) program audits and federal broadband economic stimulus funding programs. Guest Speaker John F. Cassidy spoke of how his company, Cincinnati Bell, was thriving in an increasingly competitive and uncertain industry, while Keynote Speaker Donald Cooper shared ideas for creatively repositioning attendees' current products and services for a new generation of customers.
Attendees made time, too, for this year's sold-out tradeshow, which featured a wide range of exhibitors dedicated especially to rural telecommunications. This summer's golf tournament took place at the Mountain Golf Course, located on The Broadmoor property. OPASTCO members also turned out to celebrate the Foundation for Rural Education and Development's 20th birthday, the proceeds of which went toward support of FRED's educational and community development programs.
Click here to view and order photos from the convention.
Convention Presentations
Click here to access presentations from the forums, rountables, tradeshow and workshops.