2024 Schedule


SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2024
2:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m.	Registration Open Plaza Ballroom A Foyer Sponsored by
5:30 p.m.–7:00 p.m.	Sunday Night Welcome Reception BEZEL Bar at the Sheraton Downtown Denver Sponsored by Kick off your INCOMPAS Show with a relaxed happy hour where you can catch up with old friends and make new ones before you get down to business. We are taking over the BEZEL Bar, a hidden gem tucked away within the Sheraton’s lobby, providing an exclusive and intimate vibe. Known for their craft cocktails, the smoked Old Fashioned can’t be missed. Check in to the hotel on Sunday and then check out our Welcome Happy Hour. Join us for a casual drink on your way to your room, or before you head out to dinner and a night on the town.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2024
7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.	Registration Open Plaza Ballroom A Foyer Sponsored by
7:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.	Exhibit Hall and Sponsor Meeting Rooms Open Plaza Exhibit Hall
7:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.	Deal Center Open Plaza Ballroom DE Deal Center sponsored by
7:30 a.m.–8:30 a.m.	Breakfast & Learn Plaza Ballroom ABC Sponsored by The Changing Nature of Business Communications: A Roadmap for Service Providers The landscape for business communications has changed radically over the past several years, as the traditional vendors supplying products and services to the SP are moving away from the market. This leaves service providers (SPs) looking at their long-term product strategy and seeking new technology partners. This presentation will discuss this transition and present options that SPs should consider as they move into this next phase of their PBX/UC service offerings. Speaker: Brian Gregory, Senior Director, Product Marketing, Intermedia Cloud Communications
7:30 a.m.–8:30 a.m.	Attendee Breakfast Plaza Exhibit Hall Sponsored by
8:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.	Specialty Coffee INCOMPAS Bar - Plaza Exhibit Hall Sponsored by
8:30 a.m.–8:45 a.m.	Opening Remarks Plaza Ballroom ABC Chip Pickering, CEO, INCOMPAS Michael Galvin, Chief Administrative Officer, Granite Telecommunications, LLC
8:45 a.m.–9:30 a.m.	Keynote Plaza Ballroom ABC Keynote Kenny Gunderman President and CEO Uniti Group Inc.
9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.	M&A Resurgence: The Outlook for 2025 and Beyond Plaza Ballroom ABC After several years of relative quiet, 2024 has seen an uptick on the M&A front and it’s predicted a resurgence will continue into 2025. This session will explore the key drivers behind increased M&A activity, how it will affect public and private companies, and the impact of transactions currently in process. Hear from industry experts about: Trends in valuations for different segments of the industry The lender perspective of the industry How BEAD program and public funding impacts valuations The impact of interest rates on M&A activity Moderator: Scott Widham, Managing Director, Layer 7 Capital Speakers: Jason Adkins, CEO, Bluebird Network Ryan D. Carr, Partner, M/C Partners Chad Crank, Managing Director, Grain Management James H. Henry, Senior Managing Director, Bank Street Group LLC
10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.	Exploring the Vibrant Infrastructure Ecosystem Plaza Ballroom ABC Each day in the U.S., the demand for more capacity and broadband grows exponentially. Building, connecting, and maintaining the underlying physical infrastructure to support these demands is mission-critical to our country’s future. During this session industry leaders will discuss what is driving the demand – from content to AI and more – and the physical infrastructure needed to support it. Moderator: Chip Pickering, CEO, INCOMPAS Speakers: Dan Davis, CEO & Co-Founder, Arcadian Infracom Andrés Irlando, President & COO, Zayo Group Karen Rohrkemper, Senior Vice President of Network Implementation & Operations, Crown Castle Jeff Uphues, CEO, DC BLOX
11:00 a.m.–Noon	Buyers Forum Plaza Ballroom A Foyer The INCOMPAS Show Buyers Forum features a dynamic “speed-meeting” format, free and open to all registered attendees, exhibitors and sponsors, on a first-come, first-served basis. Engage with buyers to learn more about needs for their upcoming projects; have quick, impactful meetings; or plan for more in-depth discussions later. Download the Buyers Guide to learn more about participating companies and their upcoming projects.
11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.	Attendee Lunch Plaza Exhibit Hall Sponsored by
Noon–1:00 p.m.	Lunch & Learn Plaza Ballroom ABC Sponsored by Current Wholesale Industry Trends Join us for an engaging and interactive session where industry experts will discuss the overall key trends that are shaping the wholesale industry landscape including topics such as: Fiber Growth and Dependencies: An in-depth look at the expansion of fiber networks and the critical factors influencing this growth. Real-Estate Monetization/Productization: Innovative approaches to monetizing and productizing real estate assets in the wholesale industry. Moderator: Alexander Lee, Senior Director of Hyperscale, AI & Data Centers, Frontier Communications Speakers: Rod Cameron, Vice President of Wholesale Carrier Service Operations, Frontier Communications Matt Case, Wholesale Senior Product Manager, Frontier Communications A.J. Moul, Vice President, Wholesale Sales, Frontier Communications Sean Sullivan, Vice President, Product Management & Regulatory Affairs at MetTel
1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.	Specialty Coffee INCOMPAS Bar - Plaza Exhibit Hall Sponsored by
1:15 p.m.–2:15 p.m.	ConnectForward: Telecom Tech & Policy Insights AI: Revolutionizing Telecom through Cooperative Innovation Plaza Ballroom ABC The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the telecom industry by enhancing network performance, enabling real-time decision-making, and improving customer experiences. This session will delve into the technological advancements of AI, its deployment challenges, and its impact on the cooperative and competitive dynamics among telecom service providers. Attendees will explore case studies, security considerations, and the collaborative roles of communications providers to gain insight into how AI on the edge and at the core is shaping the future of telecom, driving innovation, and fostering coopetition. This session will provide service providers with a comprehensive understanding of AI offering strategies to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities, thereby driving innovation and fostering a collaborative competitive environment. Moderator: Lindsay Stern, Attorney and Policy Manager, INCOMPAS Speakers: Brian Gregory, Senior Director, Product Marketing, Intermedia Cloud Communications Tracy Irwin Hewitt, Vice President, Data Products & Monetization, EchoStar Gary Sidhu, Senior Vice President, Product Engineering, GTT Adam Weiner, Vice President, Technology, Granite Telecommunications
2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.	Snack Station Plaza Exhibit Hall, Meeting Lounge 208 Sponsored by
2:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m.	ConnectForward: Telecom Tech & Policy Insights Enhancing Wholesale Transactions: Overcoming API Challenges for Telecom Service Providers Plaza Ballroom ABC In the evolving telecom landscape, efficient and secure digital transactions between service providers are critical for maintaining competitive edge and fostering innovation. This session will delve into the pressing API issues that hinder seamless wholesale transactions in the telecom industry. Attendees will gain insights into current standardization efforts, security measures, automation benefits, and regulatory compliance strategies. By addressing these challenges, the session aims to foster collaboration among service providers, leading to the development of common standards and robust solutions that enhance transaction efficiency and security. This session will address the current state of API standardization, security measures for API transactions, automation and efficiency, regulatory compliance issues and future trends. This session will provide service providers with actionable insights and strategies to overcome API challenges, ensuring more efficient, secure, and compliant wholesale transactions. Moderator: David Wuensch, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Axcent Networks Speakers: Ben Edmond, CEO and Founder, Connectbase Matthew Hartley, Executive Director, Product Architecture, MetTel Rick Medeiros, Vice President, Verizon Partner Solutions Anand Rathi, Senior Director, Product Management, TransUnion
3:15 p.m.–4:00 p.m.	ConnectForward: Telecom Tech & Policy Insights Navigating Rights of Way Attachments: Strategies for Successful Joint Builds and Partnerships Plaza Ballroom ABC Securing access to rights-of-way (ROW) is a critical aspect of expanding telecom infrastructure, particularly in joint builds and partnerships among service providers. This session will explore the complexities of ROW access, regulatory compliance, and the logistical challenges involved in joint infrastructure projects. Attendees will gain valuable insights into best practices for negotiating ROW, structuring partnerships, and managing joint builds effectively. By understanding these key issues, telecom companies can enhance their network deployment strategies, reduce costs, and foster innovative and lasting partnerships. Moderator: Kyle Hildebrand, Chief Revenue Officer, Vivacity Infrastructure Group Speakers: Matthew Doran, Manager, Permitting and Utilities, Crown Castle Garner Duncan, Vice President of Government/Education & Wholesale, Ezee Fiber Alberto Garcia, Government & Community Affairs Manager, Google Fiber Christopher L. Shipley, Executive Director, Public Policy, INCOMPAS
4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.	Wild Wild West Opening Night Reception Plaza Exhibit Hall Sponsored by Specialty cocktail courtesy of Saddle up and join us for a night of frontier fun at a Wild West-themed opening reception set against the stunning backdrop of the Rockies. Start off the evening with a bang and enjoy local brews and rustic, flavorful Western cuisine. Hosted on the show floor, our opening reception gives you additional time to check out our exhibitors, discover new partners and make new acquaintances. Dust off those boots, don your best cowboy hat and get ready to connect in the Wild Wild West!
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2024
7:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.	Registration Open Plaza Ballroom A Foyer Sponsored by
7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.	Exhibit Hall and Sponsor Meeting Rooms Open Plaza Exhibit Hall
7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.	Deal Center Open Plaza Ballroom DE Deal Center sponsored by
7:30 a.m.–8:30 a.m.	Breakfast & Learn Plaza Ballroom ABC Sponsored by Viaero Fiber Networks: Forging Strategic Partnerships for a Connected Future As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the need for robust and reliable fiber optic networks has never been greater. Viaero Fiber Networks is at the cutting edge of this transformation, providing the best-in-class fiber solutions empowering communities and businesses with unparalleled connectivity. Our presentation will offer an overview of Viaero Fiber Networks routes serving, and connecting Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado and Wyoming, highlighting our commitment to delivering high-speed, high-capacity fiber optic networks with all our services, committed to reliability, in between. We will discuss the significant advantages of our fiber optic technology services, coupled with our strategic approach to network deployment ensures that underserved areas, within the region we serve, gain access to top-tier connectivity therefore “bridging the digital divide”. In addition, we will emphasize our collaborative approach to building strategic partnerships. By working closely with industry leaders, local governments, and technology providers, we aim to create synergistic relationships that enhance our service offerings and expand our reach. Join us to discover how Viaero Fiber Networks is shaping the future of digital infrastructure. Learn about our vision, our achievements, and how partnering with us can lead to innovative solutions and shared success. Together, we can build a more connected and prosperous future. Speaker: Eryn Taylor, Alliance Executive, Viaero Fiber
7:30 a.m.–8:30 a.m.	Attendee Breakfast Plaza Exhibit Hall Sponsored by
8:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.	Specialty Coffee INCOMPAS Bar - Plaza Exhibit Hall
8:30 a.m.–8:45 a.m.	Opening Remarks Plaza Ballroom ABC Chip Pickering, CEO, INCOMPAS
8:45 a.m.–9:15 a.m.	Keynote: Enabling the Middle Mile – One Year Later Plaza Ballroom ABC Keynote: Sarah Bleau Director, Middle Mile Program NTIA Moderator: Angie Kronenberg, President, INCOMPAS NTIA’s Middle Mile Program provides funding for the expansion and extension of middle mile infrastructure across the United States and territories. In 2023, this program allocated $980 million to fund projects for the construction, improvement or acquisition of middle mile infrastructure. Hear from NTIA about the Enabling Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Program projects that have been awarded in the last year and how the program impacts other infrastructure initiatives.
9:15 a.m.–10:05 a.m.	The BEAD Beat: A Roundtable with Government and Industry Plaza Ballroom ABC Please join us for this session featuring industry and government representatives who will discuss the status of implementation of BEAD programs across the country and what work remains to meet the country’s goal of broadband for all. Moderator: Christopher L. Shipley, Executive Director, Public Policy, INCOMPAS Speakers: Carl Guardino, Vice President, Government Affairs & Policy, Tarana Brandy Reitter, Executive Director, Colorado Broadband Office Sarah Smith, Federal Program Officer, OICG, U.S. Department of Commerce, NTIA Brian Wagner, Chief Strategy Officer, Visionary Broadband
10:10 a.m.–10:50 a.m.	What’s New in Robocall Mitigation and Call Delivery Plaza Ballroom ABC In this session we will highlight new developments in robocall mitigation and call delivery. Our panelists will discuss how solutions to optimize call delivery and management, the use of analytics for robocall protection and the use of AI to address robocall solutions. Moderator: Christopher L. Shipley, Executive Director, Public Policy, INCOMPAS Panelists: Gerry Christensen, Head of Partnerships and Regulatory Compliance, Caller ID Reputation Anna Gentry, Senior Corporate Counsel, Microsoft Corporation John Haraburda, Product Lead - TNS Call Guardian®, TNSI Nick Reifschneider, Vice President, Network Voice Products, Sinch
11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.	Bloody Mary Bar INCOMPAS Bar in Plaza Exhibit Hall Sponsored by
11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.	Women in Tech Luncheon Plaza Ballroom ABC Sponsored by EmpowerTech: Driving Women's Leadership in Telecom Innovation As advances in technology continue to expand, how can we develop a strategic and purpose-driven approach to supporting women in tech to build the technical experience and knowledge within the telecom industry? Join our participants for an open and interactive discussion, while enjoying networking and lunch courtesy of our sponsor Arcadian Infracom Inc. Welcome Remarks: Dan Davis, CEO & Co-Founder, Arcadian Infracom Moderator: Angie Kronenberg, President, INCOMPAS Speakers: Sarah Bleau, Director, Middle Mile Program, NTIA Mignon L. Clyburn, Former Commissioner, Federal Communications Commission Jennifer Parkhill, Senior Director, Program & Project Management, Verizon Partner Solutions
11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.	Attendee Lunch Plaza Exhibit Hall
1:00 p.m.– 2:00 p.m.	Buyers Forum Plaza Ballroom A Foyer The INCOMPAS Show Buyers Forum features a dynamic “speed-meeting” format, free and open to all registered attendees, exhibitors and sponsors, on a first-come, first-served basis. Engage with buyers to learn more about needs for their upcoming projects; have quick, impactful meetings; or plan for more in-depth discussions later. Download the Buyers Guide to learn more about participating companies and their upcoming projects.
1:00 p.m.– 4:00 p.m.	Specialty Coffee INCOMPAS Bar - Plaza Exhibit Hall
4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.	Happy Hour and Dedicated Exhibit Hall Hour Plaza Exhibit Hall
5:00 p.m.	Deal Center, Meeting Rooms and Exhibit Hall Close
6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.	Disco Fever Closing Party Plaza Ballroom ABC Sponsored by Specialty cocktail courtesy of Get ready to boogie down at the most electrifying event of the year—Disco Fever Night with INCOMPAS! As the Show winds down, the night heats up with an unforgettable evening of retro cocktails and beverages, ‘70s-inspired food with a modern twist, and groovy musical stylings from a funky powerhouse party band, Wash Park Band, that will have you dancing under the shimmering lights of a disco ball.