Kansas Tech CEO Ben Foster Takes on Vice Chair Role at NTCA Board
In a significant leadership move, Ben Foster has been elected as the Vice Chair of the National Broadband Association (NTCA) Board for the year 2025. Foster is the President and CEO of Twin Valley and ISG Technology, the largest independently owned broadband and communications company in Kansas. This appointment marks a pivotal moment not only in his career but also for rural broadband initiatives across the nation.
Twin Valley is currently experiencing rapid growth, particularly in rural Kansas, where it acts as a provider of fiber and IT services for small to medium-sized businesses. In addition to this, ISG Technology is recognized as a leading competitor in the mid to enterprise level IT services sector, operating in multiple states including Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma.
The NTCA, representing nearly 850 independent broadband companies, is dedicated to advancing policy efforts that address the digital divide. It serves as an advocate for its members, ensuring their voices are heard in both legislative and regulatory discussions. The association is involved in numerous educational programs, from publishing industry research to hosting various events designed to foster growth and knowledge within the broadband community.
Foster expressed his commitment to focusing on rural perspectives within national broadband policy discussions. "NTCA plays a crucial role in setting industry policies and bringing significant legislative matters to the attention of lawmakers," he noted. His goal as Vice Chair is to amplify the needs of local providers and the communities they serve, ensuring they are included in policy-making processes.
As part of its pledge to rural communities, Twin Valley has committed to building a resilient broadband network and engaging in outreach initiatives aimed at improving digital inclusion. Foster highlighted that federal funding and sound industry policy are critical factors in fulfilling these commitments.
Having a profound understanding of the industry, Foster's experience includes previous terms on the NTCA board from 2011 to 2014, and again from 2022 until his new appointment. His expertise is further complemented by his role as a member of the Kansas Fiber Network board. His return to the NTCA board as Vice Chair follows a tenure in which he also served as secretary/treasurer, showcasing his long-standing dedication to the advancement of broadband services in rural America.
Joining him are fellow board officers Roxie Jorgenson, who will serve as Chair, and Ross Petrick, serving as secretary/treasurer. The board looks forward to a collaborative year ahead, focusing on implementing a strategic plan aimed at ensuring the sustainability of the Universal Service Fund, a crucial aspect of supporting rural broadband.
Twin Valley, a family-owned enterprise, has built a reputation over the past 80 years for delivering innovative technology and connectivity solutions across the central U.S. The company's motto emphasizes unlocking possibilities for its customers, providing them with a robust combination of broadband, mobile services, home security, and managed IT support, tailored for both residential and business needs.
As a leader, Foster remains dedicated to the company’s mission. They continue to strive for optimum service reliability and actively engage in community outreach to enhance digital access in underserved areas. To learn more about their initiatives, visit twinvalley.com/pledge. The NTCA, likewise, plays a vital role in empowering rural communities through innovative broadband solutions, addressing pressing needs in economic development, healthcare, and education, contributing significantly to the U.S. economy. For additional information about NTCA, visit www.ntca.org.