Fiber Broadband Association Reveals Award Winners at Fiber Connect 2026
The popular annual Fiber Connect event brings together the “leaders, innovators, and visionaries shaping the future of fiber broadband”. The event also includes the Fiber Broadband Association’s annual awards ceremony with the 2026 winners being celebrated at the 25th Anniversary Awards Gala.
The awards honor companies, individuals, and innovations that are moving the fiber broadband industry forward and create a long-term impact on communities.
“This year’s honorees represent the vision, execution, and influence advancing fiber broadband throughout the industry,” said Gary Bolton, President and CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association. “From accelerating deployments to strengthening communities, these leaders are setting a new standard for what’s possible with fiber. Congratulations to our 2026 award winners.”
Winners and award descriptions are listed below from the Fiber Broadband Association.
Photon Award: Paul Breakman, VP, Americas Partners & Business Development, Adtran
Honors an individual whose volunteer service demonstrates exceptional dedication to the Association and the industry.
Star Award: Surf Internet
Recognizes a company or community that goes above and beyond in advancing fiber to the home.
Fiber Under Forty Award: Alex King, Director of Broadband, Blue Ridge Mountain EMC
Recognizing individuals born in 1986 or later who are making an impact on their companies or the broader fiber broadband industry.
Women Changing Fiber for Good Award: Tzeitel Buchanan, Lead, Lumen’s Tribal Center of Excellence; Volunteer & Community Leader, Lumen
Celebrating women whose contributions are improving the fiber broadband industry and leaving a lasting legacy.
Advocacy Allstars Award: Chris Champion, Vice President of Government Relations, C Spire
Honoring individuals working to advance the agenda of the fiber broadband industry at the state and federal levels.
Community Impact Award: ALLO Fiber: ALLO Fiber Smart Schools
Highlighting fiber broadband projects that are transforming communities and changing lives across North America.
Product Innovation Award: EPB, EPB Quantum Network®
Showcasing technological advancements that enhance fiber broadband’s ability to meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s customers.
Constellation Award: ADB Companies and Render Networks
Celebrating coalitions of companies that joined forces to advance fiber broadband networks across communities, states, and regions.
Gene Scott Education Award: Mark Boxer, Technical Manager, Solutions and Applications Engineering, Lightera
Recognizes a person, community, or institution that has made a significant impact on fiber industry education.