Special to the Times Vedette
The Iowa Communications Alliance’s Leadership Academy launched the 2025-2026 session on Oct. 15. The in-person program is designed to help strengthen and encourage emerging leaders in the broadband industry across the state of Iowa. Participants are selected through a competitive application process submitted by individuals at ICA member companies. Congratulations to this year’s Leadership Academy participants:
- Ryan Boll, Controller – Central Broadband
- Paul Brewster, Combination Technician – Panora Fiber
- Carrie Dideriksen, Office Manager – Coon Valley Cooperative Telephone Association
- Robin Jenness, Operations Manager – WesTel Systems
- Stacy Kutzli, Executive Coordinator – Farmers Mutual Telephone Company of Stanton
- Sarah Ogden, Customer Experience Manager – Farmers Mutual Communications – Moulton
- Kathi Patten, Accounting Manager – Heart of Iowa Communications
- Austin Promes, Outside Plant Technician – Webster Calhoun Cooperative Telephone Association
- Katie Rogers, Senior Manager of Member Services – NECA
- Brad Schmitt, Plant Manager – Butler-Bremer Communications
- Lydia Walter, HR Generalist – South Slope Cooperative Communications
- Jackson Willette, Network Operations and IT Infrastructure Manager – Sharon Telephone Company
Over the next six months, the class will receive training in a variety of areas including: time management, delegation, HR basics, building positive company culture, presentation skills and goal setting. The Leadership Academy will conclude with a graduation ceremony in March 2026 as part of ICA’s Annual Meeting of Members in Des Moines.
“In today’s rapidly evolving communications landscape, technical expertise alone isn’t enough,” ICA Board President Tammy Wheeler (Farmers Mutual Communication) said. “The future of broadband depends on leaders who can inspire teams, navigate change and champion innovation. That’s why our association proudly promotes and supports the ICA Leadership Academy. It’s more than a training program; it’s a launchpad for emerging talent and a catalyst for seasoned professionals to sharpen their strategic edge.”
“Panora Fiber is incredibly proud that Paul Brewster was selected for the 2025-2026 Leadership Academy hosted by the Iowa Communications Alliance,” Panora Fiber CEO/GM Andrew Randol said. “For the next six months, Paul will be engaging with top broadband leaders across the state, sharing his knowledge, and developing new skills. We know this experience will help him grow into an even better leader for Panora Fiber and, most importantly, for our customers. Congratulations, Paul, on this well-deserved recognition.”
To learn more about the ICA Leadership Academy, visit www.IaCommunicationsAll.org.