Brad Welch, the CEO and General Manager of CentraCom, has been named to the Board of Directors of USTelecom – The Broadband Association, according to reports from the Herald-Extra and USTelecom. Welch's appointment, announced in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 23, 2026, provides the regional provider with a voice in national discussions regarding network investment and broadband policy.
National Industry Representation
Welch, who is based in Fairview, Utah, joined the board alongside Kristi Westbrock, the CEO and General Manager of CTC of Brainerd, Minnesota, as part of the association's 2026 leadership announcements. The appointment allows CentraCom to contribute to national conversations concerning the future of broadband and the various policies that influence the development and maintenance of communications networks.
Focus on Rural Connectivity
As a representative of a regional provider, Welch is expected to help guide USTelecom's efforts regarding policies that affect broadband deployment, infrastructure investment, and access to reliable connectivity. These discussions are considered particularly impactful for rural communities, where the ability to invest in infrastructure can determine the success of extending service to challenging-to-reach areas.
Leadership Committee Roles
In addition to his seat on the Board of Directors, Welch serves as the vice chair of USTelecom's Leadership Committee. This committee is designed to convene local and regional broadband providers to discuss industry matters. Welch joins other newly appointed members of the Leadership Committee, including Dustin Durden, CEO of Pineland Telephone Cooperative of Metter, Georgia; Charlie Greenberg, President of BTEL of Brazoria, Texas; and Matt Post, President of PhireLink of Slidell, Louisiana.
About USTelecom
USTelecom describes itself as the nation's leading trade association for broadband providers, technology companies, innovators, suppliers, and manufacturers. The organization works to expand connectivity across the country and represents the various entities involved in building and operating communications networks.
Board Re-elections
The association also announced the re-election of several officers for its Board of Directors. Jeff England of Silver Star Communications was re-elected as Chair, Jennifer Prather of Totelcom Communications was re-elected as Vice Chair, Melissa Mann of Lumen was re-elected as Secretary, and Russell "Rusty" Moore of BBT was re-elected as Treasurer. Within the Leadership Committee, Joshua Descant of REV was re-elected as Chair, and Kristi Westbrock of CTC was re-elected as Secretary.
Regional Impact
CentraCom, where Welch serves as CEO and General Manager, is a regional communications provider that serves communities in Utah and the surrounding region. The company's participation in USTelecom reflects broader industry efforts to support broadband deployment and connectivity through national advocacy.
The appointment of regional leaders like Welch aims to bring the specific experiences and needs of local providers to a national stage, ensuring that the requirements of rural and regional areas are considered in the evolution of broadband infrastructure and policy.
