Cordova Telecom Cooperative, Incorporated: Company Profile

Background

Established in 1978, Cordova Telecom Cooperative, Incorporated (CTC) is a member-owned cooperative based in Cordova, Alaska. CTC is dedicated to providing high-quality, competitively priced communication services to Cordova and the surrounding areas. The cooperative's mission is to enhance connectivity and support the community's technological needs. Over the years, CTC has expanded its services to include telephone, high-speed internet, television, and wireless communications. Notably, in 1997, CTC founded Cordova Wireless Communications (CWC) to offer cellular voice, text, and data services to Cordova, Prince William Sound, and Yakutat, Alaska.

Key Strategic Focus

CTC's strategic focus centers on:

• Infrastructure Development: Enhancing and expanding communication networks to improve service reliability and speed.

• Community Engagement: Actively participating in local events, supporting businesses, and contributing to community initiatives.

• Technological Advancement: Implementing cutting-edge technologies to meet the evolving needs of its members.

• Service Expansion: Extending services to underserved and remote areas to bridge the digital divide.

Financials and Funding

CTC has secured significant funding to support its infrastructure projects:

• USDA ReConnect Round 4 Grant (2023): Awarded $34,905,000 to install a submarine fiber-optic cable from Cordova to Juneau, deliver Fiber-To-The-Home in Pelican, and extend fiber branches to Yakutat, Gustavus, and Hoonah.

• USDA ReConnect Round 3 Grant (2022): Received $21,404,940 to provide Fiber-To-The-Home in Cordova and establish a submarine fiber line from Cordova to Seward, with branches to Johnstone Point and the Village of Chenega.

• USDA Community Connect Grant (2022): Secured $3,000,000 to deliver high-speed broadband internet to the Village of Chenega.

These grants, combined with CTC's matching funds, represent a substantial investment in the region's communication infrastructure.

Pipeline Development

CTC's pipeline development includes:

• FISH in SEAK Project: A 560-mile submarine fiber-optic cable connecting Cordova to Juneau, with branches to Pelican, Yakutat, Gustavus, and Hoonah. Supported by a $35 million USDA grant and $12 million in matching funds, installation is expected in 2027.

• FISH in AK Project: A submarine fiber line from Cordova to Seward, with branches to Johnstone Point and the Village of Chenega. Funded by a $21.4 million USDA grant and $7.1 million in matching funds, installation is planned for 2026.

• Chenega High-Speed Internet Project (CHIP): Delivering Fiber-To-The-Premises to the Village of Chenega, funded by a $3 million USDA grant.

Technological Platform and Innovation

CTC employs several innovative technologies:

• Fiber-Optic Infrastructure: Utilizing advanced fiber-optic cables to provide high-speed internet and reliable communication services.

• Wireless Communications: Through CWC, offering cellular voice, text, and data services across Cordova, Prince William Sound, and Yakutat.

• Submarine Fiber Lines: Establishing undersea cables to connect remote communities, enhancing regional connectivity.

Leadership Team

CTC's Board of Directors comprises:

• Wendy Ranney: President, elected in 2024, term ends in 2027. Board member since 2021.

• Sarah Trumblee: Vice President, elected in 2023, term ends in 2026. Board member since 2020.

• Ben Simpler: Secretary, elected in 2025, term ends in 2028. Board member since 2018.

• Ryan McManus: Treasurer, elected in 2023, term ends in 2026. Board member since 2019.

• Barb Bailer: Director, elected in 2024, term ends in 2027. Board member since 2018.

• Heath Kocan: Director, elected in 2024, term ends in 2027. Board member since 2024.

• Dawn Gonzalez: Director, elected in 2025, term ends in 2028. Board member since 2025.

Market Overview and Competitor Analysis

The telecommunications market in Alaska is characterized by:

• Geographical Challenges: Remote and rugged terrain necessitates innovative infrastructure solutions.

• Limited Competition: CTC serves as a primary provider in Cordova, with few competitors in the region.

• Community Focus: As a member-owned cooperative, CTC emphasizes local engagement and service.

CTC's primary competitors include:

• GCI Communication Corp.: A major telecommunications provider in Alaska, offering a range of services.

• Copper Valley Telecom: Provides services in nearby regions, including internet and wireless communications.

• Astound Broadband: Operates in various cities but does not compete directly in Cordova.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

CTC has formed strategic partnerships to enhance its services:

• GCI Partnership: Collaborated on the FISH in SEAK project to improve network redundancy and expand broadband access.

• Pioneer Consulting: Engaged for engineering and design of submarine cable projects, ensuring technical expertise.

Operational Insights

CTC's operational considerations include:

• Infrastructure Investment: Significant funding from USDA grants and matching funds to develop and maintain infrastructure.

• Community Engagement: Active participation in local events and support for community initiatives to strengthen member relations.

• Technological Advancement: Continuous adoption of advanced technologies to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

CTC's strategic roadmap focuses on:

• Infrastructure Expansion: Completing ongoing projects to enhance connectivity and service reliability.

• Service Diversification: Exploring new services and technologies to meet the diverse needs of members.

• Community Development: Strengthening community ties through engagement and support for local initiatives.

Contact Information

• Website: ctcak.net

• Social Media: Facebook page for Cordova Telecom Cooperative