LENORA, KS, November 13, 2024—Nex-Tech is proud to announce that Larry Sevier, former CEO and General Manager of Nex-Tech, has been awarded the 2024 Dr. Charles Kao Award by the Fiber Broadband Association. This prestigious award recognizes Sevier’s pioneering work in bringing fiber broadband to rural America. The award celebrates individuals, organizations, and companies that harness innovation to connect communities through broadband. Sevier is being honored for his early and lasting contributions to expanding rural fiber networks and for his ongoing legacy in broadband leadership.

The Dr. Charles Kao Award is presented annually on Gimme Fiber Day, an international event celebrated on November 4th, which commemorates the birthday of the inventor of fiber optics. Established in 2013 by the FTTH Council Global Alliance (FCGA), Gimme Fiber Day highlights the transformative benefits that fiber broadband brings to society and the economy.

Sevier began his career at Nex-Tech in 1986, where he spearheaded the company’s move into fiber broadband, making Nex-Tech the first U.S. service provider to connect a rural community with fiber in 1996. This achievement set a new standard, inspiring rural providers nationwide to pursue fiber connectivity. Under Sevier’s 28-year leadership, Nex-Tech prioritized expanding fiber access across rural Kansas, connecting homes, businesses, and institutions in areas previously underserved. Today, Sevier remains an influential figure in Nex-Tech’s ongoing mission to deliver robust fiber connectivity.

“I am truly honored to receive this award,” said Sevier. “When we first employed fiber, many viewed it as overly ambitious, especially in rural areas. But seeing its transformative impact on communities has been very rewarding. I am grateful to the Fiber Broadband Association for their continued work to make high-quality broadband a reality for all.”

“Larry Sevier’s vision and dedication have been instrumental in transforming rural connectivity,” said Jimmy Todd, CEO of Nex-Tech. “His pioneering efforts laid the foundation for Nex-Tech’s ongoing mission to provide high-quality broadband to rural communities. We are proud to continue his legacy and build on the strong foundation he established.”

About Nex-Tech’s Fiber Build in Northwest Kansas

Nex-Tech has a rich history of pioneering fiber broadband in Northwest Kansas. Starting in 1996, Nex-Tech became the first U.S. service provider to connect a rural community with fiber. This groundbreaking achievement set a new standard and inspired rural providers nationwide to pursue fiber connectivity. Over the years, Nex-Tech has continued to expand its fiber network, connecting homes, businesses, and institutions in previously underserved areas. Today, Nex-Tech remains committed to delivering robust fiber connectivity and advancing digital equity in rural communities.