2025 Annual Report
In good hands.
Built for what's next.
MTA's future is in good hands — built through the skill, dedication, and purpose of the people who keep Alaska connected.
The Future is in Good Hands
2025 marked a pivotal year for MTA as we strengthened our fiber network, reinforced system reliability, and prepared for the next chapter of connectivity in Alaska. Guided by experienced leadership and a growing generation of skilled employees, we made deliberate investments that ensure our members can count on us—not just today, but for years to come.
CEO
Messsage
Our efforts are about more than infrastructure – they’re about opportunity. Looking ahead, 2026 will be a year of acceleration.
When I stepped into the CEO role last fall, I spent my first months doing a lot of listening—talking with employees, meeting members, and getting a feel for what MTA really stands for. What stood out right away wasn’t just the scale of our network or the projects underway, but the pride people take in doing this work well and doing it for the right reasons.
2025 was a strong year for MTA. We secured a $108 million BEAD award to bring fiber broadband to more than 10,000 homes and businesses across our service area. We continued building and upgrading our network, brought on new team members and apprentices, and strengthened relationships with schools, tribes, and local communities. These aren’t isolated accomplishments—they’re part of a longer story about preparing Alaska for what comes next.
There’s no question, this is an important moment for the state. Alaska is getting increased attention and investment tied to national defense, Arctic strategy, energy, and natural resources. Those opportunities don’t happen in a vacuum. They require infrastructure that can support growth, industry, and innovation over the long term. Reliable, scalable connectivity is a big part of that foundation.
That’s why our focus on fiber matters. Fiber to the home improves everyday life for our members, but fiber also serves a broader purpose. It supports healthcare, education, business development, and the kinds of projects that count on dependable, high-capacity networks. It’s the right technology for where Alaska is headed, and it’s why we’re investing now—carefully and with a long view.
Everything we do comes back to our members. The investments we’re making today are intended to serve them tomorrow, whether that means better service at home or a stronger, more connected region overall. Our mission hasn’t changed: to keep Alaska connected in ways that are practical, reliable, and built to last.
I also want to acknowledge Michael Burke, who retired late last year after a decade of leadership. The cooperative is strong because of the work he and many others put in over the years, and I’m grateful for the foundation they built.
I’m confident in where MTA is headed. The work ahead is significant, but so is the opportunity. Thank you for trusting us with what comes next.
Chief Executive Officer
Messsage From The Board
Stewardship for the Long Run
One of the roles of the MTA Board is to think long-term—about the health of the cooperative, the value delivered to members, and the decisions needed to keep MTA strong over time. In 2025, that responsibility guided some of the most important work the Board has done in years.
One of those decisions was selecting a new Chief Executive Officer. After a national search, we were pleased to appoint Demian Voiles. From the beginning, it was clear that Demian understands the cooperative model, Alaska’s unique challenges, and the importance of making thoughtful, disciplined investments. His leadership in the months since has reinforced the Board’s confidence in that decision.
We also want to recognize Michael Burke for his ten years of service as CEO. Under his leadership, MTA strengthened its financial footing, expanded its network, and earned the trust of the communities it serves. The cooperative’s current position reflects that steady leadership.
This year also marked a period of unprecedented investment in broadband infrastructure across Alaska. Programs like BEAD and ReConnect bring opportunity, but they also require careful oversight. The Board’s responsibility is to ensure these funds are used in ways that make sense not just today, but years from now.
MTA’s continued investment in fiber reflects that mindset. Fiber is a durable, future-ready technology that supports growth without creating unnecessary risk or repeated rebuilds. It’s a sound investment for members and one that aligns with the cooperative’s obligation to plan beyond the next budget cycle.
As Alaska grows and changes, the Board remains focused on stability, accountability, and making decisions that serve members over the long term. With strong leadership and a clear strategy in place, we believe MTA is well positioned for the years ahead.
Chief Governance Officer
On Behalf of the MTA Board of Directors
People + Purpose
The People Behind The Progress
This year, we didn’t just expand our network. We moved forward in ways that reflect the strength of the people behind it.
In 2025, we brought on new apprentices, celebrated retirements, and saw employees step into new roles. Across departments, teams showed up with focus and pride. Whether it was a technician restoring service after a storm or a support rep helping a member get connected, the work was steady and personal.
We also continued to invest in our workforce. Employees advanced their skills, took on new challenges, and helped mentor the next generation. Workforce development at MTA is not a one-time initiative. It is part of how we operate and how we grow.
At the heart of it all is a shared sense of purpose. Our people care about their work, their teammates, and the communities we serve. That is what makes the difference.
55
New Hires
12
Apprentices on Staff
1,200
Hours of Training
& Development
17
EMployees received
Education Benefits
19
Promotions
2025 Recognition Highlights
MTA is proud to be recognized by leading industry and Alaskan organizations for excellence across key categories.
Best Telecommunciations Provider (Foraker Award)
Organization
Alaska Business Magazine
Category
Telecommunications Provider
Status
Winner
Recognized as part of the 2025 Best of Alaska Business awards.
2025 Merit Award
Organization
Merit Awards
Category
Health & Safety
Status
Winner
Recognized for MTA's 360° Safety Awareness Campaign. This campaign was just one of many ways MTA progressed its culture of safety through 2025.
ESGR Honors (Patriot & Above and Beyond Awards)
Organization
ESGR
Category
Guard & Reserve Support
Status
Winner
Reflects sustained, documented support of Guard and Reserve members. Included an individual Patriot Award recognition for Jessica Gilbert's leadership support.
Cyber Champion Award
Organization
NTCA (Rural Broadband Association)
Category
Cybersecurity
Status
Winner
Cybersecurity remains a strong focus of MTA. This award recognized MTA's efforts to keep its employees, members, and communities protected. MTA was recognized during the NTCA Fall Conference.
Community Outreach Excellence Award
Jackie Kenshalo
Organization
NTCA (Rural Broadband Association)
Category
Community Outreach
Status
Winner
Jackie Kenshalo was recognized at the NTCA RTIME Conference among industry leaders across the United States. Jackie's leadership in the creation and execution of the Youth Technology Tours is a strong example of our people going above and beyond for our community.
HDI Global Service & Support Award
Organization
HDI
Category
Best Customer Experience
Status
Finalist
Notable industry distinction highlighting MTA's customer service, listed alongside major national organizations.
2025 Employee Giving Campaign
MTA employees are rooted in the community. Each year, their generosity helps propel local organizations forward. In 2025, the MTA Employee Giving Campaign raised $23,206 for two worthy organizations: Alaska Behavioral Health and United Way of Mat-Su.
$10,464
🡇
$12,742
🡇
Where Curiosity Meets Opportunity
Youth Technology Tour
Since 2021, MTA’s Youth Technology Tour has introduced local students to the real-world careers behind Alaska’s communications network. What began as a small program has grown into an award‑winning experience grounded in hands-on learning and employee mentorship.
In 2025, MTA hosted its largest tour yet, welcoming more than 120 students over two days for behind-the-scenes exposure to engineering, construction, IT, marketing, finance, and more. Led by Jackie Kenshalo and supported by employees across the organization, the program continues to spark curiosity, build confidence, and show students that meaningful technology careers are possible right here at home.
Performance + Progress
What We Achieved Together
31k+
Connections with
Improved Capacity
4,000
Locations Upgraded
153
Miles of Fiber Deployed
$108m
BEAD Provisional Award
(10,000+ Locations)
Windstorm Recovery Efforts
In 2025, we experienced a series of severe windstorms. Field crews made repairs in challenging conditions, generators were delivered and refueled around the clock, and facilities staff worked to keep critical buildings operational. At the same time, support teams managed a spike in member calls as restoration efforts were underway.
While much of this happened behind the scenes, its impact was felt directly by members. We saw a significant increase in membership following the windstorms as a direct result of our resiliency and urgency in getting people online. MTA’s philosophy around handling outages, supporting our members, and staying nimble for our community has been a key indicator for members switching. Moments like these reinforce why dependable infrastructure – and the people that maintain it – matter.
Construction Transparency
In 2025, construction activity increased across our service area as we expanded and upgraded our network. We know that growth can also bring disruption, which is why clear, timely communication has become just as important as the work itself.
To improve transparency for members, MTA expanded the construction resources available on our website, providing real-time updates, maps, and what-to-expect guidance for areas impacted by active projects. These tools helped members understand where work was happening, how long it might last, and a clear place to submit your questions.
This approach reflects a simple commitment: investing in better infrastructure should also mean investing in better communication. As we continue building, we’ll keep refining how we share information so members feel informed, respected, and supported throughout the process.
Member Support Snapshot
Fiber: The Foundation for What’s Next
Built for Growth
Supports economic development, industry, and population growth
Future-Proof
Scales with demand; avoids repeated rebuilds
Reliable & Resilient
Weather resistance, longevity, lower maintenance
Enables Opportunity
Healthcare, education, defense, energy, innovation
Good for Members
Faster, more reliable service and long-term value
Member Impact
What It Means For Members
For our members, our work isn’t measured in miles of fiber, it’s measured in everyday reliability and opportunity. Our members can live and work on a network that's built to grow with them.
Across our service area, ongoing investment in the network means more dependable service during Alaska’s unpredictable conditions, better performance as households continue to add more connected devices, and the unwavering confidence that today’s internet needs won’t outgrow tomorrow’s infrastructure. Whether it’s remote work, school assignments, telehealth appointments, or staying connected to family, our focus remains the same: keeping members connected to what matters most.
Where We’re Building: Impact Across Our Land
From established neighborhoods to rapidly developing areas, major infrastructure projects are reshaping how communities across our service area connect.
These investments bring high-capacity fiber closer to homes and businesses. Resiliency continues to be improved. Long-standing connectivity gaps are closing. Each project represents greater stability, faster speeds, and long-term value for the members who rely on us everyday.
Meeting Growing Demand
Connected life today looks very different than it did yesterday.
Homes must now simultaneously support remote workers, students, smart devices, streaming, and cloud-based tools simultaneously. Demand is growing not just because our communities are expanding, but because technology itself continues to ask more from our networks.
That’s why we’re building with capacity in mind.
Member Voices
MTA in the Community
Connected to our Communities
Being locally owned means investing locally. In 2025, MTA directed more than $300,000 in community giving and sponsorship support toward organizations, schools, and events that strengthen the places we serve, both today and for the future. These investments focused on education, youth development, civic programs, and community well‑being across the Mat‑Su Valley, from Palmer and Wasilla to Talkeetna and beyond.
$300,000
Community giving and sponsorship support towards organizations, schools, and events.
10 Communities
We are proud to impact the communities across our serving area, from Eagle River to Talkeetna and beyond.
Major partnerships, including the Alaska State Fair, created opportunities to connect directly with members while supporting events that bring our communities together. MTA also continued to invest in local school districts and education programs, helping expand access to technology, career exploration, and hands‑on learning opportunities for students throughout our service area.
Through sustained partnerships and targeted financial support, MTA’s community investments reflect the same long‑term commitment that guides our network planning. The goal is simple: strengthen local connections, support opportunity, and help our communities thrive.
Donations by Community
Through community donations, the MTA Foundation supports local programs and organizations that improve quality of life throughout Alaska. These contributions help empower youth, support families and seniors, and provide resources for the causes that matter most to our communities.
Grants
MTA Foundation grants support nonprofit organizations, schools, and community initiatives that create lasting impact across the region. From technology access and education to workforce development and community enrichment, these investments help strengthen and connect the communities we serve.
$100k+
Awarded in Grants
10
Organizations
Supported
6
Major Impact Areas
45%
Invested In Education
Scholarships
MTA Foundation scholarships help local students pursue higher education, career training, and new opportunities for the future. In 2025, the MTA Foundation was proud to offer two STEM-specific scholarships, further supporting students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. By investing in students today, we are helping build the next generation of leaders, innovators, and skilled professionals for Alaska’s communities.
Awarded Scholarships
Graduating
Seniors
Continuing
Education
STEM
Trade & Technical
Looking Ahead
Next, Together
2026 Strategic Priorities
Invest
Invest in our network to keep up with demand.
Grow
Deepen our strategic partnerships to continue to grow our communities.
Readiness
Shaping a workforce prepared to lead what comes next.
Every investment we make today prepares our network, our workforce, and our communities for what comes next. Grounded in local ownership. Focused on long‑term reliability and readiness.
MTA remains focused on investing in our network. Learn more about our upcoming projects here.
CEO Remuneration + Financial Information
Pursuant to MTA Bylaws, Article VI, Section 5(g), CEO remuneration including the value of benefits for the year ending December 31, 2025 has been certified by the Secretary of the MTA Board of Directors in the amount of $741,148. The total includes all wages and benefits paid for both CEOs employed in 2025.
Closing
Thank You for Trusting Us with What's Next
As we look back on 2025, one thing is clear: MTA is moving forward with purpose, care, and confidence. Throughout the year, we focused on strengthening our network, investing in our people, and staying closely connected to the communities we serve. Each decision reflected our responsibility as a locally owned cooperative and our commitment to long‑term reliability.
From continued fiber expansion and system upgrades, to meaningful investments in workforce development and readiness, to more than $300,000 invested back into our communities, our work remained guided by one principle: serve today while preparing for what comes next. The dedication and expertise of our employees continue to be the foundation of that work, ensuring our members can rely on a network built with care and intention.
As we move into 2026, MTA remains focused on thoughtful investment, strong partnerships, and practical innovation that supports our members and strengthens the region we call home. The challenges ahead are real, but so is the opportunity.
The future is in good hands because it is built by people who know this place, believe in it, and are committed to doing the work the right way.