Most attendees at NATE UNITE 2026 this week will see the education sessions, the packed exhibit hall, and the high-profile speakers. What many don’t see are the men and women working quietly behind the scenes all year long. They are typically humble about their contributions — and that’s part of their culture — but their impact on the telecommunications infrastructure industry is significant. If you run into one of them during the conference this week, take a moment to thank them for their service.
On Sunday, February 22, that behind-the-scenes engine was fully on display as NATE volunteer committees and working groups convened ahead of the main conference activities.
Composed of many of the industry’s most experienced leaders, these committees collaborate throughout the year to advance safety initiatives, strengthen member services, and ensure the contractor voice is heard across the regulatory and operational landscape.
From toolbox meetings to Senate hearing preparation, the work originating in these committee rooms continues to influence day-to-day outcomes across the tower construction, service, and maintenance sectors.
THE TRADE SHOW COMMITTEE, under the leadership of Chairwoman Amanda Stegall of MILLERCO, met to finalize key elements of NATE UNITE 2026 while already mapping the path forward for the association’s 2027 and 2028 events. The group’s year-round efforts focus on keeping the UNITE experience aligned with rapidly evolving technology, safety expectations, and field realities.
At the same time, the MEMBER SERVICES COMMITTEE, chaired by Sarah King of JAG Resources, Inc., held detailed discussions on current projects and upcoming initiatives designed to enhance the value NATE delivers to its membership. Their work directly shapes many of the benefits, communications, and support resources members rely on throughout the year.
Regulatory vigilance remained front and center during the STANDARDS & REGULATIONS COMMITTEE meeting, led by Chairman David Payton of TSC Construction, LLC. The committee continues to provide members with critical updates on OSHA developments, emerging industry standards, and best practices aimed at reducing incidents and improving workforce efficiency — areas that remain under increasing scrutiny across the sector.
Meanwhile, the SAFETY & EDUCATION COMMITTEE, chaired by Ethan Olson of Kilowatt, Inc., focused on advancing high-priority training materials and safety resources. The committee plays a pivotal role in developing the educational content and guidance that contractors use in the field, reinforcing NATE’s longstanding commitment to elevating safety performance across the industry.
Taken together, Sunday’s meetings served as a reminder that much of NATE’s influence is built through steady, often unseen volunteer leadership. As UNITE 2026 unfolds in Las Vegas, many of the initiatives highlighted throughout the week — from workforce development to safety innovation — can trace their origins back to the committee rooms where dedicated volunteers continue to put in the work.
It is important to note that the volunteers pictured above represent only a portion of NATE’s extensive leadership network. Across the association, more than 15 NATE volunteer committees and working groups meet regularly throughout the year.
Their approach may be quiet, but their impact is anything but.
