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Active News Releases

Nex-Tech Encourages Students to Apply for James L. Bass Legal Scholarship

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LENORA, Kan., Feb 16, 2021—The Foundation for Rural Service (FRS) today announced the James L. Bass Legal Scholarship, a new scholarship for students with an interest in rural communities entering their first year of law school. FRS is the philanthropic arm of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, of which Nex-Tech is a member.
 
With an active law career that spanned more than 70 years, James Bass helped secure funds for rural telephone systems to bring modern telephone service to rural areas. He was pivotal in the creation of NTCA, where he served as one of the organization’s earliest presidents. Bass continued his leadership with service for more than 50 years as legal counsel.
 
Recognizing Bass’s impact to the industry and his passion for the legal profession, the NTCA Board of Directors established a scholarship for students with an interest in rural communities to attend law school. The first James L. Bass Legal Scholarship will be awarded in spring 2021 and will be at least $5,000.
 
“Jim was not only a founding member of NTCA, he was a guiding light for our association through much of his lifetime,” said Shirley Bloomfield, chief executive officer of NTCA. “He spent his last years in service to the association as our general counsel where he helped guide our national board through growth and transformation. How fitting it is to honor him with a law school scholarship recognizing not only his passion for rural America but for the legal profession as well. My sincere thanks to all the NTCA members who so generously donated in Jim’s memory.”
 
Jacque Beckman, Nex-Tech Youth Services/Training Specialist said, “What an amazing opportunity for those entering as first-year law students this fall. It is our privilege to help share this opportunity with students in the rural communities we serve.”
 
The deadline to be considered for the spring 2021 James L. Bass Scholarship is April 16, 2021. Application materials and more information about the scholarship can be found here.
 

Nex-Tech Announces Cloud-based Network Monitoring Platform

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LENORA, Kan., Jan 12, 2021—Nex-Tech, a leader in business technology solutions and connectivity, announced today the launch of Nex-Tech NOC Cloud, an easy-to-access and cost-effective network monitoring system that virtually eliminates the high cost of maintaining a network control center. Additionally, the utilization of a centralized maintenance system reduces personnel requirements by combining or eliminating multiple systems or terminals and placing all under a single control center with individual access.
 
TWO LEVELS OF NOC CLOUD
Nex-Tech NOC Cloud is a cloud-based automated alarm aggregation system with reporting and notification tools. Customer personnel logs in and monitors the system without incurring hundreds of thousands of dollars in upfront equipment costs.
 
Nex-Tech NOC Cloud Pro is full-service, incorporating all the above with 24x7x365 staffing, data analytics and network intelligence.
 
FEATURES AT A GLANCE
 
“Nex-Tech NOC Cloud is a great opportunity for companies researching network monitoring products to gain access to a low-cost, yet highly effective entry-level system.” says Bill Mathews, Managing Director, Nex-Tech, Cordell Division. “Having utilized the system for several years, we know it is accurate, an easy install, and allows users the ability to reallocate personnel for better use of resources.”
 

Nex-Tech 2020 Football Donation Campaign Supports Area High Schools

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HAYS, Kan, Dec 30, 2020 —Nex-Tech, a leader in technology and connectivity, and an avid supporter of community, education, and athletics, is giving back to service-area schools through a cumulative donation of over $10,000 amongst 26 area high schools. For the 2020 season, schools that signed up received $20 for each home game touchdown.
 
The Football Donation Campaign, instituted in 2005, expands Nex-Tech’s dedication to community involvement by championing athletic programs located in the communities in which we live. It also supports another of our core beliefs—having fun—because high school football is just plain fun for us!
 
Director of Customer Engagement Dustin Schlaefli says, “Here at Nex-Tech, our passion is to make life better for our friends, neighbors and our customers. Getting more involved in the communities we serve while being able to provide some booster support at the same time means a lot to us as a company.”
 
To area high school coaches, teachers, and students, thank you for letting us be a part of your 2020 football season. It matters when a coach says to us, “Awesome program! Thanks for including us. The money really does help little schools.”
 

Nex-Tech Awarded SPARK Grant Funding

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LENORA, Kan, Oct 8, 2020 —Nex-Tech received notification that it was awarded SPARK relief funding from the Kansas Department of Commerce. Earlier this year the state of Kansas realized that every corner of the state had been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The state of Kansas made emergency financial relief available from federal CARES Act funding. The Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Task Force approved more than $130 million in relief funding for economic development and connectivity in the state. These dollars are being awarded in the form of grants to eligible businesses through the Kansas Department of Commerce.
 
The Lenora-based technology company will receive grant funding of almost $800,000 that will enable the development of broadband services in unserved and underserved areas of central and western Kansas. These projects will impact almost 450 business and residential customers in eight counties, including Barton, Decatur, Norton, Phillips, Republic, Rooks, Sheridan, and Smith. The SPARK committee created ten grant opportunities and Nex-Tech applied for funding in two of these categories: Broadband Partnership Adoption Grant and Connectivity Emergency Response Grant.
 
Broadband Partnership Adoption Grant
The Broadband Partnership Adoption Grant provides support for low-income households by partnering with providers and school districts to ensure connectivity to as many Kansans as possible. Expanded connectivity should result in improved opportunities for remote learning, remote working and accessing telehealth/telemedicine services. Nex-Tech was awarded funding of $33,936 to supplement its Continuous Learning Initiative. With the Continuous Learning Initiative program Nex‐Tech can provide free Internet access to eligible students for remote learning from home.
 
Connectivity Emergency Response Grant (CERG)
The Connectivity Emergency Response Grant (CERG) was created to address the increased need for Internet connectivity in Kansas in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Proposed projects should improve connectivity to unserved and underserved areas of Kansas to address the needs of telework, telehealth, distance learning and other remote business services. Nex-Tech was awarded $761,111 for five projects.
 
  • Fixed Wireless Upgrades—This project focuses on six rural areas located in Decatur, Norton, Phillips, Rooks, Sheridan, and Smith Counties. This grant will allow Nex-Tech to upgrade equipment, and approximately 250 customers in these areas can be upgraded to a 25/3 Mbps Internet connection.
  • Plainville Lake—This project focuses on rural Plainville located in Rooks County Kansas. Fiber to the premise infrastructure will be deployed allowing one business and three residential customers access to a fiber Internet connection of 25 Mbps up to a Gig connection. This will also provide Wi-Fi connectivity at the recreational area and shelter house at Plainville Lake.
  • Rural Republic County—This project will serve six underserved large farms and rural businesses in the Republic County area. These customers will have access to a fiber Internet connection of 25 Mbps up to a Gig connection.
  • Prairie Dog State Park—The community of Norton recognized the lack of broadband access at Prairie Dog State Park, but the onslaught of Covid-19 made it much more apparent. Several organizations, including The Norton County Community Foundation, and Norton City/County Economic Development shared the need to add Internet connectivity at the state office and campgrounds. These entities worked with Nex-Tech to submit this grant application, which will result in bringing high-speed Internet to the State Park office and Wi-Fi connectivity to the campground areas. The Norton community and the Kansas State Director of Parks each pledged to support 5% of the cost for the project. 
  • Rural Great Bend—This project will serve several underserved farms and rural businesses south of Great Bend, including the Barton County Historical Society. These customers will have access to a fiber Internet connection of 25 Mbps up to a Gig connection.
 
“We are extremely pleased to have received this grant funding to expand and improve Internet connectivity to customers in Central and Western Kansas,” stated Jimmy Todd, CEO and General Manager of Nex-Tech. “We want to thank the many individuals, businesses and community leaders who wrote letters of support for these projects.”
 
Since receiving word about the grant funding Nex-Tech has already started working on the Courtland and Scandia fiber project, and they are putting plans in place to begin work on other projects in order to meet the project deadline of December 30, 2020.
 

Nex-Tech Acquires Inland Computer Systems

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LENORA Kan, Oct 1, 2020 —Nex-Tech is pleased to announce it has reached an agreement today to acquire Inland Computer Systems of Topeka. Inland provides computer repair, network installation, hardware, and managed services. Inland opened in Topeka in 1983 and has been co-owned by Bob Raymer and Pam Gies. Inland is located at 17th and Fairlawn and Nex-Tech will have an office in this same location. Inland also provides printer and typewriter maintenance, but that portion of the business is not being acquired. Nex-Tech will have four local staff in the Topeka location.
 
Steve Riat, Director of Sales at Nex-Tech, explains Nex-Tech’s history in the Topeka market. “In 2019 Nex-Tech started offering business technology services in the Topeka market and had two local team members.” Riat continued, “We are excited to have worked with Bob and Pam on this acquisition, and we will continue with the same services in Topeka, plus expand the offerings with Nex-Tech’s complete line of technology applications, including cloud services, secure networking, security and surveillance, mobile devices, hardware and software, to custom applications and desktops.”
 
“We know Nex-Tech is great company with a core foundation built on a standard of providing high-level customer service, quality installation and superior support,” stated Bob Raymer. “Our customers will be in great hands with Nex-Tech.”
 

Nex-Tech Announces Continuous Learning Initiative for Fall 2020 School Year

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Hays, Kan, 8-18-2020 —In response to the impact the COVID-19 pandemic is having on area schools and understanding that Internet connectivity is critically important to the success of students, Nex-Tech is announcing its plan to extend the Continuous Learning Initiative. Schools have been planning all summer and many have implemented at-home learning or hybrid options. Schools will be asked to confirm the impact of student households that don’t currently have Internet service and have opted in to at-home learning or a hybrid option. Schools will then share these addresses with Nex-Tech for verification of eligibility. Nex-Tech will begin providing service to eligible locations effective August 17, 2020.
 
Area schools have been sent additional information from Nex-Tech and will distribute to eligible families regarding the steps to sign-up for service.
 
Nex-Tech would also like to assure its customers that its network is strong and ready for increased usage. Said Dustin Schlaefli, Director of Customer Engagement, “Our network was built to scale. We are pleased to be able to provide a program to help families in need. Nex-Tech has a great relationship with the schools in our area, and this is just another way we get involved and give back to the communities we serve.”
 
To learn more about Nex-Tech services and its additional measures regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, you may go online to www.nex-tech.com. For families with students that have chosen at-home learning or a hybrid option, and that do not have Internet service, please contact your local school for more information.
 

Nex-Tech Director of Operations Ron Ellis Retires July 31, 2020

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HAYS, Kan, July 7, 2020 —Nex-Tech today announced that Director of Operations Ron Ellis is retiring July 31, 2020. Ron’s contributions will last long into the future, including his work toward making Nex-Tech one of the first companies in the world to take fiber-to-the-home.
Ron started out as an engineering technician, and over the years, grew with the company. Always a leader in character, he became a director focused on building strong teams dedicated to delivering progressive technological products with a customer-first attitude.
 
Chief Operating Officer Mike Pollock says, “Ron has been a key member of the management team during a time of extraordinary growth at Nex-Tech. His immense knowledge, vast experience, strong work ethic and positive can-do attitude have been instrumental to the success and growth of Nex-Tech during the past 30 years. I wish him the best in his retirement.”
 
Moving forward, the department is expanding, resulting in a split of duties between two directors. Allan Reiter now serves as Director of Technology overseeing network operations, technology services, and operational support for the Cordell Division. Terry Peterson is the new Director of Field Services managing field operations, engineering, construction, and fiber and fixed wireless infrastructure.
 
Of the changes, Ron says, “I’ve had the honor of working with Allan and Terry over the years, and know they are sharp intelligent individuals who understand the technologies and the people they direct. That’s a huge thing, getting the people side as much as the technology side, and they do it with style.” On a personal note, he continues, “For me, I’ve had the best of times working here. I’m honored to be part of a progressive company, and I know that doesn’t happen without the support of a progressive board and executive management team leading the way. Thank you!”
 
Join us for an open house celebrating his service to the company, Friday, July 17th from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the Lenora Community Building, Lenora, KS. Refreshments will be served.
 

Nex-Tech Wins NTCA 2019 Best Marketing Campaign Award

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HAYS, Kan, June 23, 2020 —Nex-Tech announced today that it won the Marketing Campaign category in the 2019 NTCA—The Rural Broadband Association Marketing eXcellence awards program for the cloud phone campaign titled Get in the Cloud. Love the View.
Recognized in telecommunications as the leading organization promoting the welfare and strength of rural providers, NTCA advocates at the national level for ongoing technological development and the continuation of programs rural providers require in order to deliver robust connectivity and solutions to areas who otherwise would not have access to services found in major U.S. metropolitan areas.
 
“I would like to congratulate all of the 2019 Marketing eXcellence Award winners for their incredible work,” said NTCA Chief Executive Officer Shirley Bloomfield. “The marketing efforts of NTCA member companies play a critical role in educating consumers and raising awareness of communications technologies, services, initiatives and issues that impact the vitality of rural communities—all of which are extraordinarily important right now. Their work is truly impressive.”
 
Dustin Schlaefli, Nex-Tech Director of Customer Engagement says, “NTCA is an important organization to us here at Nex-Tech for the work they do on behalf of rural providers everywhere. It is an honor to receive the 2019 Marketing eXcellence Marketing Campaign award. For us, developing products and services that help community businesses succeed is what we’re all about and recognition for doing an excellent job is both inspirational and meaningful.”
 
An overview video produced by NTCA of the Nex-Tech marketing campaign is here: https://youtu.be/ej69fBscuBw
 
The complete list of 2019 Marketing eXcellence winners is available here: https://www.ntca.org/member-services/awards-recognition/marketing-excellence-awards#winner
 
Background
NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association is the premier association representing nearly 850 independent, community-based telecommunications companies that are leading innovation in rural and small-town America. In an era of transformative technological advancements, regulatory challenges and marketplace competition, NTCA members are leading the technological evolution for rural consumers, delivering robust and high-quality services over future-proof networks that make rural communities vibrant places in which to live and do business. Because of their efforts, rural America is fertile ground for innovation in economic development, e-commerce, health care, agriculture and education, and it contributes billions of dollars to the U.S. economy each year. Visit us at www.ntca.org.
 

Foundation for Rural Service Announces 2020 Scholarship Recipients

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Lenora, Kan, 06-17-20 —Nex-Tech is pleased to announce Maggie Speno, Taylor Weidenhaft, and Patrick Heath as national award recipients of the Foundation for Rural Service (FRS) scholarship program.
The FRS awarded $87,000 to 34 students from rural communities served by members of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, including Nex-Tech. In its announcement, the FRS noted that the awardee’s applications were stellar and showcased not only their academic dedication, but an incredible amount of pride in their rural communities.
 
Maggie Speno received the $7,000 Everett Kneece scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to one student who demonstrates strong interest in returning to a rural community. Maggie is the daughter of Timothy and Jessica Speno of Hays. She is a Thomas More Prep-Marian graduate and will attend Fort Hays State University majoring in Mathematics to become a high school Math teacher.
 
Taylor Weidenhaft received a $5,000 JSI Staurulakis Family scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to four students with interest in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math. Taylor is the daughter of Brandon and Julie Weidenhaft of Hays. She is a Hays High School graduate and will attend Kansas State University majoring in Human Health Microbiology with a Pre-Med focus and minor in Psychology.
 
Patrick Heath received a $2,000 FRS General scholarship with a match of $500 from Nex-Tech. A total of 19 students received this award. Patrick is the son of Dan and Kim Heath of Great Bend. He is a Great Bend High School graduate and will attend Wichita State University majoring in Graphic Design.
 
The FRS Scholarship Program awards one-time scholarships to students from across rural America for their first year of college, university or vocational-technical school. Each student is sponsored by an NTCA member company. FRS had tremendous response to their scholarship program receiving over 650 applications.
 
“Nex-Tech is pleased to be a part of national organizations like FRS that offer advancement opportunities to our youth,” said Jimmy Todd, CEO/General Manger. “We congratulate Maggie, Taylor, and Patrick on their accomplishments thus far and wish them great success in the future.”
 
“It is a privilege for FRS to have a small role in supporting the continued education of these students through our scholarship program,” said FRS Executive Director Pam Becker. “Every applicant was impressive and demonstrated a deep knowledge of and dedication to their rural communities. We thank all our donors for making this scholarship program possible year after year.”
 
A full list of scholarship awardees and the NTCA member companies who are partnering with FRS to make the funding possible is available online.
 

WTA Advocates for Rural Broadband Foundation Announces 2020 Scholarship Recipients

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Lenora, Kan, 5-12-2020 —Nex-Tech is pleased to announce Jacob Lindenman, Landon Dinkel, and Adson Day as $1,500 recipients of the national WTA Advocates for Rural Broadband Foundation scholarship program. WTA awarded 14 scholarships totaling $20,000 recognizing academic achievement, integrity and commitment to education.
Jacob is the son of Shawn and Melissa Lindenman of rural Morland. He is a Hill City High School graduate and plans to attend the University of Kansas majoring in Biology, Pre-Med.
 
Landon is the son of Curt and Donna Dinkel of Hays. He is a graduate of Hays High School and plans to attend the University of Kansas School of Architecture.
 
Adson is the son of Kelly and Andrea Day of Smith Center. He graduated from Smith Center High School and plans to attend NCK Technical School, Beloit. His field of study is undecided at this time.
 
“Nex-Tech is pleased to be a part of national organizations like WTA that offer advancement opportunities to our youth,” said Jimmy Todd, CEO/General Manger. “We congratulate Jacob, Landon, and Adson on their accomplishments thus far and wish them great success in the future.”
 
The WTA Foundation offers academic and trade school scholarships to children of parents who are employed by a WTA member company. Nex-Tech is a long-time member of WTA.
 
WTA represents more than 360 rural telecommunications carriers throughout the United States. Its mission is to strengthen the ability of its members to provide affordable, advanced broadband and communications services in rural America through advocacy and education.
 

Nex-Tech To Begin Fiber Construction in Twin Lakes

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Great Bend, Kan, 5-12-2020 —Today, Nex-Tech announced it will begin fiber construction in the Twin Lakes area, Zone A, in late summer. Initial feasibility studies indicated that Nex-Tech would need a 55% interest level to build fiber to each zone in Great Bend. The Twin Lakes zone has not yet reached that level, but based upon results from the Bissell’s Point zone, the first to meet the required interest level, Nex-Tech is confident interest will continue to grow in Twin Lakes.
Nex-Tech is preparing for the pre-construction phase for Twin Lakes. Engineers and surveyors will map the area and finalize diagrams to prepare for the construction teams to begin. The engineers will make their plans according to the addresses of residents that have already shown interest in receiving Nex-Tech fiber. Once construction begins, new addresses being added may experience a delay in getting services, due to them not being included on the initial plan. Nex-Tech encourages residents to register for fiber service now, so they will be included in the plan.
 
Jimmy Todd, Chief Executive Officer at Nex-Tech, shared his thoughts about delivering fiber Internet, TV and phone services to the Twin Lakes area. “During this challenging time, it has become increasingly clear how important reliable Internet service is. Whether it’s connecting for remote working or learning, video chatting with loved ones, streaming entertainment, or getting your local business online, fiber is the only technology that is guaranteed to meet the needs of today and those to come.”
 
Rick Taylor, Nex-Tech Business Sales Associate, shared his thoughts. “As a long time resident of Great Bend, I couldn’t be more excited about this project. With a 200 Mbps connection, multiple people can work and learn at home simultaneously, telemedicine can be conducted from the living room and the entertainment options are endless. With the new challenges we are all facing, reliable Internet is also critically important for local businesses as they adapt to the new normal. Great Bend deserves the same advanced technology that many other areas in central and western Kansas already enjoy.”
 
Nex-Tech urges residents that haven’t registered for fiber to do so now. They have temporarily waved the sign-up fee and are still offering their pre-construction special of 200 Mbps symmetrical Internet starting at $59.99 per month. Nex-Tech’s popular streaming TV service can be added for $76 per month. Registration should be made at www.fiber.nex-tech.com or by calling the local store at 620-792-3908.
 

Nex-Tech Provides Essential Internet Access During Pandemic

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Hays, Kan, 5-5-2020 —In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the March 17, 2020, announcement by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly to close schools through the remainder of the 2020 school year, Nex-Tech initiated a continuous learning initiative and announced its program March 26, 2020. To successfully implement the program and ensure students had access to Internet for remote education, Nex-Tech worked with dozens of schools in its service area to identify households without Internet and provide free service. Nex-Tech has connected more than 120 households.
“We understood the extreme importance of ensuring learning was not interrupted for students in our area and our team came together quickly to make that happen.” said Dustin Schlaefli, Director of Customer Engagement at Nex-Tech. “Since launching the program, we have received numerous positive comments and thank you notes from our customers and the schools. That’s a good feeling and makes us proud that we are able to help.”
 
In addition to the state-wide shift to online learning, an increase in the number of people working from home has also added to higher demand for reliable Internet service. Since March, Nex-Tech has experienced a significant spike of Internet usage during the day. Between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., bandwidth usage has increased between 30% to 45% as compared to pre-pandemic. Despite the increased network usage, Nex-Tech has met the demand. Said Schlaefli, “Our network was built to scale and was designed with the future in mind. We were ready and have successfully absorbed increased usage without affecting user experience.”
 
In addition to the continuous learning initiative, Nex-Tech has provided free public Wi-Fi hotspots for more than 10 years and offers over 200 locations throughout the Nex-Tech footprint where customers could get access to the Internet.
 
 

Nex-Tech Releases Updated Covid-19 Service Plan

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Hays, Kan, 5-1-2020 —Nex-Tech continues to monitor the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic and its impact on employees and customers. Based on the expiration of the Kansas Stay-at-Home order and Governor Kelly’s plan to reopen the state in phases, Nex-Tech has implemented its Phase 1 plan, and will open 12 of its 15 stores with restricted access, on Monday, May 4, 2020. Nex-Tech is an essential business and has instituted measures to help mitigate the spread of the virus. In addition, Nex-Tech will follow any local city or county guidance which may be more restrictive than the state guidance.
 
The summary of the steps Nex-Tech is enacting as it continues to focus on the safety of customers and employees, navigate this situation and ultimately return to normal operations are as follows:
  • Store hours for the 12 open locations, including Lenora, Great Bend, Hays, WaKeeney, Russell, Hill City, Norton, Plainville, Phillipsburg, Smith Center, Osborne and Hoxie, will be 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Stores will be closed from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. to allow for additional sanitizing efforts.
  • The Courtland, Quinter and Stockton Nex-Tech stores will remain closed during Phase 1.
  • There will be one Nex-Tech team member working in the open stores and the door will remain locked.
    • Nex-Tech will limit entrance to one customer in the store at a time. When a team member is available, they will come to the door and welcome the next customer.
  • Stores are stocked with hand sanitizer and disinfectant. Employees will increase handwashing throughout that day as well as store cleaning and surface disinfecting.
  • Employees have been provided masks and will wear masks when interacting with customers.
  • Employees will ask screening questions to each customer that enters a Nex-Tech store.
  • Customers will be asked to wear a mask. They may wear their own or Nex-Tech will provide one.
  • Customers will be asked to utilize hand sanitizer upon entry.
  • If a customer needs assistance with a device or phone, Nex-Tech will ask the customer to first wipe down the device with a disinfectant wipe before handing it to the team member.
  • Nex-Tech Customer Sales team members will continue to be available via telephone from 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and can be contacted by dialing 877 625 7872. Nex-Tech may also be contacted via email which allows more time to efficiently distribute work to Nex-Tech team members. Customers should include a short description of their request and include a callback number.
  • The Nex-Tech Help Desk will continue providing support during normal business hours and can be reached at 888-565-3200.
  • Nex-Tech technicians will continue to perform installations and on-site repairs. They are increasing handwashing and will be equipped with disinfectant wipes and personal protective equipment.
    • Technicians will ask customers if there are individuals at the location who have been exposed to the virus, are experiencing flu-like symptoms, or have traveled from high risk areas. If this is the case, Nex-Tech will work with these customers on a case-by-case basis.
    • Nex-Tech has coached employees to be aware of the Covid-19 symptoms. If they are uncomfortable entering a home or business location, they may determine whether or not to proceed.
  • To submit a payment, Nex-Tech asks that you do not make a special trip to the store. It is preferred that customers pay by phone by calling 877-625-7872, mailing their payment or by paying online:
 
Nex-Tech would like to extend its appreciation to their customers and employees and thanks them for their patience and cooperation as they adjust to the new Phase 1 guidelines. When the state progresses to Phase 2, Nex-Tech will provide its updated procedures to the public.
 
 

Nex-Tech Breaks Ground for Fiber Project in Great Bend

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Hays, Kan, 4-23-2020 —Nex-Tech announced it has begun construction in the Bissell's Point neighborhood in Great Bend. Nex-Tech conducted a small groundbreaking ceremony, in alignment with the statewide stay-at-home-order, and gathered Great Bend Nex-Tech employees to celebrate the occasion. Bissell’s Point was the first to register the necessary interest level for the project and will be the first zone to receive Nex-Tech fiber-to-the-home services in Great Bend.
Dustin Schlaefli, Director of Customer Engagement said, “The reliability of fiber Internet is more important now than ever. Fiber delivers a much faster and stable connection than any other technology. This allows Great Bend residents to reliably work and learn from home, conduct medical appointments via telecommuting and helps small businesses compete.”
 
Nex-Tech is an essential business and continues to provide telephone, Internet, TV Now and business services during the statewide stay-at-home order. Nex-Tech is still gathering interest in fiber services for the other zones in Great Bend. In January, Nex-Tech announced two new Internet packages for those that pre-register– a 200 Mbps Internet package for $59.95 and a 1 Gig package for $99.95. Great Bend residents should show their interest online at https://fiber.nex-tech.com or by calling 620-792-3908.
 
Great Bend Nex-Tech employees Justin Brown, Denise Long, Eric Pfannenstiel, Lindsey Krom-Craven and Gary Flax participate in a ground breaking ceremony at Bissell’s Point.
Great Bend Nex-Tech employees Justin Brown, Denise Long, Eric Pfannenstiel, Lindsey Krom-Craven and Gary Flax participate in a ground breaking ceremony at Bissell’s Point.
A Nex-Tech fiber contractor installs the fiber Network Interface Device (NID) on a customer’s home.
A Nex-Tech fiber contractor installs the fiber Network Interface Device (NID) on a customer’s home.
 

Nex-Tech Announces Continuous Learning Initiative

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Hays, Kan, 3-26-2020 —In response to the impact the COVID-19 pandemic is having on area schools and understanding that Internet connectivity is critically important to the success of students, Nex-Tech is announcing its Continuous Learning Initiative. Schools districts have been gathering data to confirm the impact of student households that don’t currently have Internet service and have shared these addresses with Nex-Tech for verification of eligibility. Nex-Tech will begin providing service to eligible locations effective March 30, 2020.
Area schools will distribute additional information from Nex-Tech to eligible families regarding the steps to sign-up for service.
 
Nex-Tech would also like to assure its customers that its network is strong and ready for increased usage. Said Dustin Schlaefli, Director of Customer Engagement, “Our network was built to scale. While we have observed increased usage during the day, we can easily absorb significantly more. Our network was designed with the future in mind - telemedicine, telecommuting, remote education, 4K streaming and beyond. While we never imagined things would change so quickly, we are encouraged that our network was ready and will continue to be.”
 
To learn more about Nex-Tech services and its additional measures regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, you may go online to www.nex-tech.com. For families with students at home that do not have Internet service, please contact your local school for more information.
 
 
 
Some locations may currently have limited hours due to stay at home guidlines. Please individual websites or Facebook pages for details.
 

Bissell’s Point Neighborhood Advances First in Nex-Tech Fiber Project in Great Bend

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Hays, Kan, 1-10-2020 —Nex-Tech is pleased to announce the Bissell's Point neighborhood is one step closer to receiving fiber-to-the-home. Bissell’s Point surpassed the required threshold of homes showing interest in receiving Nex-Tech Fiber and will advance to the sign-up phase. Residents of Bissell’s Point will now be asked to commit to services and select the Nex-Tech services they would like to receive, including Internet, local phone service and TV Now. Nex-Tech is also beginning pre-construction efforts in the neighborhood, so residents will start to see Nex-Tech employees and vehicles.
In September, Nex-Tech announced its intentions to bring fiber to households and additional businesses in Great Bend. Nex-Tech has already built fiber to USD 428 and dozens of businesses. The proposed fiber expansion brings many benefits to Great Bend. Jimmy Todd, Chief Executive Officer of Nex-Tech said “Our mission is to provide state-of-the-art services to Kansans and level the playing field for rural America. Access to Gig Internet provides opportunities for telemedicine, supports a work-fromhome lifestyle, recruits and retains business and prepares Great Bend for the future.”
 
Nex-Tech has been providing fiber service for nearly 25 years and was the first company in the nation to build fiber to the home when they brought fiber services to Hill City in 1996. Now, more than 60 Kansas communities are powered by Nex-Tech fiber.
 
Ryan Axman, Director of I.T. for USD 428, has Nex-Tech fiber services at home and work. Said Axman, “Before, the only options were Cox or Dish and getting a technician to come out to our location was virtually impossible. Nex-Tech treats us like it’s their hometown. Having a local company that you can go in and talk to and having technicians that live and work in the area and come to your house to take care of things is a big deal for me. The customer service and technical service has been really nice.
 
Nex-Tech is still gathering interest from the other 12 zones in Great Bend. Zone A, Twin Lakes Neighborhood, is in the lead in the interest phase. Each neighborhood that meets the required number of customers to achieve feasibility will be prioritized in the buildout process. Neighborhoods with lower interest levels may be served with a hybrid wireless Internet solution instead of fiber.
 
For more information on Nex-Tech’s fiber expansion in Great Bend, to show your interest and view the progress, visit fiber.nex-tech.com or stop by the local Nex-Tech store at 3700 10th Street.
 

Tech Edge by Nex-Tech—Great Fit for Tony’s Pizza Events Center

180 attendees make the 6th annual IT and marketing event in Salina a hit
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Salina, Kan, 06.11.19 —Nex-Tech, a leader in technological connectivity, recently wrapped up its 6th annual Tech Edge conference at Tony’s Pizza Events Center in Salina, KS. This one-day IT and marketing conference aimed at new and upcoming technology education provided 180 attendees from the public and private sectors an information-packed day full of sessions, vendors and networking opportunities.
Featured speakers were:
 
Dave Kinsey, President of Total Networks, spoke about his book, The Blockchain Code: Decrypt the Jungle of Complexity to Win the Crypto-Anarchy Game, describing blockchain, cryptocurrency and the impact technology-based currency structure has on society.
 
Mark Matthews, ATG CEO, (Bromsgrove, England) focused on corporate culture, defining exactly how his dedication to empowering employees was key toward realizing record and sustainable growth at his award-winning IT company.
 
“Nex-Tech provides the latest and best-performing technologies to rural America,” said Jimmy Todd, Nex-Tech CEO and General Manager. “Tech Edge is a place where the brightest minds in business converge to discuss and explore cutting-edge technology, ultimately defining for themselves the best ways to incorporate it into their own businesses.”
 
Throughout the day, 27 breakout sessions and 26 vendors representing 14 national manufacturers kept attendees engaged. The day ended with Prize-A-Palooza excitement as randomly selected attendees won over $11,000 in tech-savvy gadgets.
 
“The amount of value a person gets from this $75 conference is phenomenal. It doesn’t matter what business you are in, or how involved you are with technology, you will take home something essential to moving your business forward, said Steve Riat, Director of Sales, Nex-Tech. “Add a reminder to your calendar for 2020! Planning for the 7th annual Tech Edge is already in the works.”
 

Nex-Tech earns Google Partner status

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Hays, Kan, 01.14.19 —Nex-Tech is pleased to announce that the Advertising Solutions division has achieved Google Partner status and is listed on the Google Ads partner page. The Google Partner badge is for businesses that demonstrate Google Ads skills and expertise. This requires the business have at least two employees certified in Google Ads products that maintain the latest product knowledge, and meet monthly criteria for the successful use of advertising options with Google.
Digital Marketing Specialists Aubree Broyles of Hays and Daniel Schwindt of McPherson are the Nex-Tech employees that maintain certification in Google Ads. They, along with a talented team of marketing specialists, web designers, audio and video production specialists and graphic designers, provide expert Google Ads services and wide variety of digital, design, web, social media and consulting services to nearly 100 businesses throughout the United States.
 
“This recognition from Google proves that even though we live in a rural area, we’re keeping pace with technology experts around the world and bringing powerful advertising tools to our local businesses,” said Broyles.
 
Schwindt added, “It’s really an honor to be trusted by so many clients to manage these complex campaigns and influence the digital presence of their businesses.”
 
 
Nex-Tech connects thousands of people and businesses through a robust broadband network and cutting-edge technology. Nex-Tech’s powerful fiber-to-the-premise technology delivers the highest quality Internet, with speeds up to 1 Gig, streaming TV, home security, and local and long distance phone service. Nex-Tech also provides an array of enterprise solutions including cloud services, Hosted PBX, network security, managed IT, physical security and surveillance, advertising solutions, and network operations monitoring to business clients nationwide.
 
Nex-Tech focuses on providing the best technology and support with the best people. With stores in more than 20 locations, a full-service Help Desk and 24-hour Network Operations Center, Nex-Tech customers are ensured unsurpassed technology and support. Headquartered in Lenora, Kansas, Nex-Tech has been delivering exceptional service for more than 65 years.