Keynotes will explore AI‑RAN, edge computing, and the role of digital infrastructure in powering AI
ARLINGTON, Va., March 19, 2026–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Today, the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) announced its esteemed keynote panelists for Connect (X) 2026 – the only business technology event in North America uniting the entire digital infrastructure industry – taking place May 4-6, 2026, in Fort Lauderdale, Fl. The headlining panelists comprise two sessions focused on the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in and on networks.
“Every AI breakthrough starts with data, and every data point depends on connectivity – that’s why this moment is so pivotal for our industry,” said Patrick Halley, President and CEO, WIA. “At Connect (X), WIA is thrilled to welcome leaders from NVIDIA, Nokia, T‑Mobile, American Tower, Intel, JLL, and Qualcomm as they share how they’re turning networks into the intelligent infrastructure that makes AI real – at scale, at the edge, and everywhere in between.”
The AI-Native Network: Redefining the Future of Mobile Infrastructure
AI is reshaping communications networks, as NVIDIA, Nokia, and T‑Mobile integrate accelerated computing into the RAN through AI‑RAN. This keynote panel explores how operators are turning mobile networks into AI‑powered platforms that drive efficiency today and lay the foundation for 6G with:
Kanika Atri, Senior Director – Telecoms, Nvidia
Aji Ed, VP, Head of Cloud RAN, SMO, and Network Management, Nokia
Salim Kouidri, Senior Vice President – Engineering Operations, T-Mobile
AI at the Edge: Where Compute Meets Connectivity
As AI moves into real‑time use, compute is shifting to the network edge. This keynote panel examines how edge AI infrastructure is enabling low‑latency applications and rapid AI inferencing across wireless, fiber, and enterprise environments with:
Jim Poole, Vice President Edge Data Centers, American Tower
Cristina Rodriguez, Vice President – Network & Edge, Intel
Sean Farney, Vice President Data Center Strategy – Americas, JLL
Dr. Ozge Koymen, Vice President of Technology, Qualcomm
AT&T, DigitalBridge, and Verizon to Take the Stage
Additional headlining keynotes at Connect (X) include:
Robert Walters, SVP Network Planning, Construction & Engineering, AT&T
Liam Stewart, COO, DigitalBridge
Srini Kalapala, SVP & Chief Network Officer, Wireless, Verizon
Tower Titans to Tackle the Future of Infrastructure
Keynote panelists for the annual View from the Tower session will feature some of the wireless industry’s top tower executives, offering a look at the most significant opportunities and challenges facing digital infrastructure: Ron Bizick, President & CEO, Vertical Bridge; Brendan T. Cavanagh, President & CEO, SBA Communications; Ed Farscht, CEO, Diamond Communications; Cathy Piche, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Towers, Crown Castle; and Richard Rossi, Executive Vice President and President, U.S. Tower Division, American Tower.
Connect (X) 2026 will take place at the Broward County Convention Center. Register today, and book accommodations with discounted pricing until April 8, 2026.
Connect (X) powered by the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) is the only business technology event in North America that unites the industry stakeholders who deliver infrastructure solutions for ubiquitous connectivity. Connect (X) delivers market intelligence, networking and deal-making for the entire communications infrastructure ecosystem.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260319197060/en/
Media Contact: [email protected]