Connect (X) 2026 to Feature AI Network and Edge Leaders from NVIDIA, Nokia, T-Mobile, American Tower, Intel, JLL, Qualcomm

Keynotes at connectivity event will explore AI‑RAN, edge computing, and the role of digital infrastructure in powering AI

ARLINGTON, Va., March 19, 2026 – Today, the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) announced its esteemed keynote panelists for Connect (X) 2026 – the only digital infrastructure event in North America uniting the entire connectivity 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 at the telecoms event 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 at the connectivity conference 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
• 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 at the digital infrastructure event 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.

The Connect (X) 2026 connectivity conference and expo will take place at the Broward County Convention Center. Register today, and book accommodations with discounted pricing until April 8, 2026.

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About Connect (X) by WIA

Connect (X) powered by the Wireless Infrastructure Association (WIA) is the only digital infrastructure event in North America that unites the industry stakeholders who deliver solutions for ubiquitous connectivity. Connect (X) delivers market intelligence, networking and deal-making for the entire communications infrastructure ecosystem.

Media Contact: media@wia.org