Conway Corp Annual Report | 2023

COMMITTED to

INNOVATION

hen it comes to the products and services we offer, we believe our customers deserve the very best We live in a city that’s constantly growing and changing, after all, and we’re always striving to raise the bar alongside our inspiring community All year long, our team was hard at work – breaking ground on facilities, upgrading infrastructure, providing aid to neighbors and more – all with a drive for innovation

Jacoby Uekman

CONWAY CORP TEXT NOTIFICATIONS

NEW

TECHNOLOGY AND

COMMUNICATION CAPABILITIES

ARE ESSENTIAL TO MAINTAINING THE SERVICE OUR CUSTOMERS EXPECT.

Our customers have been asking for additional ways to stay in contact, so we launched text messaging and our new outage notification system in 2023 Customers can now sign up to receive text notifications about information regarding their Conway Corp services, including outage alerts, estimates of restoration times and planned maintenance The service provides a two-way conduit to customers so when there is an outage, a text message automatically goes out to customers from Conway Corp, saving time for both the customer and the utility Customers can also text the utility to report outages

Texting has not only improved the efficiency and economics of outage notification, it has also improved customer satisfaction

“When it comes to customer engagement, it is hard to beat texting,” Chief Marketing Officer Crystal Kemp said “We are proactively keeping customers informed on everything from large outage situations to maintenance updates ”

Customers can sign up to receive text message alerts from Conway Corp by texting ENROLL to (501) 450-6000.

UTILITY INFRASTRUCTURE AND STREET PROJECTS

CONWAY CORP SPENT 2023 FOCUSED ON INVESTING IN INFRASTRUCTURE AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS TO SUPPORT THE CITY’S STREET IMPROVEMENT PLANS.

Electric and water department crews helped pave the way for a brighter future by working along College Avenue to move power lines and replace water and sewer mains in preparation of the city’s road construction in that area

Crews also worked downtown upgrading water infrastructure and replacing sewer mains The majority of downtown sewer lines

were installed more than 50 years ago, and Conway has grown and changed a lot since then

Our crews began replacing more than 2,700 feet of sewer pipe downtown and will continue to work on upgrading infrastructure in this area to help keep wastewater flowing for the next 50-plus years Work is expected to be completed by the end of 2024

OPERATIONS CENTER GROUNDBREAKING

IN MAY 2023, CONWAY CORP BROKE GROUND ON A NEW OPERATIONS CENTER LOCATED ON APPROXIMATELY 60 ACRES OF LAND ON SOUTH GERMAN LANE NORTH OF STONE DAM CREEK.

The new location will include a 31,000-squarefoot office building, a 100,000-square-foot warehouse, a 22,500-square-foot fleet maintenance shop and covered parking for equipment and vehicles

“In 2017 we did a master plan of our existing operations center on Harkrider Street and realized we would completely outgrow that location in 15 years,” Conway Corp CEO Bret Carroll said “To support the current growth of Conway, we need more room and storage space With that in mind, we made the decision to begin working on a plan for a new campus with facilities and space that would meet both our current and future needs ”

Designed by H+N Architects and built by Nabholz Construction, the location is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2024

CONWAY SOLAR AT HAPPY GRAND OPENING

WE’RE COMMITTED TO PROVIDING ENVIRONMENTALLY-SOUND UTILITIES, WHICH IS WHY WE’RE CONSTANTLY LOOKING FOR WAYS TO DIVERSIFY OUR PORTFOLIO WITH RENEWABLE ENERGY.

In April 2020, we announced a 20-year purchase power agreement with Lightsource bp for the development of a 135-megawatt solar project – Conway Solar at Happy –located in White County

In October 2023, we celebrated the successful completion of this significant milestone in advancing Arkansas’s energy security and independence, while creating tangible benefits for the local community and environment

The solar farm delivers home-grown, clean energy for the economic and environmental

benefit of our customers Conway Solar is projected to generate enough clean energy to power 21,000 homes

“Work on this project began in 2019 and it is one of the most significant projects for Conway Corp since our incorporation in 1929,” Conway Corp CEO Bret Carroll said “I’m proud of the team who worked on this project and the way it fulfills key parts of our mission by providing reliable and environmentallysound electricity to our community ”

Lightsource bp developed, financed, constructed and will operate the project –

a $125 million private capital investment in Arkansas energy infrastructure They are a global leader in the financing, development and management of large-scale solar energy projects and are working to help drive the world’s transition to low carbon energy through competitively priced and sustainable electricity They will sell 100 percent of the electricity the farm generates to Conway Corp under a long-term fixed-rate purchase agreement

The Conway Solar at Happy project not only generates emissions-free energy for healthier air, but has created an opportunity to advance pollinator conservation in the area Working with the Arkansas Monarch Conservation Partnership, Lightsource bp and Conway Corp have established a five-acre native pollinator garden within the solar farm, featuring 46 varieties of Arkansas native plants This garden is crucial in providing habitat and nectar for at-risk monarch butterflies and other pollinators that support our food supply

At Lightsource bp, we believe that a solar farm can be so much more than an energy facility By sharing in this vision, our partners at Conway Corp are bringing a host of benefits to their community, from affordable energy to ecosystem health, economic development and beyond

– Emilie Wangerman, Lightsource bp Interim COO

Happy Solar:

21,000

BENEFITS

ACRES OF POLLINATOR GARDEN PROVIDING CRITICAL HABITAT FOR MONARCH BUTTERFLIES 5 QUICK FACTS

HOMES WORTH OF CLEAN ELECTRICITY PRODUCED ANNUALLY

$125,000,000

PRIVATE CAPITAL INVESTMENT BROUGHT IN TOWARD ENERGY INDEPENDENCE FOR ARKANSAS

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS OF THE PROJECT INCLUDE:

Clean Energy Generation:

The project contributes to Conway Corp’s diversified energy mix, supporting our mission to provide safe, affordable and reliable service to our customers

Healthier Air: Conway Solar at Happy supports Conway Corp’s further commitment to providing environmentally-sound service to our customers, enabling Conway Corp to abate more than 166,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually That’s equivalent to taking 35,400 fuelburning cars off the road

Economic Growth:

The solar project generated 300 jobs during construction, fostering economic growth within the region

Supporting Domestic Manufacturers: The project uses 295,000 solar modules from Arizonabased First Solar, smart solar trackers from New Mexico-based Array Technologies and steel from Attala Steel in Mississippi

300,000

SOLAR PANELS INSTALLED ON 700 ACRES

THE PANELS ARE BIFACIAL SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES ON SINGLE-AXIS TRACKERS

MEGAWATT-HOURS GENERATED ANNUALLY 235,000

132 MEGAWATTS CAPACITY

166,150

METRIC TONS OF ABATED GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS

EQUIVALENCY TO 35,400 FUEL-BURNING CARS TAKEN OFF ROAD

200 LOCAL JOBS CREATED

Left to Right: Chief Technology Officer Jason Hansen, Chief Marketing Officer Crystal Kemp, Chief Executive Officer Bret Carroll, Chief Operating Officer Greg Dell and Chief Financial Officer Erin Brown

LIGHT UP NAVAJO

IN THE HEART OF THE NAVAJO NATION, IT IS PEACEFUL, QUIET – AND DARK.

The Nation, which encompasses rural parts of Utah, Arizona and New Mexico, is home to more than 300,000 people And it’s notoriously known for its lack of reliable energy sources In fact, more than 15,000 families – about 50 percent of the residents –live each day without access to electricity

But in 2023, the lights went on in a few hundred of these homes thanks to a group of selfless heroes who stepped in and decided to help contribute an electrifying change to the Nation’s circumstances during a joint project between the American Public Power Association (APPA) and the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority (NTUA) to extend power lines and bring electricity to families living in the Navajo Nation

Conway Corp originally sent a crew to help with the Light Up Navajo project in 2019 After a two-year hiatus due to Covid-19, crews were excited to return to the reservation in April 2022 They continued their work in May 2023

The crew – consisting of Senior Lineman Jim Simpson, Journeyman Meterman Kaleb

Barkley, Journeyman Lineman Joe Bingham and Apprentice Linemen Wesley Fason and Kyle Troxler – drove more than 1,000 miles to the Navajo Nation to create and extend power lines alongside more than 175 line workers from 26 utilities in 16 different states, as well as the NTUA electric crews

The territory – slightly larger than West Virginia – represents 70 percent of all U S households without electricity To expedite electrification projects, APPA is partnering with the NTUA to invite linemen from around the country to volunteer their time, expertise and skills Conway Corp is among more than a dozen public power utilities from across the nation to participate in the project

It was a life-changing process for the Navajo people and our linemen alike

Senior Lineman Jim Simpson led the crew’s efforts and described their time in the Nation as unforgettable

“I enjoyed the vast difference in scenery between here and there,” he said “It was pretty amazing, and I enjoyed learning about different cultures of the Navajo people ”

The experience, however, wasn’t without its challenges

Density averages 4 2 houses per square mile but many are spread farther apart, making the work of installing utility poles and stringing wire more labor-intensive and timeconsuming Just driving between the secluded worksites could take two or more hours, sometimes to service just a single home

In addition to time and labor, electrifying one household is expensive Each house, on average, requires one transformer, 0 6 miles

I was moved to tears multiple times while on the reservation The way that the people responded to us trying to help them was very gratifying It was such a joy to see the excitement that the people had, once they knew they had power It was life-changing – Joe Bingham, Journeyman Lineman

Left to Right: Journeyman Meterman Kaleb Barkley, Apprentice Lineman Wesley Fason, Apprentice Lineman Kyle Troxler and Journeyman Lineman Joe Bingham

Senior Lineman Jim Simpson

of wire, nine poles, 16 insulators and two arrestors to connect to the electric grid That’s more than $5,500 per home

Hooking up the remaining 15,000 homes would tally around $1 billion including new infrastructure – which underscores just how valuable the donated labor is Homes have been without power for so long because it’s a costly process that no investor-owned utility is willing to finance

Conway Corp crew members worked 14-16 hours a day while on the reservation and were able to connect multiple families to the power grid

“We had multiple obstacles: the language barrier, building specifications because the reservation has a very specific way that they want things built,” Joe said “But I was able to use my skills I’ve been blessed to learn to bring joy to other families in a time when they needed it the most I would 100 percent enjoy returning to help ”

As their time on the reservation came to an end, a special dinner was held in appreciation of the five from Conway The event included a slide show, speeches, a native prayer and lots of tears – all as a way to say thank you

“We are so grateful that outside communities are sending their electric crews to help,” NTUA General Manager Walter Haase said “This

project made not only a positive life-changing impact on our families, but it also left a powerful impression on the lineworkers and their communities who proudly volunteer their services In my opinion, the more important thing than these people getting electricity was that they got to see that other American people cared enough about them to stop what they were doing in their lives and come help ”

The Light Up Navajo IV initiative took place during April-July 2023 and connected 159 homes to electric service Crews were helping connect homes to electricity as well as creating a foundation for additional infrastructure on the Navajo Nation including broadband and water services

“I know many of you left your families to help empower families here on the Navajo Nation,” Jonathan Nez, president of the Navajo Nation, said

Left to Right: Apprentice Lineman Wesley Fason and Journeyman Lineman Joe Bingham

WHEN DISASTER STRIKES, CONWAY CORP IS ALWAYS PROUD TO HELP OUR NEIGHBORS IN NEED.

The devastation caused by Hurricane Idalia left more than 600,000 homes and businesses in Florida without power We sent a crew to Florida with more than 58 other public power utilities as part of a coordinated mutual aid effort to help with restoration Journeyman Lineman/Training Coordinator Nathan Ball, Journeyman Lineman Joe Bingham, Apprentice Lineman Wesley Fason, Senior Lineman Clint Jones and Apprentice Lineman Cody Tackett traveled to Jacksonville, Florida and worked 16-hour days to help restore power to the area along with more than 360 lineworkers from 13 different states

Within 48 hours of Idalia’s landfall, hundreds of crews had restored power to more than 99 9 percent of public power customers who were impacted

In April, we also sent crews to North Little Rock after the city’s electric system was severely damaged by an EF3 tornado with peak winds of 165 miles per hour The storm caused trees and power lines to fall across the city causing electric outages for more than 15,000 residents Senior Lineman Jake Ballard, Journeyman Meterman Kaleb Barkley, Apprentice Lineman Blake Henderson, Journeyman Lineman Paul Langley and Apprentice Lineman Cody Tackett made the trip to help our neighbors to the south

Storms like Hurricane Idalia and the ones closer to home remind us just how important public power is When public power communities need help, we rally behind them just like they would for us Should we have a widespread outage, crews from Florida and other states are ready to assist us in getting the lights back on Public power means keeping the lights on for our friends and neighbors – across the street or across the country – and we’re proud to be a part of the public power community

ROGER Q MILLS WATER TREATMENT PLANT EXPANSION

CONWAY

CORP STAFF AND CONSULTANTS ARE DEVELOPING PLANS FOR AN 8 MILLION GALLONS PER DAY EXPANSION AT THE ROGER Q MILLS WATER TREATMENT PLANT

IN ORDER TO KEEP PACE WITH THE CITY’S CURRENT AND EXPECTED GROWTH IN THE FUTURE.

Conway Corp has a master plan for water supply to ensure the needs of our customers are met well into the future The existing plant capacity is 24 MGD The plant has currently reached 80 percent capacity which signifies the need for expansion planning

“We have a Water Supply Master Plan to ensure the needs of our customers are met as well as the future needs of residential and commercial customers who aren’t here yet,”

Chief Operating Officer Greg Dell said “The plan is frequently evaluated and updated as new data becomes available, which helps us stay ahead of the water demand curve ”

The expansion will bring the plant capacity to 32 MGD Construction is expected to begin in 2025, and the expansion is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2027

“New water supply projects take a very long time to be approved and built, as there is significant regulatory oversight to develop these projects,” Greg said “Because it takes so long to obtain regulatory approval, we are

right now designing infrastructure we won’t build until 2040 and securing water rights that won’t be needed until well beyond 2050 ”

The plant, located off Old Morrilton Highway, was designed to be expanded for future growth needs and has not seen an expansion since 2001 Conway Corp has secured more than $39 million in loans and grants for the expansion in allocations from the Arkansas Natural Resources Division

CONWAYCORPTV TRANSITION

CONWAY CORP HAS

BEEN AN INNOVATIVE LEADER

IN

VIDEO SERVICES SINCE WE FIRST BEGAN OFFERING CABLE TELEVISION TO OUR CUSTOMERS IN 1981.

Telecommunications has changed a lot in the last 40 years, and we’ve continuously provided our customers with the most cutting-edge technology available

In 2020, we officially launched ConwayCorpTV and brought shows, movies, live sports, Wampus Cat coverage and more directly to the streaming devices of our customers In 2023, we began transitioning all Conway Corp video customers from traditional legacy cable services to ConwayCorpTV

ConwayCorpTV gives customers greater viewing flexibility while also eliminating the need for a cable box In addition, customers have more control over channels they choose to subscribe to and can save money on equipment costs

Streaming apps like ConwayCorpTV are more user-friendly for consumers and allow us to meet the evolving needs of our customers We expect to move all customers to ConwayCorpTV by the end of 2024

HISTORIC ELECTRIC AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS OUTAGE

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS WITH STRAIGHT-LINE WINDS UP TO 127 MPH IN FAULKNER COUNTY CAUSED A PATH OF WIDESPREAD DAMAGE ACROSS THE CITY LATE AFTERNOON ON SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2023.

We experienced significant damages to our infrastructure that were worse than the historic ice storm of 2000 This resulted in an unprecedented days-long outage for some of our customers

Approximately 6,736 electric outages were caused by fallen trees, downed power poles and damaged overhead electric lines across 47 neighborhoods in the city With the combined efforts of our electric department crews, contractor and visiting crews, we successfully restored power to the entire distribution system by noon on Friday, June 30

For the first time in more than 20 years, we requested mutual aid from our public power family Crews from Benton Utilities, the City of Bentonville and Paragould Municipal Utilities arrived in less than 24 hours and began working in the field alongside our crews These

crews worked 16-hour shifts and rotated crews 24-hours a day so multiple crews were always working in the field at any given time to get power restored as quickly and safely as possible

Our telecommunications and water department crews assisted our electric department with cleanup and tree removal where possible to expedite the restoration process We also hired contractors to help

At the peak of outages, Conway Corp was also reporting an estimated 5,000 additional customers across the city without telecommunication services Our telecom crews collaborated with our electric department to expedite electric service restoration while also restoring 97 percent of telecom services by Wednesday, June 28

30+

15 meter cans replaced

overhead/pad-mount transformers destroyed

85 HOMES BUILT

$1,281,253

TOTAL DOLLAR AMOUNT OF LOANS CUSTOMER SAVINGS PER YEAR $2,056,197

419 LOANS TO DATE

$36,691,596

ENERGY SAVINGS SINCE 2009 $13,985,718 FOR LIFE OF SAVINGS MEASURES

103,874

METRIC TONS OF EMISSIONS SAVED SINCE 2009 –EQUAL TO ANNUAL EMISSION OF 13,091 HOMES

ACHIEVEMENT

ur team members are the best of the best – with the hardware and hard

This year, many earned prestigious awards across specialties

APPRENTICE LINEMAN

Kyle Troxler

MID-AMERICA CABLE TELECOMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION – CSE AWARDS

TWENTY-FIVE CONWAY CORP EMPLOYEES WERE RECOGNIZED IN APRIL 2023 WITH CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCELLENCE AWARDS DURING THE MID-AMERICA CABLE SHOW HELD

IN OMAHA, NEBRASKA.

Trouble Technician James Buggs , Customer Care Specialist Michelle Hatfield , Installer Technician

Nathan Hudgens Marketing and Communications Manager Beth McCullough Jimmerson , Business Solutions Manager Eleise Wood Myers and Customer Service

Manager Jaylene Sexton were recognized with Five Star awards in the area of service

Customer Care Specialists Rachel Fleming and Kelly Johnston along with Installer Technicians Aaron Julian and Robert McCray were honored with Four Star awards in the area of service

Lead Customer Service Specialist Eric Bell , Customer Service

Specialists Jennifer Brannon and Savannah Tindall as well as Customer Care Specialists Marilyn Boswell and Marcelo Maldonado and Customer Care

Team Leader Nicole Pizzolato , were all recognized for Five Star awards in the area of sales

Customer Care Specialists Chelsi Benton , Neil Holman , Renisenb McGehee and Briana Jackson as well as Customer Service

Specialists Toby Hibbs , Emily Keller and Tressie Mazen were all honored with Four Star awards in the area of sales

recognized for excellence regionally

– we take great pride in that,”

Conway Corp Chief Marketing Officer Crystal Kemp said “I am thankful for the work they do every day for Conway Corp and our community ”

The Customer Service Excellence Award program was established by cable television professionals in 1986 to recognize and award customer care professional excellence in the cable television industry

Installer Technician Aaron Julian and Trouble Technicians Aaron Reynolds and Matthew Stephens were recognized with Five Star awards in the extra mile category

“We make it our mission to exceed customer expectations, so when so many of our employees are

The Mid-America Cable Association is an industry association formed in 1958 to help telecommunication providers promote technical excellence, superior customer service, exemplary marketing and student scholarship

Members include telecommunications system operators in Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas

Aaron Reynolds

Jennifer Brannon

Chelsi Benton

Marcelo Maldonado

James Buggs

Marilyn Boswell

Savannah Tindall

Michelle Hatfield

Neil Holman

Renisenb McGehee

Toby Hibbs Briana Jackson

Beth McCullough Jimmerson

Nicole Pizzolato

Nathan Hudgens Eleise Wood Myers Jaylene Sexton

Rachel Fleming Kelly Johnston Aaron Julian Robert McCray Eric Bell

Emily Keller Tressie Mazen

Matthew Stephens

MID-AMERICA CABLE TELECOMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION – MIDI AWARDS

CONWAY CORP’S MARKETING DIVISION WON THREE MIDI AWARDS AT THE 2023 MID-AMERICA CABLE SHOW HELD IN OMAHA, NEBRASKA.

Senior Production Coordinator Wayne Bailey and Production Coordinator Ashtyn Brown received honors in the Community Programming (for less than 50,000 subscribers) category for “Gamer Gab,” Conway Corp’s first online exclusive show which offers game news, reviews and gab

Marketing & Communications Manager Beth McCullough Jimmerson was named the winner in both Brand Campaign (for less than 50,000 subscribers) as well as the Best in Show MIDI Award 2023 for her work on the “ConwayCorpTV” campaign

“I love seeing the work of our marketing and video production teams showcased on a

regional stage,” Conway Corp Chief Marketing Officer Crystal Kemp said “I am very proud to see that work recognized with the MIDI award by their industry peers ”

The Mid-America Cable Telecommunications Association presents MIDI Awards annually to honor the best advertising and programming among association members in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas

Conway Corp competed against similar-sized systems with 10,001-50,000 subscribers

POWER EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNICATIONS AWARDS

CONWAY CORP’S MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT WAS RECOGNIZED WITH TWO AWARDS BY THE AMERICAN PUBLIC POWER ASSOCIATION DURING THEIR EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC POWER COMMUNICATIONS AWARDS CEREMONY.

Conway Corp received the Award of Excellence in the print/digital category for its 2022 Annual Report titled “Always On for Conway ” Conway Corp Marketing and Communications Manager Beth McCullough Jimmerson worked with advertising agency Eric Rob & Isaac to produce the campaign

Conway Corp was also honored with an Award of Merit in the social media category for their work during the extended power outage in June of 2023 The department kept customers informed during the outage and answered more than 2,000 messages and comments over the four days

The annual awards are designed to encourage and recognize excellence in communications Awards were given to those who showed ingenuity and creativity in telling their stories through outstanding copy, design, financial data presentation, graphics, social media engagement, video editing, web layout and interactivity

We have a great story to tell and this team works hard to clearly and creatively tell that story This recognition shines a light on their work and the value it brings to Conway Corp and to public power – Bret Carroll, Chief Executive Officer

The awards were announced at the APPA Customer Connections Conference in San Antonio, Texas, in November

The APPA Communications Awards have been held annually for more than 65 years APPA is the voice of not-for-profit, communityowned utilities that power more than 2,000 towns and cities nationwide They advocate and advise on electricity policy, technology, trends, training and operations while also representing the interests of the more than 49 million people that public power utilities serve and the 96,000 people they employ

Wayne Bailey

Ashtyn Brown

Beth McCullough Jimmerson

BRET CARROLL AND CRYSTAL KEMP –CABLEFAX 100 HONOREES

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER BRET CARROLL AND CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER CRYSTAL KEMP WERE NAMED CABLEFAX 100 TOP POWER PLAYERS BY CABLEFAX MAGAZINE.

The publication provides coverage of business developments affecting the cable, broadband and digital markets Cablefax’s annual list salutes and ranks the most influential executives whose leadership continues to advance and elevate the telecommunications industry

Bret was recognized for the fourth consecutive year while Crystal is a first-time honoree

In the magazine, the Cablefax editors recognized Bret’s leadership to Conway Corp and how he has directed a recent business operations assessment for the company and guided the company through several leadership retirements He has also found time to give back to the community, serving Conway through his volunteering AR811, Arkansas Municipal Powering Association and the Conway Development Corporation

Crystal was lauded by the editors of the magazine for her leadership, training and product development of ConwayCorpTV, the company’s new streaming television service

Her longtime service to the youth in Conway was also recognized Crystal was a Girl Scout leader for 18 years, spent more than 20 years as a volunteer with the Conway Area Youth Leadership Institute and most recently was a Circle of Influence leader for the University of Central Arkansas Women’s Leadership Network

Bret has been with Conway Corp for 25 years, serving as chief financial officer prior to being named CEO in 2017 Crystal joined the company in 2000 as marketing/ communications coordinator and was promoted to marketing and public relations manager in 2010, then to chief marketing officer in 2018

CONWAY CORP –TOWER OF EXCELLENCE AWARD

CONWAY CORP HONORED CALL CENTER SUPERVISOR LESIA WHITE WITH THE COMPANY’S TOWER OF EXCELLENCE AWARD.

The award recognizes an employee who has made a significant impact on Conway Corp through outstanding dedication and exceptional job performance Lesia was nominated by her fellow co-workers for going above and beyond in 2023

Several co-workers cited Lesia’s ability to build strong relationships throughout the company as a driving force behind her nomination

One nomination for her said,

Lesia is known as the ‘go to’ for getting things done, not only implementing change within the customer service team but identifying areas of concern and addressing them with other departments

She was also nominated in part for her ability to lead by example

“The consistent focus Lesia has for her team to do more than the customer requests has raised the bar for every customer interaction,” Conway Corp Customer Service Manager

Jaylene Sexton said “She is consistently able to view the big picture for the company, team and customers to make decisions that impact all in positive ways ”

Lesia attributes her success thus far to taking herself out of the equation

“My number one priority is to always focus on the things that I can control and remembering that it’s not about me,” she said “I can listen and can offer resolutions When you remove your feelings, needs and wants from the interaction – even the toughest ones are immediately changed to the best ones ”

Lesia originally worked part-time at Conway Corp and was hired as a full-time customer service specialist in 2012 She was promoted to call center supervisor in 2014

Lesia White

CONWAY CORP –SAFETY LEADERSHIP AWARD

CONWAY CORP IS DEDICATED TO DOING THINGS THE RIGHT WAY, AND WE REFUSE TO COMPROMISE THE SAFETY OF OURSELVES, OUR CO-WORKERS OR OUR CUSTOMERS.

To honor that commitment, we recognize an employee each year for their safety efforts by recognizing an employee who inspires, improves and maintains best practices in safety

This year, Wastewater Plant Operator Lance Harwell earned the company’s annual Safety Leadership Award Lance was nominated by his fellow co-workers for going above and beyond his job duties in 2023

Lance was nominated by multiple coworkers for his willingness to answer any questions or concerns as well as his attention to safety issues and protocols

One nomination for him said:

Lance communicates concerns and helps keep others in his area informed His attention to safety issues and concerns is noticeable even outside his department He has made it his mission to make sure his coworkers are always in the know and heard when it comes to safety

Lance, an active member of Conway Corp’s internal safety committee, makes safety a priority each and every day

“Lance is always willing to take the extra step to ensure that safety is a top priority for whatever task is being completed at the plant and also take the time to teach and promote safety to the new team members,” Water Systems Manager Lee Tedford said “Lance has shown a great initiative at demonstrating safety as a core value not only for himself but also for his co-workers ”

Lance joined the company in 2006 as an operator apprentice at the wastewater plant He was promoted to plant operator in 2009

CONWAY CORP –CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD

CONWAY CORP IS DEDICATED TO EXCEEDING CUSTOMERS’ EXPECTATIONS THROUGH THE EXCEPTIONAL WORK OF ITS EMPLOYEES AND RECOGNIZES EMPLOYEES ANNUALLY FOR THEIR INDIVIDUAL DEDICATION TO THE MISSION OF THE COMPANY.

This year, Customer Service Specialist Jennifer Brannon was honored with the company’s Customer Service Award Jennifer was nominated by her fellow co-workers for being dedicated to improving customer satisfaction and consistently striving to exceed customer expectations internally and externally

One nomination for her said,

Jennifer not only helps customers, but takes ownership of any customer inquiry from start to finish She regularly goes above and beyond, following up with customers after their appointments as well as answering any additional questions

She was also nominated for keeping kindness and patience at the forefront of all her interactions

“Her goal is to always show kindness no matter the situation,” Conway Corp Customer Service Manager Jaylene Sexton said “She applies this philosophy every day at Conway Corp and continually looks to improve herself and her team ”

Jennifer started at Conway Corp in April 2021

Jennifer Brannon

Lance Harwell

APPA RP3 DIAMOND DESIGNATION

CONWAY

CORP EARNED A RELIABLE PUBLIC POWER

PROVIDER (RP3) DIAMOND LEVEL DESIGNATION FROM THE AMERICAN PUBLIC POWER ASSOCIATION (APPA) AND RECEIVED NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR PROVIDING RELIABLE AND SAFE ELECTRIC SERVICE.

This is the second consecutive cycle in which Conway Corp has earned the Diamond Level designation, the highest level achievable within the RP3 designation In 2020, the company scored 98 of a possible 100 points In 2022, Conway Corp scored a perfect score of 100 points and remains the only public power utility in the state to receive the Diamond designation

This is a great honor We take a lot of pride in the work we do to power our community We are consistently looking to improve our workforce, system reliability and safety to serve Conway better, and this recognition is a testament to the hard work of all our staff to ensure that we keep Conway powered

– Bret Carroll, Chief Executive Officer

The designation recognizes public power utilities that demonstrate proficiency in four key disciplines: reliability, safety, workforce development and system improvement Criteria include sound business practices and a utility-wide commitment to safe and reliable delivery of electricity

Nationwide, the average public power customer has their lights out for less than half

the amount of time that customers of other utilities do

“Receiving an RP3 designation is a great honor signifying a utility has demonstrated commitment to industry best practices and to providing highly reliable power to their customers,” Troy Adams, chair of APPA’s RP3 review panel, said “We commend these utilities for their hard work when it comes to keeping the lights on in their communities ”

Conway Corp was the first utility in Arkansas to be recognized with an RP3 designation when it was presented with the Platinum Level designation in 2013, a designation the company earned again in 2017

The APPA is the voice of not-for-profit, community-owned utilities that power more than 2,000 towns and cities nationwide They advocate and advise on electricity policy, technology, trends, training and operations while also representing the interests of the more than 49 million people that public power utilities serve and the 96,000 people they employ

APPA SAFETY AWARD OF EXCELLENCE

CONWAY CORP

EARNED THE AMERICAN PUBLIC POWER ASSOCIATION’S SAFETY AWARD OF EXCELLENCE FOR SAFE OPERATING PRACTICES.

This is the second time Conway Corp won the category for utilities with between 110,000 and 249,999 worker-hours of annual worker exposure

“Safety needs to be the first thing on every utility employee’s mind as they go about their work,” said Jim Boyd, Chair of APPA’s Safety Committee and Electric Operations Safety Manager at Tacoma Power, Tacoma Washington “The utilities honored by APPA for excellence in this area should be proud of the culture they have instilled in serving their communities ”

Nearly 300 utilities from across the country entered the annual Safety Awards Entrants were placed in categories according to their number of worker-hours and ranked based on incident-free records and overall state of their safety programs and culture The incidence rate is based on the number of work-related reportable injuries or illnesses and the number of worker-hours during 2022, as defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Here at Conway Corp, safety is a core value We want to make sure our employees go home to their families safely every single day, and we are proud to be honored for all the work that goes into standing behind this committment

– Brent Fason, Safety Director

The APPA Safety Awards have been held annually for more than 65 years APPA is the voice of not-for-profit, community-owned utilities that power more than 2,000 towns and cities nationwide They advocate and advise on electricity policy, technology, trends, training and operations while also representing the interests of the more than 49 million people that public power utilities serve and the 96,000 people they employ

CABLEFAX

FAXIES

–2023 TECH TEAM OF THE YEAR

CONWAY CORP’S TECHNOLOGY DIVISION WAS RECOGNIZED BY CABLEFAX MAGAZINE AS THE 2023 TECH TEAM OF THE YEAR FOR THE SUPPORT THEY PROVIDED DURING THE DEVELOPMENT AND LAUNCH OF CONWAYCORPTV, THE COMPANY’S VIDEO STREAMING SERVICE.

Cablefax Magazine’s annual THE FAXIES edition recognizes excellence in public relations and marketing across the industry The magazine recognizes winners in several categories, and Conway Corp’s technology division was recognized in the Executives & Teams category

The issue praised Conway Corp’s transition to a fully supported cloud-based system by bringing together the headend, development, customer service and LAN teams to complete huge changes to billing systems and processes with minimal customer disruption

We are proud of the work our technology team does and the ways they work across the company to bring innovative solutions for our customers This national recognition is a testament to the world-class technology we provide in our hometown

– Bret Carroll, Chief Executive Officer

NCTC BEST MARKETING CAMPAIGN

CONWAY CORP’S MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT WON THE 2023 BEST MARKETING CAMPAIGN BRAND AWARENESS AWARD FROM THE NATIONAL CONTENT AND TECHNOLOGY COOPERATIVE.

The award recognizes exceptional work produced by telecommunications companies and marketing professionals across the country Winners represent leading practices across all communication platforms as the best in the field

Conway Corp took home the award for its “ConwayCorpTV” marketing, which included television, print and digital advertising

The NCTC is a not-for-profit corporation that operates as a programming, broadband

solutions and hardware purchasing organization for its more than 700 member companies who own and operate video and broadband systems throughout the U S and its territories

Chief Marketing Officer Crystal Kemp, Marketing and Communications Manager Beth McCullough Jimmerson and NCTC VP of Marketing and Communications Pam Gillies

BRET CARROLL –ARKANSAS MONEY AND POLITICS RECOGNITIONS

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER BRET CARROLL WAS NAMED A 2023 C-SUITE EXECUTIVE AND A 2023 TOP 100 PROFESSIONAL BY ARKANSAS MONEY AND POLITICS.

Both awards – voted on by AMP readers –recognize hard workers who help drive the state’s economic engine while also contributing to their local community

Bret has been with Conway Corp for 25 years, serving as chief financial officer prior to being named CEO in 2017 He earned a BBA in accounting and an MBA from the University of Central Arkansas and is a certified public accountant He is recognized by the American Public Power Association as a certified public power manager

He serves on a number of industry boards, including the Arkansas Cable and Telecommunications Association, Arkansas Municipal Power Association, Arkansas One-Call, Conway Development Corporation, Mid-America Cable Television Association and the Mid-Arkansas Water Alliance

He is active with numerous organizations and has served on several nonprofit boards, including the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Boys and Girls Club, Gideons International, Rotary International, Salvation Army and the United Way of Central Arkansas

CONWAY PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION –FRIEND OF THE DISTRICT

THE CONWAY PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION HONORED CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER CRYSTAL KEMP WITH THE ORGANIZATION’S FRIEND OF THE DISTRICT AWARD AT THE 2023 HALL OF HONOR GALA.

Crystal has been involved with leadership programs for Conway students for nearly three decades and believes that introducing ways for students to connect at an early age makes all the difference in their lives and the vibrancy of our community In 1996, she created the Faulkner County Youth Leadership Institute (now the Conway Area Youth Leadership Institute), which she continues to serve

A proud band mom, she was actively involved with Conway Bands for 12 years, serving on the Conway Band Booster Board for four years During her tenure, she led the fundraising effort to replace the 20-yearold band uniforms As a Girl Scouts leader for 18 years, she worked with more than 100 K-12 students Through her work with Conway Corp, she has been involved with the Energy Smart Essay contest, local STEM nights and the Conway Public Schools Teacher Fair

Crystal joined the company in 2000 as marketing/communications coordinator and was promoted to marketing and public relations manager in 2010 then to chief marketing officer in 2018

Bret Carroll

Retirees

Our people are our pride, and we saw several off into retirement in 2023 With a combined total of more than 300 years at Conway Corp, we’re proud to call these employees part of the company’s legacy

24 years

Vance Daniel

Vance joined the company in 1999 as an account executive in the advertising department In 2002, he was promoted to Senior Account Executive Vance was instrumental in growing local advertising for Conway Corp and spent his career helping local companies boost their marketing efforts through video advertising

44 years

Tilden Fulmer

Tilden was hired at Conway Corp in July 1979 as a plant operator in the wastewater department He was promoted to Chief Plant Operator in 1998 During his four-decade career, Tilden worked tirelessly to ensure that Conway’s wastewater plant was running at peak efficiency 24 hours a day, seven days a week to protect the health of Conway residents

34 years

Mike Brakebill

Mike started at Conway Corp in 1989 as a utility worker in the water department He was promoted to Water Systems Foreman in 2005 Mike oversaw the construction crew that installed infrastructure upgrades and new developments across the city of Conway His hard work will benefit Conway residents for years to come

18 years

Michael Chapman

Michael started at Conway Corp in 2005 as a land acquisition coordinator and was promoted to major accounts manager in 2006 He was promoted to power supply manager in 2014 and again in 2019 to Director of Power Supply and Major Accounts Michael helped ensure Conway residents had affordable and abundant electricity and was an integral part of Conway Corp’s first solar projects at Blaney Hill and Happy

29 years

Preston Glover

Preston started his career at Conway Corp in 1994 as a groundman in the electric department and was promoted to electric meter tester in 1999 In 2007, Preston successfully completed a four-year apprentice program and was promoted to journeyman meterman He was promoted to Senior Meterman in 2017 Preston was responsible for electric meters across the city and ensured they were calibrated and working properly 18

27 years

Gail Manion

Gail was hired in 1996 as an accountant and promoted to senior accountant in 1999 In 2003 she was named the general accounting supervisor and promoted again in 2015 to Controller for the company Gail was responsible for the financial accounting of the company as well as other critical financial processes ranging from payroll and accounts payable to fixed assets and job costing

27

44 years

Mike McKaskle

Mike began his career at Conway Corp in 1979 as a water plant operator at the Roger Q Mills Water Treatment Plant and was promoted to Chief Plant Operator in 1998 Mike spent his career helping provide fresh, clean water to the city of Conway, ensuring citizens and businesses had the safest and highest quality of water possible during his four-decade tenure

Tracy Moore

Tracy started at Conway Corp in 1987 as the data processing manager He was promoted to accounting services manager in 1996 and became the company’s accounting compliance and risk management manager in 2012 In 2017, Tracy was promoted to Chief Financial Officer During Tracy’s tenure, Conway residents enjoyed an electric rate lower than the national average

36 36 years

34 years

Keith Rains

Keith was hired as a temporary labor employee in 1989 and was promoted to a full time employee as a plant operator a few months later He was promoted to chief plant operator in 1994 and again in 1998 to Water Plant Superintendent Keith was responsible for the continuous operation of the Roger Q Mills Water Treatment Plant and ensured delivery of safe drinking water to the residents of Conway for more than three decades

41 years

Jody Smith

Jody joined the company in 1982 as a cable/ electronics technician He was promoted to cable TV supervisor in 1993 and again in 2000 to assistant superintendent of the department In 2014, he was named the Cable Telecommunication Systems Manager During his tenure, Jody helped oversee Conway Corp’s transition from a citywide analog cable system to an all-digital system

41 37 34 44

37 years

Tony Van Pelt

Tony joined the company in 1985 as a groundman in the electric department He started the apprentice lineman program in 1989 and was promoted to journeyman lineman in 1993 Tony transferred to the engineering department in November 1996 He held various positions in the department before being promoted to CATV senior project manager in October 2010 In October 2018, he was promoted to Safety and Emergency Management Director Tony worked daily to keep safety a top priority for crews and the community

Promotions

We’re proud to see our employees progress in their careers – and proud they choose to do so at Conway Corp Congratulations to our employees who earned promotions to executive staff in 2023

Brent Fason

SAFETY DIRECTOR

Erin Brown CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Conway Corp promoted Erin Brown to Chief Financial Officer in July 2023

As CFO, Erin oversees Conway Corp’s financial activities as well as power supply, safety and cybersecurity

“I’ve had the privilege of working with Erin on a number of matters, and he consistently does outstanding work,” Chief Executive Officer Bret Carroll said “He has been crucial to the success of projects like Conway Solar at Happy, and I know he will continue to guide our company forward ”

Erin began at Conway Corp in 2019 as a power supply analyst and was promoted to director of power supply in early 2023

Cassie Francisco CONTROLLER

Conway Corp promoted Brent Fason to Safety Director in March 2023

Safety is a core value and priority for all Conway Corp employees, and Brent evaluates work environments and provides direction in safety practices, procedures and activities to prevent workplace injuries

“Brent’s years of exemplary service in operations, combined with his most recent outstanding service as safety coordinator, made him an excellent choice as our next safety director,” Chief Executive Officer Bret Carroll said “Brent is invested in making sure all of our employees make it home safely to their families each and every day ”

Brent started with Conway Corp in the water department in 2003 and was promoted to safety coordinator in 2019

Conway Corp promoted Cassie Francisco to Controller in August 2023

As controller, Cassie is responsible for all of the financial accounting for company departments including electric, water, sewer and cable She will also oversee critical financial processes ranging from payroll and accounts payable to fixed assets and job costing

“Cassie is an invaluable team member who has demonstrated remarkable leadership qualities that inspire and motivate those around her,” Chief Financial Officer Erin Brown said

Cassie started with Conway Corp as an accountant in 2015 and was promoted to assistant controller in 2022

Robert Meek

ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM MANAGER

Conway Corp promoted Robert Meek to Electric Distribution System Manager in January 2023

As manager, Robert is responsible for directing and coordinating the operation of the electric department He and his team establish materials, production and quality control standards

“Robert is an excellent manager for our electric department and an exceptional leader for Conway Corp,” Chief Operating Officer Greg Dell said “It is critical that our

electric crews know their boss ‘has their back’ – especially when they are out in the middle of a storm or dangerous situation Robert is that man He is trusted by those who work with him and for him ”

Robert started at Conway Corp in the electric department as a groundman in 1999 and was promoted to journeyman lineman in 2005 In 2020, he was promoted to senior foreman and named assistant manager of the department in 2022

Eleise Wood Myers

BUSINESS SOLUTIONS MANAGER

Conway Corp promoted Eleise Wood Myers to Business Solutions Manager in November 2023

The Business Solutions team is responsible for commercial service sales including advertising, internet, video and voice services to small-and-medium-sized businesses as well as fiber/advanced services to enterprise customers In addition, they manage customer support for key accounts

“Eleise has been with Conway Corp for 15 years,” Conway Corp Chief Marketing Officer Crystal Kemp said “She brings a wealth of

industry knowledge and customer service experience to this new leadership role I am excited to see her lead our Business Solutions team ”

Eleise joined Conway Corp in 2008 as a customer care specialist In 2012, she was promoted to a commercial sales account executive and worked to grow the Conway Corp commercial voice and internet business In 2018, she became business solutions sales engineer, working with departments across the company to build Conway Corp’s hosted voice and fiber business

Tommy Nolen

TELECOMMUNICATION SYSTEMS MANAGER

Conway Corp promoted Tommy Nolen to Telecommunication Systems Manager in August 2023

As manager, Tommy manages day-to-day operations of the cable department by overseeing maintenance, construction and installation of the cable system as well as overseeing budgets and inventory on vehicles, modems, cable boxes and other equipment

“Tommy is a self-starter who sees an area for change or growth and dedicates himself

to learning how to best serve that need,” Chief Operating Officer Greg Dell said “He is a trusted employee and a natural leader who will do a great job of serving his department and our customers I look forward to watching him in his new role ”

Tommy started with Conway Corp in 2000 as a cable TV installer trainee and was most recently promoted to senior foreman of the department in 2020

COMMITTED to

EXCELLENCE

t’s one thing to have an incredible team It’s another to have an incredible team that’s dedicated to becoming even better Several of our employees sought out education, professional development, industry certifications and more last year, and we can’t wait to see how they’ll put all they’ve learned to use

HUMAN RESOURCES TECHNICIAN

Yolonda Harris

Certifications

Darrell Yates CALI GRADUATION

Business Solutions Account

Executive Darrell Yates was among 48 individuals to graduate from the Conway Area Leadership Institute in February 2023

The eight-month CALI curriculum is based on Conway2035, the city’s long-range strategic plan that was developed with the input of more than 1,400 area residents The Conway2035 plan includes 132 goals spread across seven sectors: Keep Conway Active, Keep Conway Building, Keep Conway Creative, Keep Conway Learning, Keep Conway Moving, Keep Conway Safe and Keep Conway Working A focus on the city’s vision and future direction is a hallmark of the leadership program

Class participants experience first-hand how community leaders, businesses and organizations make a difference in Conway every day while developing their own leadership skills and role in the success of the community

“As a part of our business bolutions team, Darrell is focused on the needs of our business and large industry customers,” Conway Corp Chief Marketing Officer Crystal Kemp said “His completion of this leadership program demonstrates his commitment to serving our customers with excellence and enhancing the quality of life in Conway for all residents ”

Levi Arendall

CLASS IV WATER DISTRIBUTION CERTIFICATION

Utility Worker Apprentice Levi

Arendall earned the Class IV Water Distribution certification from the Arkansas Department of Health

“We are fortunate to have Levi on our team,” Water Systems Manager Lee Tedford said “Earning this certification requires specialized training and the knowledge to properly operate a water distribution system ”

Levi joined Conway Corp in March 2022

Lane Hall

CLASS IV WATER DISTRIBUTION CERTIFICATION

Utility Worker Apprentice Lane

Hall earned the Class IV Water Distribution certification from the Arkansas Department of Health

“Lane is dedicated to his work at Conway Corp,” Water Systems Manager Lee Tedford said “His hard work and dedication to the water system will be seen for many years to come ”

Lane joined Conway Corp in March 2022

Zac Hall

CLASS IV WATER DISTRIBUTION CERTIFICATION

Water Systems Designer Zac Hall earned the Class IV Water Distribution certification from the Arkansas Department of Health

“Zac’s attainment of the Class IV Water Distribution license is characteristic of his initiative, and we are proud of him for accomplishing this milestone,” Engineering & Planning Manager Brett McDaniel said “This achievement is the top level of licensing for water plant operators and will further support his success in design of water systems for Conway Corp and the community ”

Zac started at Conway Corp in September 2022

Landon Hamilton

CLASS IV WATER DISTRIBUTION CERTIFICATION

Utility Worker Landon Hamilton earned the Class IV Water Distribution certification from the Arkansas Department of Health

“Landon is dedicated to his work,” Water Systems Manager Lee Tedford said “Earning this certification requires specialized training and the knowledge to properly operate a water distribution system ”

Landon started at Conwa in 2019 and was promoted to his current position in 2023

CLASS IV WATER DISTRIBUTION CERTIFICATION

This certification –the top level of achievement for licensed water distributors in the state – requires more than 96 hours of advanced training in water distribution, rules, regulations and compliance

Brent Henderson

CLASS IV WATER DISTRIBUTION CERTIFICATION

Utility Worker Brent Henderson earned the Class IV Water Distribution certification from the Arkansas Department of Health

“We are fortunate to have Brent on our team,” Water Systems Manager Lee Tedford said “This license requires years of specialized training, and Brent has put in the work ”

Brent was hired as a utility worker apprentice in 2019 and was promoted to his current position in 2023

Mitch Hurley

CLASS IV WATER

DISTRIBUTION CERTIFICATION

Water Systems Foreman Mitch Hurley earned the Class IV Water Distribution certification from the Arkansas Department of Health

“Mitch has quickly shown himself a qualified and dependable employee,” Water Systems Manager Lee Tedford said “He is an asset to our team, and the water system will see the benefits from his work for years to come Having passed a difficult test, he is on course to becoming an even greater asset to our water treatment team ”

Mitch started at Conway Corp in 2020 as a utility worker apprentice and was promoted to his current position in 2023

Logan Palmer

CLASS IV WATER

DISTRIBUTION CERTIFICATION

Utility Worker Apprentice Logan

Palmer earned the Class IV Water Distribution certification from the Arkansas Department of Health

“Logan has made great strides in learning the many aspects of the distribution and collection system,” Conway Corp Water Systems Manager Lee Tedford said “Logan has a great attitude and is always ready for the next challenge ” Logan joined Conway Corp in February 2021

Tyler Pierce

CLASS IV WATER

DISTRIBUTION CERTIFICATION

Utility Worker Apprentice Tyler

Pierce earned the Class IV Water Distribution certification from the Arkansas Department of Health

“Tyler has shown great initiative in learning the many aspects of the water system,” Water Systems

Manager Lee Tedford said “I am glad to have Tyler on the team and look forward to him becoming a great asset to Conway Corp ”

Tyler started at Conway Corp in January 2022

John Stewart

CLASS IV WATER

DISTRIBUTION CERTIFICATION

Utility Worker John Stewart earned the Class IV Water Distribution certification from the Arkansas Department of Health

“We are fortunate to add John to our team of Class IV Water Treatment operators,” Conway Corp Water Systems Manager Lee Tedford said “Passing this exam shows he has the knowledge to properly operate a water distribution system ”

John started as a utility worker apprentice in 2022 and was promoted to his current position in 2023

Zach Stubbs

CLASS IV WATER DISTRIBUTION CERTIFICATION

Senior Utility Worker Zach Stubbs earned the Class IV Water Distribution certification from the Arkansas Department of Health

“This impressive achievement shows Zach’s dedication to Conway Corp and the Conway community,” Water Systems Manager Lee Tedford said “This license requires years of specialized training and experience that only a few can accomplish ”

Zach started at Conway Corp in 2005 as a utility worker apprentice and was promoted to utility worker in 2010 He was promoted to his current position in 2023

Aidan Casey

CLASS IV WATER TREATMENT CERTIFICATION

Plant Operator Apprentice

Aidan Casey passed the Water Treatment Class IV exam and earned the Class IV Water Treatment license from the Arkansas Department of Health

“Aidan has quickly shown himself a qualified and dependable operator,” Water Plant Superintendent Daniel Lawrence said “Having passed a difficult test, he is on course to becoming an even greater asset to our water treatment team ”

Aidan began his career with Conway Corp in October 2020 He was hired as a utility worker apprentice and transferred to the water plant in December 2022

Brandon McNew

CISCO SD-WAN OPERATION & DEPLOYMENT CERTIFICATION

Network Engineer Brandon McNew earned the Cisco SD-WAN Operation and Deployment certification after successfully completing the required coursework and labs

This certification ensures network professionals know how to deploy, manage and operate a secure, programmable and scalable SD-WAN fabric

Earning this certification also renewed Brandon as a Cisco Certified Networking Professional The CCNP, which has to be renewed every 3 years, is a professional-level certification that is widely recognized in the networking industry

“I’ve had the privilege of working with Brandon for more than 10 years, and he consistently does outstanding work,” Network Engineering & Operations Manager Roy Grubb said “We are proud of the focus and dedication he has shown by studying for and passing his certification exam This top-level networking certification will help him in continuing to provide our customers with an exceptional broadband experience including minimal network downtime which impacts us all ”

Brandon was hired as an installer trainee in the cable department in August 2006 and later transferred to the technology division He was previously a senior broadband services technician

Everett SenClair CISCO CYBEROPS ASSOCIATE CERTIFICATION

Network Operations

Administrator Everett SenClair earned the Cisco CyberOps Associate certification after successfully completing the required coursework and exams

This certification focuses on the day-to-day, tactical knowledge and skills that security operations center teams need to detect and respond to cybersecurity threats

“Everett is one of those employees that are truly difficult to come by During stressful situations such as network outages, Everett is able to maintain thought and composure allowing for quickest recovery times possible,” Conway Corp Network Engineering & Operations Manager Roy Grubb said “His aptitude and self-motivation for relative industry knowledge has put him into a lead role for deploying and maintaining Conway Corporation’s critical network infrastructure and is largely responsible for the stability and quality of networks that our customers are enjoying today ”

Everett was hired as a braodband services technician in December 2011 and was promoted to his current position in November 2017

Rachel Avra

SHRM CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION

Human Resources Specialist

Rachel Avra earned the Society for Human Resource Management – Certified Professional credential, making her a recognized expert and leader in the human resources field

Candidates who earn the certification must pass a four-hour, 134-question exam – 80 knowledge questions, 54 situational judgment questions and 24 field test items The SHRM-CP was developed in 2011 and is globally recognized as the standard in certification for human resource professionals

“By earning this prestigious certification, Rachel has demonstrated expertise in HR practices, policies and strategies,” Human Resources Director Jim Clark said “We are proud to have her as a member of our HR team and earning this certification signifies her dedication to the human resources profession and a commitment to provide support and guidance to Conway Corp’s most valuable asset – our employees

Rachel began her career at Conway Corp in 2021

SOCIETY OF CABLE TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERS

Connor Fason, Gage Hogan, Nathan Hudgens and Brett Taylor

SCTE BROADBAND PREMISES

The SCTE is a global leader for telecommunication education and training programs that meet the ever-changing cable industry Courses are developed in collaboration with the industry’s top technical professionals and cable operators The training is nationally recognized by the cable telecommunications industry and helps individuals interested in working for a cable provider

INSTALLER CERTIFICATION

Conway Corp Cable Department employees

Connor Fason, Gage Hogan, Nathan Hudgens and Brett Taylor earned the Broadband Premises

Installer Certification from the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers after completing required coursework and a final exam

The BPI certification is the foundation and one of three stand-alone Broadband Premises certifications that Conway Corp started using in 2015 as part of the core curriculum for all its cable department employees It is the first of six career path certifications in the department

Connor, Gage, Nathan and Brett are now certified to perform routine installations, disconnects, prewires, change of service and multiple dwelling unit wiring for cable television video, internet and voice residential customers

Connor and Nathan were both hired in 2023 as telecom installer trainees in the telecommunications department Gage started at Conway Corp in 2022 as a telecom construction trainee and was promoted to telecom construction technician 1 in 2023 Brett was hired in 2022 as a telecom installer trainee and promoted to telecom installer technician 1 in 2023

Jonathan Booth

SCTE BROADBAND TRANSPORT

SPECIALIST & FIBER

RESTORATION SPECIALIST

CERTIFICATIONS

Telecom Maintenance

Technician 4 Jonathan Booth earned the Broadband Transport Specialist and Fiber Restoration Certifications from the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers after completing required coursework and a final exam

These courses focus on optical signal distribution in the access and transport network architectures, while continuing to reach closer to a fiber deep deployment strategy in order to meet the customer’s bandwidth demands

Jonathan started in the telecommunications department in 2012 as a system technician He was promoted to telecom maintenance technician 3 in 2021 and to his current position in 2023

Jason Fleming

SCTE BROADBAND TRANSPORT SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION

Telecom Maintenance

Technician 4 Jason Fleming earned the Broadband Transport Specialist Certification from the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers after completing required coursework and a final exam

This certification focuses on optical signal distribution in the access and transport network architectures, while continuing to reach closer to a fiber deep deployment strategy in order to meet the customer’s bandwidth demands

Jason was hired as an installer trainee in 2012 He was previously a broadband distribution specialist and telecom maintenance technician 3 before being promoted to his current position in 2023

Lane McNew

SCTE BROADBAND FIBER

INSTALLER & BROADBAND

WIRELESS SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION

Telecom Installer Technician

3 Lane McNew earned the Broadband Fiber Installer Certification from the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers after completing required coursework and a final exam

This certification focuses on the benefits of working with fiber to the premise while learning to identify the installation equipment and customer premises equipment (CPE) needed to support FTTP/FTTx networks, along with preparing fiber, working with multiple wavelengths, contrasting optical measurements and troubleshooting FTTP/ FTTx service issues

Lane started at Conway Corp in 2020 as an installer trainee in the telecommunications department He was promoted to telecom installer in 2021 and to telecom installer technician 2 in 2022 He was promoted to his current position in 2023

Gage Hogan and Andrew Mitchell

SCTE COAXIAL CONSTRUCTION & OPTICAL FIBER CONSTRUCTION CERTIFICATIONS

Telecom Construction Technicians Gage Hogan and Andrew Mitchell earned the Coaxial Construction and Optical Fiber Construction Certifications from the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers after completing required coursework and a final exam

These certifications focus on recommended practices for construction and testing including system design, coaxial cable connection, powering, aerial and underground coaxial cable construction, activation and testing as well as relevant field safety topics

Gage and Andrew were hired in 2022 as telecom construction technician trainees and promoted to their current position in 2023

Jacob Mooningham

SCTE CERTIFIED WIRELESS NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR

Telecom Installer Technician

Jacob Mooningham earned the Certified Wireless Network

Administrator Certification from the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers after completing required course work and a final exam

This certification focuses on mastering the skills required to install, administer, configure and troubleshoot WLAN hardware peripherals and protocols

Jacob started at Conway Corp in 2022 as an installer trainee in the telecommunications department He was promoted to his current position in 2023

Matt Stephens

SCTE BROADBAND

PREMISES EXPERT

Telecom Installer Technician

3 Matt Stephens earned the Broadband Premises

Expert Certification from the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers after completing required coursework and a final exam

This certification is for experienced field technicians who are certified as broadband installers, broadband technicians, fiber installers and wireless specialists

Matt joined Conway Corp in 2020 as an installer trainee in the telecommunications department He was promoted to telecom installer technician in 2022 and to his most recent position in 2023

John Spotts

SCTE BROADBAND DISTRIBUTION SPECIALIST

Telecom Construction Technician

6 John Spotts earned the Broadband Distribution

Specialist Certification from the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers after completing required coursework and a final exam

This certification focuses on radio frequency (RF) distribution of signals in the access network as well as how signals operate in the access network and use system design calculations to verify proper signaling

John joined Conway Corp in 2018 as an installer trainee in the telecommunications department He was an installer and broadband premises technician prior to his most recent promotion in 2023

Connor Fason SCTE BROADBAND PREMISES TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

Telecom Installer Trainee Connor Fason earned the Broadband Premises Technician Certification from the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers after completing required coursework and a final exam

The BPT certification is the foundation and one of three stand-alone Broadband Premises certifications that Conway Corp started using in 2015 as part of the core curriculum for all its cable department employees It is the first of six career path certifications in the department

This certification is for experienced field technicians who will install and troubleshoot telecommunications services at the customer’s premises and has broadband fundamentals and troubleshooting knowledge

Connor started at Conway Corp in 2023

Andrew Nelson SCTE VOICE OVER IP SPECIALIST AND BROADBAND WIRELESS SPECIALIST CERTIFICATIONS

Telecom Business Class Services Technician 4 Andrew Nelson earned the Voice Over IP Specialist and Broadband Wireless Specialist certifications from the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers after completing required coursework and a final exam

The VoIP certification is the foundation of understanding the key elements and components of VoIP technology including the core fundamentals of installation, troubleshooting and network design while the Broadband Wireless Specialist certification focuses on wireless services including installation and troubleshooting networks

Andrew started at Conway Corp in 2014 as an installer trainee in the cable department He began focusing on business class services in 2021 and was promoted to his current position in 2023

Wesley Manion VOICE OVER INTERNET PROTOCOL SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION

Business Class Services

Technician 3 Wesley Manion earned the earned the Voice Over Internet Protocol Specialist certification from the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers after completing the required coursework and a final exam

The certification is the foundation of understanding the key elements and components of VoIP technology including the core fundamentals of installation, troubleshooting and network design

Wesley started with Conway Corp in 2014 as an installer trainee in the cable department and was promoted to his most recent position in 2022

ARKANSAS SECURITY ALARM ASSOCIATION CERTIFICATION

Telecom Installer Trainees Connor Fason, Nathan Hudgens and Chad Sayers earned their Arkansas Security Alarm Association certifications which ensures technicians have completed the necessary training required for security installers by the Arkansas State Police

“Completing this certification stands as a testament to Connor, Nathan and Chad’s dedication and commitment,” Telecommunication Systems Manager Tommy Nolen said “This new skill will be a great asset to Conway Corp and the entire Conway community ”

All three started their careers with the company in 2023

Connor Fason, Nathan Hudgens and Chad Sayers

EMPLOYEES PARTICIPATED

ONLINE COURSES/ TRAINING SESSIONS COMPLETED 12

Information Security on

Mobile Devices

2023 Common Threats

Fraud Awareness and Prevention

Social Media: Staying Secure in a Connected World

ACT 504 – Technology

Resources Policy

The Inside Man: Season 3

Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Training Videos:

• 2023 Danger Zone

• Spot the Bad Link

• Spot the Bad Attachment

• Hacking Emotions

NEW EMPLOYEES

Security Awareness

IN-PERSON WORKSHOPS CONDUCTED 36 ALL DEPARTMENTS

288

EMPLOYEES PARTICIPATED FROM ACROSS THE COMPANY

4,221 ALL DEPARTMENTS

ONLINE TRAINING SESSIONS COMPLETED THROUGH THE LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Safety Procedure Awareness

Hazard Communications

Ergonomics

Bloodborne Pathogens

Stress Management

OPERATIONS

Slings, Chains, Binders

Safe Driving

Outdoor Safety/Heat Stress

Slips, Trips, Falls

Work Zone Safety

Stop the Bleed

Chainsaw Safety

Competent Person Trench/ Excavation Safety

Competent Person Confined

Space Entry

Clow Fire Hydrant Training

APPA LINEWORKERS RODEO

IN

APRIL 2023, ELECTRIC

DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEES TRAVELED

TO KANSAS CITY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE 21ST ANNUAL AMERICAN PUBLIC POWER ASSOCIATION LINEWORKERS RODEO.

The rodeo is a unique opportunity for lineworkers to connect with their peers from across the country, compete for national recognition, attend training and practice essential skills in a safe environment

During the event, Conway Corp competed alongside more than 400 other public power electric lineworkers from across the nation to demonstrate how quickly and safely they could perform the duties required of a lineman

Apprentice Linemen Wesley Fason, Tylor McPherson, Kyle Troxler and Kolt Weatherley each competed in the apprentice division in

five events including four physical events and a written test

Journeymen Linemen Joe Bingham and Trey Brown, along with Journeyman Lineman/ Training Coordinator Nate Ball participated in the journeyman team division in five events including Hurtman Rescue, where participants completed a simulation of rescuing an injured co-worker

Journeyman Lineman Si Anthony, Senior Foreman Mark “Boog” Rowlett and Senior Lineman Scott Ussery attended the rodeo as training and support staff

SCTE CABLE GAMES

CONWAY CORP TECHNICIANS ARE CONSISTENTLY RANKED THE BEST OF THE BEST IN OUR REGION, AND THIS YEAR THEY PUT THEIR SKILLS TO THE TEST COMPETING IN MULTIPLE CABLE-TEC GAMES.

The games, presented by the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers, are typically held during chapter vendor shows or regional cable shows Participants compete in events that measure their technical abilities as well as demonstrate their knowledge from seven categories including cable splicing, meter reading, cable jeopardy, fiber splicing and drop connections

Conway Corp technicians showcased their skills in the area of fiber and coax testing and installation at regional games at the Mid-America Cable Show in Omaha as well as locally at the Razorback SCTE Show

Lead Telecom Maintenance Technician Brent Garren won first place overall at the Razorback SCTE Cable Games His win secured an invitation to compete against

technicians around the nation at the 2024 SCTE-EXPO in Atlanta, GA He also won two third-place medals, one second-place medal and three first-place medals

In addition to Brent’s overall win, three additional employees represented Conway Corp Lead Telecom Trouble Technician Brian Robinson placed third in Jeopardy Telecom Installer Technician 3 Lane McNew placed third in Meter Reading Telecom Trouble Technician 2 Jake Stewart competed in the games as well

SCTE is a non-profit professional association for the advancement of technology, standards and workforce education related to cable telecommunications engineering They are committed to higher training, education and accelerated networking opportunities across the industry

Left to Right: Senior Foreman Mark “Boog” Rowlett, Senior Foreman Scott Ussery, Apprentice Lineman Kolt Weatherley, Journeyman Lineman Joe Bingham, Apprentice Lineman Tylor McPherson, Journeyman Lineman/Training Coordinator Nate Ball, Journeyman Lineman Trey Brown, Journeyman Lineman Si Anthony, Apprentice Lineman Wesley Fason and Apprentice Lineman Kyle Troxler.

Brent Garren

Lane McNew

Brian Robinson

EDUCATION

e offer smart solutions for a smart city – and our investment in education is making sure it stays that way

We were proud to provide scholarships, grants and learning tools for the bright minds of our community in 2023

WATER SYSTEMS DESIGNER 2

Jeremy Koone

Scholarships

SUPPORTING EDUCATION

LOCAL EDUCATION HAS ALWAYS BEEN ONE OF OUR TOP PRIORITIES.

In fact, Conway Corp was founded in 1929 to help keep Hendrix and Central Baptist College in the city, and since then we have continued to support all levels of education in Conway From preschool to grad school, we provide world-class technology to our local schools and universities along with scholarships, grants, educational outreach and more

Since 2008, Conway Corp has given more than $600,000 in endowed scholarships to local students who attend the University of Central Arkansas, Central Baptist College and Hendrix

Conway Corp provides additional scholarships every year including 5 Sports scholarship awards to local student athletes for their performance on the field and in the classroom Conway Corp began its partnership with Wampus Cat athletics in 2001 and has awarded more than $35,000 in scholarships for Conway High student athletes over the past two decades

In 2023, Conway Corp awarded four local students $2,000 in scholarships for their athletic and academic achievements

Charlie Meek Mississippi State University

Charlie was named the Male Scholar Athlete of the Year Charlie was a multisport letter winner for the Wampus Cats: four years in cross country, three years in track and swim and one year in tennis He graduated with a 4 44 GPA and is currently studying mechanical engineering at Mississippi State University

Chloe Clardy Stanford University

Chloe was chosen by Conway High School coaches as the Ruth Doyle Award winner for outstanding female athlete of the year Chloe was named Most Valuable Player in the 2023 Arkansas Activities Association 6A State Championship game, leading the Lady Cats to the title She finished her career as the Lady Cats singleseason scoring record holder and the program’s all-time leading scoring She earned all-conference and all-state selections all four years of her career and was twice named Gatorade Player of the Year for Arkansas Chloe graduated with a 4 0 GPA and is continuing her basketball career at Stanford University

Ella Boudrie

University of Florida

Ella was named the Female Scholar Athlete of the Year Ella, a four-year letter winner in soccer, graduated with a 4 48 GPA and was salutatorian for the Conway High School Class of 2023 She is studying political science at the University of Florida

Will Childers

Ouachita Baptist University

Will Childers was chosen by Conway High School coaches as the Frank E Robins Award winner for outstanding male athlete of the year Will competed in soccer and was named Most Valuable Player in the 2022 and 2023 AAA 6A State Championship games, leading the Wampus Cats to back-to-back championships He graduated with a 3 76 GPA and is continuing his soccer career at Ouachita Baptist University

TEACHER OF THE YEAR

MICHELLE DISMUKE, A SECOND-GRADE TEACHER AT JIM STONE ELEMENTARY, WAS RECOGNIZED AS THE CONWAY PUBLIC SCHOOLS TEACHER OF THE YEAR IN AUGUST 2023.

Michelle was presented with the award and a $2,000 grant from Conway Corp at the Conway Public Schools Back-toSchool assembly

Michelle graduated from White Hall High School and earned a degree in Early Childhood Education with an ESL endorsement as well as a Master’s in Reading from the University of Central Arkansas

She began her career in Conway at Ida Burns Elementary where she was awarded Teacher of the Year in 2012 Since 2020, she has been teaching at Jim Stone Elementary

Michelle said her ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact on her students and their families with her positive attitude and loving spirit as a teacher

“Promoting education has been important to Conway Corp since the beginning of our company,” CEO Bret Carroll said “We are proud to invest in our students by supporting education in our community ”

A statement from her nomination summed it up, “Everyone knows that Michelle Dismuke cares ”

CHANNEL 5/585

IN 2001, CONWAY CORP BEGAN BROADCASTING TAPE-DELAYED WAMPUS CAT FOOTBALL AND BASKETBALL GAMES – MAKING THE 2023 SEASON OUR 23RD YEAR OF BROADCASTING WAMPUS CAT SPORTS.

Today, all football games and home basketball games are broadcast live via Channel 5/585 and streaming with Wampus Cats 2 Go

Conway Corp also continues to partner with Conway Public Schools and Conway High School Wampus Cat Athletic Interns to broadcast student-produced local sports

programming by providing equipment and hands-on training

In 2023, Conway Corp also produced and broadcast Conway High School’s graduation ceremony live for the fourth year in a row for students and family members who could not attend in person

2023 Football Stats:

97,983 AVERAGE VIEWERS PER GAME 7,699

YOUTUBE SEASON VIEWS

27,719

159,032

Conway Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Collum, Teacher of the Year Michelle Dismuke, Conway Public Schools Foundation President Rob O’Connor, Conway Corp CEO Bret Carroll and CPS Foundation Executive Director Marti Jones.

COMMUNITY

It’s what makes the work we do so important to our

It’s what makes us always want to do more Conway Corp employs nearly 300 local individuals who serve on local boards, participate with local charities, coach local youth sports teams and more

TELECOM TROUBLE TECHNICIAN 3

James Buggs

Community

IN 2023, CONWAY CORP EMPLOYEES COLLECTIVELY DONATED MORE THAN $25,000 TO THE UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS. EMPLOYEES ALSO HELD A TOY DRIVE FOR THE ANGEL TREE PROGRAM, AND INDIVIDUAL DEPARTMENTS SPONSORED ANGELS TO PROVIDE CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR LOCAL CHILDREN IN NEED.

EACH YEAR, CONWAY CORP EMPLOYEES CHOOSE A LOCAL CHARITY TO SUPPORT DURING THE COMPANY’S EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION EVENT. IN 2023, OUR TEAM COLLECTED ITEMS FOR BETHLEHEM HOUSE, AND CONWAY CORP EMPLOYEES DONATED THOUSANDS OF ITEMS TO THE NONPROFIT.

CONWAY CORP SUPPORTS LOCAL STUDENTS, TEACHERS, SCHOOLS AND SCHOLARSHIPS. THIS YEAR, OUR TEAM PARTICIPATED IN MULTIPLE READING DAYS AND GREETED THOUSANDS OF STUDENTS IN THE CAR LINE. OUR EMPLOYEES ALSO ENGAGED WITH STUDENTS AT ENRICHMENT DAYS AND ORGANIZED FACILITY FIELD TRIPS.

IN ADDITION, CONWAY CORP AND OUR EMPLOYEES PROVIDED SPONSORSHIPS, GRANTS, DONATIONS AND MORE TO LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS INCLUDING THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF FAULKNER COUNTY, CONWAY PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION, CONWAY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND MORE.

Remembering

Boyd Ballew

In February 2023, our Conway Corp family was devastated by the death of our friend and colleague Boyd (B J ) Ballew

B J had an immediate positive impact on Conway Corp and our community when he joined our engineering staff in August 1999 as a GIS Data Collection Technician He was an integral part of the development of the Geographic Information System (GIS) program and was promoted to GIS Technician 1 in 2013

During his 23-year career, B J led teams of collection technicians including full and part-time staff His field and office efforts on the utility systems support applications were instrumental and included real-time electric outage management, water leak detection, sewer system modeling and telecom digital mapping

B J was always willing to help his team, especially if it meant getting to work outside, which he loved His co-workers said he had a keen eye for things out in the field that needed to be added to GIS

B J was more than just a co-worker; he was a true friend He was a huge part of our Conway Corp family, and his passing deeply affects us all He will be greatly missed

Jonathan Snipes

We were profoundly saddened at the unexpected death of our friend and colleague Jonathan Snipes in September 2023

Jonathan joined Conway Corp in July 2022 as a Customer Care Specialist and was a valuable member of the team from the very beginning Jonathan was a friendly voice over the phone for our customers and was always ready to help those in the community as well as the company

Jonathan inspired his fellow co-workers, and his impact was felt across the company He was a great friend, a thoughtful colleague and, most importantly, a devoted father He was known for his love of music, his quick sense of humor and his boisterous laugh

Jonathan was a huge part of our Conway Corp family, and his passing deeply affects us all

COMMITTED to

LEADERSHIP

e take our responsibility to this company, and this community, seriously

The officers, board members and innovators who lead the way for our team help drive the reliability, revenues and results we all achieved together But the real game changer? Our employees and the next generation of leaders who always bring their passions, skills, experiences, connections and ideas to the table

MECHANIC

Shane Palmer

Board of Directors Executive Leadership

WASTEWATER

of Deferred Loss on Refunding ($100,594)

Nonoperating Income (Expense) ($2,427,557) Income Before Contributions in Aid of Construction and Interdepartmental Transfers $3,066,547