Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s broadband arm, which completed a 3,600-mile fiber build within four years, recently captured national awards for not only being the fastest internet service provider around but for thoroughly supporting its subscribers.
Broadbandnow.com bestowed OEC Fiber with a 2024 Digital Inclusion Award for Digital Literacy last month. The independent broadband research group earlier this summer ranked the Norman-based co-op subsidiary as fifth nationwide in Fastest Real-World Speed category for regional ISPs.
OEC Fiber is closing in on 40,000 subscribers since its first connections in February 2019 across parts of seven central Oklahoma counties, where large for-profit competitors placed stakes.
“OEC Fiber’s success further proves that America’s cooperatives are best positioned to provide high-speed internet to rural America,” NRECA Broadband Director Cliff Johnson said.
“Not only do they provide superior service at an affordable cost, but they make significant investments in the local communities they serve—ensuring everyone is connected and no one is left behind.”
OEC Fiber President David Goodspeed attributed the national recognition to the co-op’s teamwork and care for their customers at the end of the line.
“We don’t work in silos,” he said. “It’s not about what individual teams want to do. We are all pulling in the same direction. Our leaders and their teams all work toward a common goal: Providing the best service possible to our subscribers.”
That comprehensive service, support and education at no cost to the subscriber distinguished OEC Fiber, according to Broadband.now.
“This proactive strategy, combined with their locally available support team, ensures that subscribers have immediate access to help while also empowering them with self-service options,” the organization said in its recognition of OEC Fiber.
“By aligning their marketing and support teams under the same management, OEC Fiber maintains consistent communication and ensures that their marketing materials accurately reflect the needs and experiences of their subscribers, further enhancing the overall customer experience.”
Cathy Cash is a staff writer for NRECA.