Allen Hoopes Concludes 23-Year Tenure as NCSC Director

NCSC District 4 Director Allen Hoopes will retire from the board in June, concluding a remarkable 23-year tenure marked by vision, perseverance and a deep commitment to rural telecommunications.

Humble Beginnings

Hoopes’ journey in telecommunications began in the 1970s at his family’s company, Silver Star Communications. As a young teenager, he spent summers installing underground cable and conduit—an early hands-on experience that laid the foundation for a lifelong career. After earning a Bachelor of Science in finance, marketing and operations from Brigham Young University, along with additional coursework in electrical engineering, he returned to Silver Star. Starting out as assistant plant manager in 1986, he rose through the ranks to become vice president, then president and, finally, his current position as chairman and CEO in 2012.

“It has been incredibly rewarding to see the difference that excellent broadband services make in our communities,” Hoopes said. “Watching the next generation return home to start businesses, work and raise families because of broadband availability has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my career.” 

Hoopes joined the then-RTFC Board of Directors in 2002. Throughout his years of service, Hoopes helped guide RTFC, then NCSC through periods of significant change and growth. He cites the merger of RTFC and NCSC as one of the most notable achievements during that time—an initiative that streamlined operations and enhanced the organization’s ability to serve its members. 

“This action greatly reduced overhead costs per member for both organizations and created a more scalable lending platform for telecom and electric members,” Hoopes said. “By taking the time to truly understand our members and their unique needs, NCSC has built strong relationships and maintained a lending model that is flexible, empathetic and effective.” 

Looking to the Future

As he prepares to pass the torch, Hoopes looks ahead with optimism for the future of NCSC and the industries it champions.

“I am excited about the future of NCSC with both telecom and electric industries unified under one roof,” he said. “This combination creates a stronger, more resilient lender that can continue to meet the evolving needs of rural America. There is extraordinary talent and a strong work ethic in rural communities, and I’m confident that NCSC will continue to play a vital role in supporting their growth and success.” 

NCSC’s ongoing growth and development mirrors the forward momentum seen across rural telecommunications. Hoopes reflected on the industry's fast-paced evolution, particularly the growing role of artificial intelligence in driving future developments.

“As AI adoption increases, speed and capacity demands will skyrocket,” Hoopes said. “Fiber-based broadband will be crucial because of its flexibility, scalability and ability to handle the massive data requirements of the future. Our industry is at a pivotal moment that will fundamentally change how society communicates, works and learns—and fiber connectivity will be the foundation of that transformation.” 

A Lasting Legacy

From meaningful achievements to technological developments, being a good leader means having a positive impact on others. Hoopes hopes his legacy as a leader in the telecom industry reflects a time of meaningful difference for not only Silver Star, its employees and the communities it serves, but also for organizations like NCSC. 

“I hope people will think of my legacy as one of innovation, persistence and a strong focus on community and employees,” he said. “I am deeply grateful for the pioneers who came before me and those who will lead the industry into the future. Their influence has been instrumental in my success, and I am thankful for all who have supported me along the way.”