Karen Jackson-Furman named WK&T CEO

WK&T Telecommunications Cooperative Inc. announced today that Trevor Bonnstetter will be stepping down as CEO at the end of this year, with Karen Jackson-Furman set to assume the CEO role on January 1, 2025.

During his tenure at WK&T, Bonnstetter played a pivotal role in driving the company’s growth, particularly in expanding broadband and fiber services to unserved and underserved rural communities.

“It has been an honor to serve the members of WK&T throughout my career, “Bonnstetter said. “I am confident that Karen’s leadership, backed by her extensive industry experience and deep understanding of our company, will guide WK&T to even greater success.”

Jackson-Furman brings 31 years of experience in telecommunication cooperatives to her new role as CEO, including nine years at WK&T. She joined as the Chief Information Officer in 2016, later transitioning to the Chief Financial Officer. In 2018, she was named Chief Operating Officer where she oversaw numerous strategic operational initiatives.

“I am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to dedicate my career to the rural telecommunications industry,” Jackson-Furman said. “Serving our members every day to deliver exceptional broadband connectivity to improve quality of life, bring opportunity, and keep loved ones connected is very rewarding. This industry is filled with incredible people, both within the states we serve and across the nation. I’m especially thankful to be a part of the outstanding team at WK&T.”

As CEO, Jackson-Furman plans to build on WK&T’s strong foundation of growth and innovation, while keeping customer service as the focal point. Her immediate priorities include seeking additional strategic partnerships and pursuing additional state and federal grant opportunities to expand broadband access to unserved and underserved communities in Kentucky, Tennessee and southern Illinois.

“Our top priority is delivering an exceptional customer experience,” she added. “At WK&T, we are committed to helping our members Live Life Connected.”

WK&T is a communications cooperative serving West Kentucky, Northwest Tennessee and Southern Illinois with more than 24,000 network connections. The company is an equal opportunity employer and provider dedicated to using technology to keep its members connected through high-speed internet, state-of-the-art security, local and long-distance voice service and digital television.