FCC Advances Direct-to-Device Spectrum and USF Overhaul at August Meeting

At its Aug. 6 open meeting, the FCC adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking exploring more than 200 megahertz of unlicensed spectrum for devices to communicate directly with satellites—dropping the 900 MHz band from the proposal—alongside a companion NPRM to modernize the nearly $9-billion-a-year Universal Service Fund with tighter oversight of USAC. Both proceedings shape the ground member companies build on: broader direct-to-device rules pull satellite and terrestrial networks closer together, while USF restructuring steers the federal dollars behind rural deployment. The comment windows are the next opening for industry input.

DISH Claims Deadline Hits Today as FCC Limits Who Can Tap the $2.4B Trust

Non-government creditors face a 5 p.m. Central deadline today to file proofs of claim in the Dish Wireless Chapter 11 case, where more than 170 companies are chasing billions in unpaid lease and contract obligations. Responding to fears the bankruptcy could drain the FCC-ordered $2.4 billion escrow, the Commission issued an order confirming that only the infrastructure companies and contractors Dish owes can draw on the trust, with a hearing on the escrow set for Aug. 18. Any member company still owed money on Dish Wireless work should confirm its claim is filed before the window closes—the trust is the main backstop standing between contractors and unpaid invoices.

NATE STAR Initiative Enrollment Is Open—Deadline Aug. 31

Enrollment is open for the 2026–2027 NATE STAR (Safety, Training, Accountability and Reliability) Initiative, and every company—returning or first-time—must submit an application by Aug. 31 to earn or keep its recognition. The program is NATE's framework for documenting a company's commitment to safety, training and accountability across tower construction, service and maintenance. Renewing before the deadline keeps a company's STAR standing current through the back half of the construction season, when carriers and turf vendors weigh safety credentials most heavily. 

NATE Encourages Members to Join OSHA Safe + Sound Week, Aug. 10–16

NATE is urging member companies to take part in OSHA's Safe + Sound Week, Aug. 10–16, a nationwide initiative recognizing employers with strong safety and health programs. A single activity counts—a stand-down, toolbox talk, rescue drill, heat-illness session or JHA workshop—whether crews are on towers, rooftops, fiber, small cells or in-building systems. Registering with OSHA earns official recognition and gives companies a visible way to reinforce safety culture with their carrier customers.

Save the Date: 6th Annual Women's Leadership Summit, Sept. 17

NATE's 6th Annual Women's Leadership Summit is set for Thursday, Sept. 17, in Indianapolis, bringing together women across the communications infrastructure workforce for leadership, networking and career-development programming. With the sector facing a widening workforce gap, developing and retaining talent has become a competitive necessity—the summit gives member companies a concrete touchpoint to invest in their teams.

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