Programs with Iowa’s Independent Telecommunications Companies support rural students pursuing technology and STEM education
Aureon, a trusted provider of Webster-Calhoun Cooperative Telephone Association for connectivity and network solutions, recently awarded $12,000 in STEM scholarships to nine Iowa high school students through its 2026 Scholarship Programs, supporting their pursuit of technology and STEM education at Iowa colleges, universities and trade schools.
Through annual scholarships, Aureon continues to invest in Iowa’s next generation of leaders by supporting students through two dedicated opportunities: the Aureon ITC Scholarship Program, which supports students from Iowa Independent Telecommunications Company (ITC)-served communities pursuing STEM-related fields, and the Aureon Scholarship for Technology Students, which assists students planning to pursue technology-focused education at Iowa colleges, universities, or trade schools.
“We are excited about this scholarship award for Tyler. Iowa is unique—our state has more independent, community-based internet providers than any other state in the nation,” noted Marcie Boerner, CEO/GM of Webster-Calhoun Cooperative Telephone Association, “which makes this award truly special.”
The recipients of the 2026 Aureon ITC Scholarship Program are:
- Christopher Gebhardt, Guttenberg – $3,000 scholarship, attending Iowa State University (Computer Engineering)
- Kayley Dirks, Atkins – $2,000 scholarship, attending Iowa State University (Business Analytics)
- Micah Loutsch, Le Mars – $2,000 scholarship, attending Northwestern College (Cybersecurity)
- Tyler Wanat, Gowrie – $1,000 scholarship, attending Iowa Central Community College (Accounting)
- Miley Trumm, Cascade – $1,000 scholarship, attending the University of Northern Iowa (Business Analytics & Marketing)
- Aiden Cooper, Cantril – $1,000 scholarship, attending Indian Hills Community College (Software Development)
The recipients of the 2026 Aureon Scholarship for Technology Students are:
- Mason Carver, Marcus – $1,000 scholarship, attending DMACC (Electric Utility Technology)
- Cameron Renes, Des Moines – $500 scholarship, attending Central College (Computer Science)
- Summer Minor, Indianola – $500 scholarship, attending Simpson College (Computer Science Information Systems)
“Every year, we see Iowa students whose talent and drive will power the state’s technology future,” said George O’Neal, CEO of Aureon. “By investing in their STEM education today, we’re strengthening the communities and businesses we serve across Iowa.”
Applications for Aureon’s next scholarship cycle will open in December, continuing the company’s long-standing commitment to supporting Iowa students pursuing STEM and technology education pathways. Since launching its scholarship efforts, Aureon has remained dedicated to strengthening Iowa communities by helping students access educational opportunities that prepare them for future success.
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Aureon is a leading technology solutions provider helping organizations connect, collaborate, and grow. The company delivers connectivity, cloud, data center, managed IT, consulting, and contact center services that simplify technology and strengthen business performance. Backed by more than 40 years of experience and a dedicated Iowa-based support team, Aureon combines advanced solutions with exceptional service. From its headquarters in West Des Moines, the company empowers clients across the Midwest and nationwide through reliability, innovation, and a lasting commitment to community.
Webster-Calhoun Cooperative Telephone Association provides Landline Telephone, Digital TV and Internet service to 21 rural communities on a Fiber driven network just outside the Fort Dodge, Iowa area: Pilot Mound, Boxholm, Lanyon, Paton, Churdan, Farnhamville, Gowrie, Somers, Moorland, Knierim, Barnum, Clare, Thor, Badger, Vincent, Duncombe, in the towns of Lohrville, Manson, Rockwell City and Lake City and rural Fort Dodge. www.wccta.com
WCCTA is Gigabit Certified and designated a Smart Rural Community by NTCA: the Rural Broadband Association.
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