NATE Builds Long-Term Office Space in Watertown With REED Loan

The National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE) is committed to keeping its headquarters in Watertown, South Dakota, and recently built a brand-new office building to support its expanding staff. Funding for the project was made possible through a $500,000 loan from the Rural Electric Economic Development (REED) Fund.

“The REED Fund was definitely helpful when it came to financing,” says Michael Young, Secretary Treasurer and Executive Board Member for NATE. “This loan covered about half of the project, and we worked with the bank to fund the rest. We were able to double our office space because of REED funding.”  

The new office building reflects NATE’s commitment to staying in South Dakota while also serving as a national trade association for communication infrastructure professionals. 

The Association Had Grown Out of Its Rented Office Space

NATE, also known as the Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association, was founded in 1995 and has represented communications infrastructure companies and professionals for more than 30 years. During that time, it has expanded to more than 1,000 members in 49 out of 50 states – all except Hawaii, so far. As the association grew, so did its need for administrative support and other professionals to communicate with members and serve as a voice for the industry. NATE employees needed more space, so the organization looked toward long-term solutions.

The REED Fund allowed NATE to build a brand-new building with a reception area, meeting spaces, and 18 offices. It is much larger than the previous building, which had only eight offices.

“We had no problems applying for the REED loan,” says Young. “We did our due diligence ahead of time to make sure we qualified and that it made sense for us. The REED funding made a difference in the cost of the project because of its interest rates, and allowed us to act in the best interests of our members.”

Construction started last summer and wrapped up this year. The new building enables NATE to continue growing and to represent the communications infrastructure community. 

Most Trade Associations Have Moved to Washington, D.C. 

NATE is unique because it is committed to staying in Watertown, where it was founded and where a majority of its employees live. Even when the organization was looking to expand, it didn’t want to go beyond Watertown and uproot its staff – and potentially their families.

“Most trade associations have moved to Washington, D.C. to be closer to the legislative action,” says Young. “But we are committed to staying in Watertown. This building represents the roots we have put down here.”

NATE has advocates in Washington, D.C., who meet with elected officials and speak to the importance of communications infrastructure, but the organization's core will always be in Watertown.

NATE is within the Codington-Clark Electric Cooperative service area, which is a REED member.

“Codington-Clark Electric is committed to local businesses and the promotion of economic development in our area using our revolving loan fund,” says Dave Eide, General Manager of CCEC. “We’re extremely proud to partner with NATE.”

NATE Gives Communications Infrastructure a Unified Voice

Communication is more important than ever, with 98% of Americans owning a cell phone and 91% owning a smartphone. NATE works with legislative bodies to ensure the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure needs are met while also protecting the people who work on these essential projects.

“If one person has a problem, they won’t be heard, but when 1,000 professionals across 49 states speak up, they’re more likely to be listened to,” says Young. “We are a unified voice for the communications and tower industry.”

NATE works with legislative teams to support and improve safety standards while setting expectations for training across the country. It's involved in major infrastructure projects, such as 5G buildouts, and stays on top of emerging, complementary technologies like satellite communications.

“You might think that satellite technology is a competitor to what we do, but we’re actually working toward the same goal,” says Young. “We both want to bring better communication to remote areas.”

NATE will continue to support America’s telecommunications infrastructure and the people who build, erect, and service the essential structures that make staying connected possible. 

Learn More About REED Projects

REED works with communities across South Dakota and beyond to support economic development. Its loans cover a wide range of projects, from investments in ambulance services to support for entrepreneurs. Together, its communities continue to grow, providing work opportunities and amenities for residents.

Learn more about REED loans and see if your project qualifies. You can also reach out if you have any questions or simply want to discuss a project.