Joel Schlesinger © Postmedia Network Inc.
The importance of connectivity has never been more apparent than during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rogers customers’ internet usage has increased 49 per cent over the past year alone and the company added more than three times the additional capacity on its network this year compared to 2020 to accommodate this exponential growth online.
Rogers has played a key role in providing the networks and services that Canadians have relied on to work and play remotely, whether conducting video conferences or streaming their favourite online show, says Larry Goerzen, president of Alberta and Prairies region at Rogers.
“Connectivity can be taken for granted in normal times, but it has been really important in helping everyone get through the pandemic to keep the economy running.”
Today, the future is looking brighter, and all the more connected, as Rogers embarks on a multi-billion-dollar investment in broad-band infrastructure.
“The investment in both companies coming together will create 3,000 jobs in Western Canada at a really critical time,” says Goerzen, as Rogers continues to invest in 5G and bring this next-generation wireless connectivity to not only urban areas, but remote areas of Alberta.
Notably, Rogers aims to bring network connectivity to rural areas that previously had little to no access, including many Indigenous communities.
“Central to this is helping create Indigenous-led businesses and service providers providing sustainable solutions and economic growth.”
Rogers is further committed to helping underserved communities through other programs, Goerzen adds, such as Rogers Connected for Success, which offers affordable broadband to low-income Canadians, and another program providing free phones and data to Indigenous women in crisis at shelters.
The telecommunications company is also a leader in research, with programs such as the Rogers Internet of Things Chair at the University of Calgary, which explores the potential of new connected technologies in health care and workplace safety, to name a few.
That spirit of innovation drives Rogers, leading to the first and largest 5G network in Canada, allowing businesses and Albertans to do more during the pandemic and beyond, Goerzen says.
“All these efforts position Rogers and Alberta as global technology leaders, attracting investment here and creating a more sustainable economy for everyone.”
This story was created by Content Works, Postmedia’s commercial content division, on behalf of Calgary Economic Development.
Larry Goerzen, president of the Alberta and Prairies region at Rogers. By Wil Andruschak © Postmedia Network Inc.