COVINGTON, Ky., August 5, 2025 – STEP, Where Innovation Meets Execution, today announced that, alongside industry-leading partners T‑Mobile, Ericsson, Extreme Networks, Fortinet, and Verkada, it will serve as the Official 5G/Private Cellular & Wi‑Fi Provider for the 2025 Kentucky Bourbon Festival in Bardstown, taking place September 5–7, 2025.
STEP’s trademark CoW (Cell-on-Wheels) – a fully mobile, hybrid connectivity platform – will deliver high-performance wireless coverage across the entire festival footprint. This includes:
- Reliable 5G and private cellular, powered by Ericsson’s core network expertise
- Secure wired-to-wireless integration, architected by Extreme Networks
- Nationwide 5G failover and un‑carrier reach, enabled by T‑Mobile
- Robust network observability and zero‑trust security, supported by Verkada
Festivalgoers, vendors, media teams, and distillers will enjoy seamless connectivity in all zones: tasting pavilions, food courts, experiential hubs, media centers, and outdoor activation areas. STEP’s network will also power secure point-of-sale systems, enabling safe, uninterrupted transactions throughout the event.
"The Kentucky Bourbon Festival is a world-class event that demands a world-class network,” said Ed Walton, CEO of STEP. “With support from industry leaders like T-Mobile, Ericsson, Extreme, and Verkada, we're bringing best-in-class connectivity, security, and innovation to every part of the festival grounds. From vendors to VIPs, everyone will be able to connect through a STEP-powered wireless experience.”
Randy Prasse, President and COO of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, added:
"With more than 60 distilleries and thousands of attendees, connectivity isn’t just a luxury — it’s hypercritical. STEP’s hybrid infrastructure will help ensure this year’s event runs seamlessly, from mobile check-in to livestreams and everything in between.”
Event Highlights:
- 60+ distilleries offering tastings and demos
- New Bourbon Education Zone, featuring immersive AR/VR experiences
- Media & Livestream Pavilion, showcasing masterclasses and live programming
- Expected attendance: 50,000+ bourbon fans over three days
Ticketing Info:
VIP passes have sold out. General Admission & Sunday passes are still available atkybourbonfestival.com.
About STEP
STEP is a national leader in hybrid network design and integration, combining secure 5G, private cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity, and managed IT services. Founded in 2014 and based in Covington, KY, STEP’s award-winning solutions power connectivity for enterprise, healthcare, education, hospitality, and more. Learn more at stepcg.com.
Partner Highlights:
- T‑Mobile – America’s Un‑carrier, delivering fast nationwide 5G.
- Ericsson – Global pioneer in mobile core and private network technology.
- Extreme Networks – Leader in cloud-managed enterprise networking.
- Fortinet – Global leader in cybersecurity solutions, delivering intelligent, end-to-end security across the network.
- Verkada – Provider of integrated physical security and network observability.
Media Contacts:
STEP Media Inquiries
Katie Johnson – 513‑795‑6000 ext. 3117 | kjohnson@stepcg.com
