
Imagine this: You’re joining a virtual non-profit board meeting, your teenager is submitting a college application online, and your partner is leading a video conference— all at the same time. In today’s digital-first world, connectivity is no longer a luxury but an essential part of our personal and professional lives. And behind this crucial connection is a network built with innovation, investment, and the contributions of incredible women shaping the future of connectivity.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, Cox Communications is proud to honor the women who have played a pivotal role in building and maintaining a powerful broadband network that serves communities across Santa Barbara. From field technicians to executive leaders—like Santa Barbara’s first female Market Vice President Kirsten McLaughlin—women have been instrumental in making sure Cox California’s network keeps up with the demands of modern life.
Investing in a faster network
Cox has long been a frontrunner in technological advancements providing customers with affordable, state-of-the art services. Cox Mobile’s unlimited data plan, for example, means internet customers can stay connected at home and on the go. And major infrastructure investments in broadband mean customers in all our communities have access to fast, reliable internet when they need it most. Thanks to multi-GIG speeds delivered with fiber, customers enjoy flexibility and don’t have to worry about sudden buffering in the middle of a Women’s NCAA March Madness nailbiter.
Reaching roughly 100,000 homes across Santa Barbara, Cox customers stay connected no matter what they’re doing and even if they’re doing it at the same time: Whether it’s helping kids with homework, hopping on a video call, or kicking back with a favorite show, Cox makes sure there’s enough bandwidth for everyone.
And Cox is leading the charge in making internet connectivity faster and more accessible than ever with DOCSIS 4.0, the next generation of broadband technology. Like expanding a road from two lanes to eight, DOCSIS 4.0 is the future and will make up 70% of nodes across the country within 10 years. As fast and smart as broadband is now, this rollout means smoother video calls, lag-free gaming, and the ability to support multiple high-demand devices in your home without any traffic jams (see: eight lanes!).
Powering education and the work-from-home revolution
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a shift that was already well underway, and the last few years have reshaped the way families work and play.
For parents, students, and educators, a strong internet connection isn’t a novelty, it’s a requirement. Hybrid learning, digital classrooms, and online collaboration have become the norm, and Cox is committed to supporting future generations of leaders by bridging the digital divide. Programs like Connect2Compete provide affordable high-speed internet to families in need and ensure that every child can learn and grow.
For professionals and small business owners, hybrid work and work from home are more sustainable. Thanks to gig speeds, Panoramic WiFi, and built-in security, with enterprise-level reliability, we are more connected than ever before.
Leadership That Drives Change
Women leaders at Cox in Santa Barbara are driving innovation and shaping the future of broadband connectivity.
“Santa Barbara’s vibrant communities and growing ecosystem depend on fast, reliable connectivity,” said McLaughlin. “We’re deeply committed to supporting the unique needs of our region, from local businesses to students and families. By continuing to innovate and invest in cutting-edge technology, we’re helping ensure that Santa Barbara stays connected, resilient, and ready to meet the challenges of the digital age.”
Cox Communications isn’t just investing in a faster network—it’s investing in people. From the women leading innovation at Cox to the millions of women and families depending on broadband to make all things possible, Cox is committed to a future where connectivity is limitless.



