Broadband Nation Expo 2024: Full Schedule

Alejandro Piñero is Group Director for Broadband and Streaming at Questex family. As part of this role, Alejandro oversees the strategic direction and product strategy for portfolios such as Broadband Nation and StreamTV. Prior to joining Questex, Alejandro was Senior Research Manager... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 1:01pm - 1:05pm EDT
Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Pre-Event Workshop

1:05pm EDT

Keynote - American Broadband State of Play

Wednesday October 9, 2024 1:05pm - 1:25pm EDT

Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

How does broadband in the United States stack up against international standards.
Tackling connectivity non-spots.
Update on funding status and available mechanisms.

Speakers

Blair Levin

Nonresident Senior Fellow, The Brookings Institution

Blair Levin is a nonresident senior fellow at Brookings Metro. Levin serves as a policy analyst with New Street Research, an equity research firm focused on telecommunications and technology. Levin has also been involved in a number efforts to broaden broadband’s reach and effectiveness... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 1:05pm - 1:25pm EDT
Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Pre-Event Workshop

Qtag featuredsessions

1:25pm EDT

Panel - Picking up the Tab - Funding Beyond BEAD

Wednesday October 9, 2024 1:25pm - 2:00pm EDT

Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Understanding public and private funding mechanisms.
The role of private equity and private sector partners in continuing the roll-out of broadband.
Measuring risk and reward in broadband investment.

Moderators

David Strauss

Principal, Broadband Success Partners

Mr. Strauss is the co-founder of Broadband Success Partners – the leading digital infrastructure M&A technical advisor and due diligence specialist. The firm has completed over 90 technical due diligence engagements for over 60 clients including Antin, Brookfield, CBRE, DigitalBridge... Read More →

Speakers

Rachelle Medalia

Manager of Government Relations, CostQuest

Rachelle is the Manager of Government Relations at CostQuest. She manages our State Affairs and business development efforts related to state government contracting and supports our Federal Affairs efforts by engaging with congressional delegations in DC from all states and territories... Read More →

Jason Hill

Global Head of Digital Infrastructure, Houlihan Lokey

Mr. Hill is Co-Head of Houlihan Lokey’s U.S. Technology Group and Global Head of Digital Infrastructure. He is based in the firm’s Boston office.Previously, Mr. Hill was a Managing Partner at MVP Capital, an independent advisory firm that provides a range of advisory services... Read More →

Jennifer Fritzsche

Managing Director - Communications Services & Digital Infrastructure, Greenhill & Co

Ms. Fritzsche joined Greenhill in 2021. Prior to joining Greenhill, Jennifer was CFO, Manager & Board Member of Canopy Spectrum, a company focused on the wireless spectrum space. Prior to that, Jennifer was as Managing Director and Senior Equity Analyst at Wells Fargo Securities for... Read More →

Fletcher Kittredge

Chief Strategy Officer, GWI

Tasha Boerner

Assemblymember, California State Assembly 77th District

Wednesday October 9, 2024 1:25pm - 2:00pm EDT
Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Pre-Event Workshop

Qtag featuredsessions

2:00pm EDT

Keynote - The Economics of Access: Balancing Trade-offs in Broadband Subsidies

Wednesday October 9, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT

Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Speakers

Scott Wallsten

President & Senior Fellow, Technology Policy Institute

Scott Wallsten is President and Senior Fellow at the Technology Policy Institute and also a senior fellow at the Georgetown Center for Business and Public Policy. He is an economist with expertise in industrial organization and public policy, and his research focuses on competition... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Pre-Event Workshop

2:20pm EDT

Panel - The Impact of BEAD requirements on State Plans, from Workforce to Deployment

Wednesday October 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:00pm EDT

Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Identifying the states’ needs for workforce expansion in the wake of increased broadband investment.
Fair labor, diversity and an creating a vibrant workforce
Cybersecurity, Build America, Buy American and Financial Security

Moderators

Melissa Newman

Senior Vice President, Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA)

Melissa Newman has over 20 years of experience as a seasoned Executive in telecommunications companies with expertise in government affairs, public relations and legal. Recently, Melissa worked at Transit Wireless as Vice President of External Affairs and Senior Legal Counsel in New... Read More →

Speakers

Rick Cimerman

Vice President, External and State Affairs Lead, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association

Rick is Vice President, External and State Affairs Lead for NCTA – The Internet & Television Association. He leads a team responsible for engagement with state broadband officials, state cable associations, state and local intergovernmental groups, third parties and strategic partners... Read More →

Taylre Beaty

State Broadband Director, Tennessee Economic and Community Development (TNECD)

Taylre Beaty started as the State Broadband Director at Tennessee Economic and Community Development (TNECD) in September 2021. Through her role at TNECD, Taylre is leading an effort to invest and administer over $1.45B in federally funded broadband projects across the state of Tennessee... Read More →

Brian Thorn

Director of Broadband Strategy, Rhode Island Commerce Corporation

Patrick Haggerty

Director, Nebraska Broadband Office

Patrick Haggerty was recently confirmed by Governor Jim Pillen to the executive cabinet position of Nebraska State Broadband Director. He leads the Nebraska Broadband Office (NBO) by coordinating efforts across state and federal programs to ensure it is an innovative office capable... Read More →

Marcus Chambers

Maryland State Broadband Lead for Maryland, Network Telecom Technician, CWA

With 23 years of experience in network telecommunications, Marcus Chambers has seen it all—from the early days of high-speed DSL to the cutting-edge advancements of fiber optic technology. His career began in the high-tech DSL department, and he has remained with his company through... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:00pm EDT
Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Pre-Event Workshop

Qtag featuredsessions

3:00pm EDT

Networking Break

Wednesday October 9, 2024 3:00pm - 3:30pm EDT

Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Wednesday October 9, 2024 3:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Networking

3:30pm EDT

Keynote - BEAD Application Strategies for Regional Players

Wednesday October 9, 2024 3:30pm - 3:50pm EDT

Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Funding application strategies for regional and rural ISPs and CSPs
Has BEAD created an uneven competitive playing field in terms of funding access?
What organizational challenges do smaller companies face in applying for funding?

Speakers

Bobbie Gilbert

SVP of Public Affairs, Ripple Fiber

As Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at Ripple Fiber, Bobbie Gilbert has over 17 years of experience in legislative processes and government relations. Her insightful guidance and extensive knowledge of fiber broadband economics position her as a key player in market expansion... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 3:30pm - 3:50pm EDT
Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Pre-Event Workshop

3:50pm EDT

Keynote - From Investment to Impact: Maximizing State Value through Federal Broadband Grants

Wednesday October 9, 2024 3:50pm - 4:10pm EDT

Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

The importance of the strategic allocation of the BTOP federal broadband grant that maximized coverage and accessibility across the state of Maryland
Addressing strategies for ensuring the long-term sustainability of broadband infrastructure beyond initial grant funding
Explore the concept of future-proofing broadband infrastructure to accommodate diverse stakeholders, technological advancements and funding challenges

Speakers

Eric Bathras

CTO, Infrastructure, Maryland Department of Information Technology (DoIT)

Wednesday October 9, 2024 3:50pm - 4:10pm EDT
Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Pre-Event Workshop

4:10pm EDT

Panel - From the Plan to the Ground - Planning, Engineering and Project Planning

Wednesday October 9, 2024 4:10pm - 4:40pm EDT

Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Construction Costs, Considerations & Strategies.
Workforce planning and deployment.
Engineering capabilities.
Urban and rural construction challenges.

Moderators

Adrienne Ramsay

Founder, Delphi Strategies

Adrienne Ramsay is the founder of Delphi Strategies and has a proven track record in public policy, government service, and high-technology start-ups. Her career spans leadership roles in government, aerospace and defense firms, and technology start-ups. She has established strong... Read More →

Speakers

Steve Kristan

Director of Market Development - Ohio, Lumos Fiber

Steven Greene

Technical Program Manager, Utah Broadband Center

Steven Greene has over 30 years of telecommunications industry experience. He has worked with every kind of technology used in broadband and at all levels of deployment from construction to project management. He has worked in some of the most challenging environments known, from... Read More →

Bob Grant

Principal Product Manager, iconectiv

Bob Grant, Principal Product Manager at iconectiv, is responsible for setting the strategy, roadmap and feature definition for TruOps TRA and TruReach Certify. His role entails working collaboratively across all functions within the organization to ensure strategic and tactical alignment... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 4:10pm - 4:40pm EDT
Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Pre-Event Workshop

4:40pm EDT

BEAD Without Equity is BAD: Using Data to Maximize Funding Available for Digital Equity

Wednesday October 9, 2024 4:40pm - 5:00pm EDT

Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Since the BEAD program launched, the program has rightly prioritized connecting all the remaining un- and under-served with reliable, high speed broadband. But the intention of the program has always been for BEAD funding to be available not just to sustainably close the availability gap in the long-term, but to also address barriers to broadband adoption. This presentation will demonstrate that, even though BEAD funding is not limitless, smart policy choices and the right mix of technologies deployed will allow every state to reserve significant BEAD funding for much-needed digital equity programs. With additional digital equity funding at their disposal, state broadband offices can ensure that this once-in-a-generation Internet for All program is truly closing the digital divide, not building a road to nowhere.

Speakers

Alex Jeffery

Senior Public Policy Manager, Vernonburg Group

Alex serves as Senior Public Policy Manager at Vernonburg Group. At Vernonburg Group, Alex develops policy papers and reports for clients (most recently Vernonburg Group’s report “Achieving Internet for All: Socioeconomics and Fixed Broadband in the United States”), leads stakeholder engagement efforts around broadband policy issues on behalf of clients, crafts advocacy strategies, and supports Vernonburg Group’s business development activities.Prior to joining Vernonburg Group, Alex had years of experience advocating specifically on technology and telecommunications policy issues. While at the Glen Ec... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 4:40pm - 5:00pm EDT
Broadband Nation Theater - Expo Hall

Pre-Event Workshop

5:00pm EDT

Expo Floor Open

Wednesday October 9, 2024 5:00pm - 6:30pm EDT

Prince George A - Expo Hall

Wednesday October 9, 2024 5:00pm - 6:30pm EDT
Prince George A - Expo Hall

5:00pm EDT

Exhibition Kick-Off Party - Sponsored by AT&T

Wednesday October 9, 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm EDT

Prince George A - Expo Hall

Wednesday October 9, 2024 5:00pm - 7:00pm EDT
Prince George A - Expo Hall

Networking

8:00am EDT

Registration

Thursday October 10, 2024 8:00am - 5:30pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson Lobby

Thursday October 10, 2024 8:00am - 5:30pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson Lobby

Registration & Badge Pickup

8:00am EDT

Expo Floor Open

Thursday October 10, 2024 8:00am - 7:00pm EDT

Prince George A - Expo Hall

Thursday October 10, 2024 8:00am - 7:00pm EDT
Prince George A - Expo Hall

8:30am EDT

Chairperson’s Welcome

Thursday October 10, 2024 8:30am - 8:35am EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Speakers

Alejandro Piñero

Group Director, Broadband, Questex

Thursday October 10, 2024 8:30am - 8:35am EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

8:35am EDT

Opening Keynote by TIA

Thursday October 10, 2024 8:35am - 8:55am EDT

Speakers

Dave Stehlin

Chief Executive Officer, Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA)

Thursday October 10, 2024 8:35am - 8:55am EDT

General Session

8:55am EDT

Keynote - Broadband Industry Update - Regulatory, Funding and Deployment State of Play

Thursday October 10, 2024 8:55am - 9:20am EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Speakers

Will Arbuckle

Senior Policy Advisor, NTIA

Thursday October 10, 2024 8:55am - 9:20am EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

General Session

9:20am EDT

State Roundtable - Funding Update & Roll-Out Plans and Strategy

Thursday October 10, 2024 9:20am - 10:00am EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Discussing state broadband plans.
Deployment challenges and roadblocks.
Next steps in the road to bridging the digital divide.

Moderators

Jade Piros de Carvalho

Vice President of Broadband Advocacy and Partnerships, Bonfire Infrastructure Group

Speakers

Joshua Breitbart

Senior Vice President, ConnectALL Office, Empire State Development

Joshua Breitbart is the Senior Vice President, ConnectALL, at Empire State Development. In that role, he serves as Director of the Division of Broadband Access, overseeing the statewide digital equity plan and administering over $1 billion in public investments across the state. Joshua... Read More →

Michael Baldino

Director & General Counsel, Massachusetts Broadband Institute

Michael Baldino was named Director and General Counsel of the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) at the Mass Tech Collaborative in January 2019.  Michael comes to MBI with a wealth of public sector policy experience. He served in Mass Tech’s Legal Department for over 23... Read More →

Greg Bathrick

Area Vice President, Commercial Development, Calix

With over 25 years in the broadband industry, Greg Bathrick joined Calix in 2014 and is currently the Area Vice President of Broadband Development. He assists broadband service providers and rural communities in finding government grants and private equity. He earned his B.S. in Mechanical... Read More →

Brian Newby

State Broadband Program Director, North Dakota Information Technology (NDIT)

Brian Newby, broadband program director for the state of North Dakota, joined the state's broadband office as it was in the process of being created in early 2023. Since then, his primary focus has been on developing the state's Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. North Dakota is to receive $130.16 million through BEAD and, as of this writing, the state is awaiting NT... Read More →

Brian Mitchell

Director of the Office of Science, Innovation and Technology (OSIT), State of Nevada Broadband Office

Brian Mitchell serves as the Director of the Office of Science, Innovation and Technology (OSIT), the State of Nevada's Broadband Office, and oversees the planning, mapping and procurement of broadband infrastructure. Brian leads the State's High Speed Nevada Initiative, a $500 million... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 9:20am - 10:00am EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

General Session

Qtag featuredsessions

10:00am EDT

Keynote by CommScope

Thursday October 10, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Speakers

John Chamberlain

VP, Technology CCS, CommScope

John Chamberlain is the Vice President of Technology for CommScopes CCS segment and is the technology lead for passive Fiber Cable, Connectivity, Data Center and Enterprise businesses.Mr. Chamberlain has previously served at CommScope in CTO, R&D, Product Line Management and Manufacturing... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

General Session

10:20am EDT

Networking Break

Thursday October 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am EDT

Prince George A - Expo Hall

Thursday October 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am EDT
Prince George A - Expo Hall

Networking

10:40am EDT

Broadband Nation Start-Up Pitch Contest

Thursday October 10, 2024 10:40am - 11:20am EDT

Spotlight Stage - Expo Hall

Join us for the Broadband Nation Start-Up Pitch Contest, where innovative ideas meet the future of connectivity! This exciting event brings together entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and industry experts to showcase groundbreaking solutions aimed at enhancing broadband access and technology.

October 10^th
10:40am -10:55am ARPU, Take Rates, & Net Adds — How AI Software is Boosting Broadband Sales
Join us for a lightning-round introduction to the AI technology that has redefined broadband’s benchmarks for website and phone sales over the past three years. This session offers a straightforward breakdown of how traditional sales methods limit provider growth—and how AI software is transforming the way providers like Astound, WCTEL, Alaska Communications, and Breezeline maximize subscriber sales.
Speaker: Joel Silverman, Chief Customer Officer, Actifai

10:55am-11:10am Presentation - K&A IT Solutions
Speaker: Kirkland Cureton is the CEO of K&A IT Solutions

11:10-11:20 am Feedback from judges

Speakers

Joel Silverman

Chief Customer Officer, Actif.ai

As Chief Customer Officer of Actifai, Joel leads the AI company's customer and commercial strategy and is responsible for sales, partnerships, and customer development. He previously served as the CRO of Kasisto, focused on customer service AI applications. Prior to that, Joel held... Read More →

Kirkland Cureton

CEO, K&A IT Solutions

Kirkland Cureton is the CEO of K&A IT Solutions, bringing a wealth of experience in the telecommunications sector. Known for implementing strategies that drive cost reductions and improve operational efficiencies, Kirkland is committed to helping businesses optimize their communication... Read More →

Adrienne Ramsay

Founder, Delphi Strategies

Ariana Batori

Principal, Boundary Street Capital

Ariana Batori is a Principal at Boundary Street Capital, a private credit fund focused on providing flexible capital solutions to lower middle market technology and telecommunications businesses. Prior to Boundary Street, Ariana was a Senior Investment Officer and Global Lead for... Read More →

Bill Stueber

Telecom Partners Group, Founder & Senior Partner

Rajesh John

Partner, New Media IV Holdings

Thursday October 10, 2024 10:40am - 11:20am EDT
Spotlight Stage - Expo Hall

Start Up Pitch Event

11:20am EDT

Partner Keynote - What's Next? Leveraging Investments in Broadband

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:20am - 11:40am EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Speakers

Erin Scarborough

Senior Vice President, Mass Markets Product Management, AT&T

Erin Scarborough leads the team responsible for managing and innovating AT&T’s product portfolio across broadband and mobility, as well as leading fiber and wireless 5G investment initiatives; through participating in government funding programs and public private partnerships... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:20am - 11:40am EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

General Session

11:40am EDT

Partner Keynote - Beyond the Build-Out: Defining the next era of ISP innovation

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:00pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Speakers

Harjot Singh Saluja

CEO, Reach

Harjot Singh Saluja is the CEO of Reach, a platform company disrupting telecom and adjacent industries by revolutionizing how subscription-based services are launched and scaled. Under his leadership, Reach has built a scalable ecosystem of APIs, technology modules, and third-party... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:00pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

General Session

12:00pm EDT

Leaders' Roundtable - From Underground Fiber to Satellites - How Tech Will Bridge the Digital Divide

Thursday October 10, 2024 12:00pm - 12:40pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Pros and cons of all access technology available for remote and rural communities.
Demystifying network architecture technology.
Cost per pass and mitigation strategies to reduce cost.

Moderators

Alex Besen

Founder & CEO, The Besen Group LLC

Alex Besen is the Founder & CEO of The Besen Group LLC. He provides strategic advisory, business development, market research and training services in the mobile data industry.He has over 30 years of hands-on experience in the mobile industry working for operators and vendors in North... Read More →

Speakers

Vini Santos

Solutions Marketing Senior Advisor, Broadband & 5G, Ciena

Vinicius (Vini) Santos is part of Ciena's Global Solutions Marketing team, responsible for business development involving advanced solutions like Next Generation Broadband and Private 5G. He has over 25 years of experience supporting the telecommunication market in Brazil, Italy... Read More →

Martin Marshall

Senior Sales Engineer, Eutelsat/OneWeb

I am a Senior Sales Engineer for OneWeb based in Anchorage, Alaska. I have spent the last 25 years in the telecommunications industry, with the last decade focused on innovation and deployment of emerging technologies. Since joining OneWeb, I have supported our broadband deployments... Read More →

Michael O'Rielly

President, MPORielly Consulting

Jason Livingood

Vice President, Technology Policy, Product & Standards, Comcast

Jason Livingood serves as Vice President of Technology Policy, Product & Standards at Comcast. He leads Comcast’s efforts in developing & deploying new open standards, supporting applied R&D via collaboration with the research community, engaging with governments, regulators, and... Read More →

Tomasz Staszek

Head of BSS Consulting, Comarch

Tomasz is a visionary telecommunications industry leader, spearheading innovative Business Support System (BSS) initiatives as the Head of BSS Solutions at Comarch. With a keen focus on critical modules such as Billing, Product Catalog, Order Management and Customer Relationship Management... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 12:00pm - 12:40pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

General Session

Qtag featuredsessions

12:30pm EDT

Broadband Nation Awards Presentation

Thursday October 10, 2024 12:30pm - 1:00pm EDT

Spotlight Stage - Expo Hall

Award Presentation for the Categories:

Best Broadband & Data mapping solution or Initiative
Best converged solution – Cable & Connectivity
Best Municipal or Public Connectivity Program
Enabling Connectivity - Middle Mile award
Excellence in FTTH Deployment
Excellence in Urban, Open or Neutral Host Connectivity Deployment
Impact Award - Greatest Technical achievement in connecting the unconnected (Individual)
Regional Carrier of the Year (Wireless & Wireline)

Thursday October 10, 2024 12:30pm - 1:00pm EDT
Spotlight Stage - Expo Hall

Networking

12:30pm EDT

Networking Lunch

Thursday October 10, 2024 12:30pm - 2:00pm EDT

Prince George A - Expo Hall

Thursday October 10, 2024 12:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
Prince George A - Expo Hall

Networking

2:00pm EDT

Broadband Nation Workforce Development Award Presentation

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson D

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson D

Track: Workforce Development

2:00pm EDT

Keynote Fireside Chat with Boldyn Networks

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson C

Moderators

Alejandro Piñero

Group Director, Broadband, Questex

Speakers

Walter Cannon

VP Connected Communities & External Affairs, Boldyn

As the Vice President of Connected Communities and External Affairs for Boldyn Networks’ US Business, a leading neutral host provider, Walter is responsible for building and maintaining core relationships at the federal and state levels where Boldyn operates.With more than 30 years... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson C

Track: Connecting Everyone

2:00pm EDT

Keynote- The Power of Middle Mile Networks

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Speakers

Kendra Jo Grindle

Community & Regional Partnerships Senior Manager, Maine Connectivity Authority

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

Track: Fiber for All

2:00pm EDT

Keynote - The Merits of FWA to Bridge the Digital Divide

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson B

Speakers

Claude Aiken

Chief Strategy & Legal Officer, NextLink Internet

Claude Aiken is the Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Legal Officer for Nextlink Internet, the premier provider of fixed-wireless and fiber Internet and phone services across Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Illinois and Iowa. He leads the company’s work on strategic market development... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson B

Track: Wireless Innovation

2:00pm EDT

Keynote Fireside Chat – The National Imperative for Workforce Development

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson D

Moderators

Melissa Newman

Senior Vice President, Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA)

Speakers

Kathryn de Wit

Project Director, Broadband Access Initiative, The Pew Charitable Trusts

Kathryn de Wit directs Pew’s broadband access initiative, which works to accelerate efforts to connect millions of Americans to affordable, reliable high-speed internet. In addition to working with policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders to improve policy outcomes, de... Read More →

Nicol Turner Lee, Ph.D.

Senior Fellow, Governance Studies and Director, Center for Technology Innovation

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson D

Track: Workforce Development

2:20pm EDT

Keynote - Strategies for Rural Connectivity; Driving Down the Cost per Pass

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:20pm - 2:40pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson C

Speakers

Kevin Morgan

CMO, Clearfield

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:20pm - 2:40pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson C

Track: Connecting Everyone

2:20pm EDT

Keynote - AI-Powered Fiber Deployment with amAIz: Maximizing Impact and Efficiency

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:20pm - 2:40pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Explore the transformative impact of Amdocs' amAIz platform in driving fiber deployment strategies that meet today’s bandwidth demands. This session will showcase how AI, powered by amAIz, can enhance customer experiences, reduce costs, and boost employee productivity while improving network operations. Learn how these advancements help organizations achieve their revenue goals and stay ahead in a competitive market. Discover the future of fiber deployment with the cutting-edge AI solutions offered by Amdocs' amAIz platform.

Speakers

Kiran Vemireddi

Head of Solution Sales Architecture, Amdocs

Kiran Vemireddi is a proven Technology leader in the telecommunications industry. He has driven large scale IT and Network transformation programs at major Telecom/Cable operators across the Americas. Kiran is responsible for the growth and program success at the Communications, Media... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:20pm - 2:40pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

Track: Fiber for All

2:20pm EDT

Fireside Chat - The future of convergence: matching experience with brand

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:20pm - 2:40pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson B

- Converged services has been a vital tool for providers over the past several years, allowing operators of all sizes to rapidly release new offerings and enter new markets.

- As operators continue to evolve their offerings to meet consumer demands and claim market share, it is critical that they assess how convergence should impact and feel for these end-users; if your solution has two bills, two systems
and two support teams, it isn’t truly converged.

- In this fireside chat Wavelo’s CEO, Justin Reilly, and industry expert, John Puskar, will discuss the next frontier of converged services, what convergence really means, and how operators can ensure that white labeled services not
only look like brand-owned assets, but that they feel and act like their brand too.

Moderators

John Puskar

Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Foxhound Advisors

John Puskar is a corporate affairs executive, specializing in strategic communications, marketing, and government affairs. He currently serves as Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Foxhound Advisors, the go-to advisory firm for tech and telecom businesses. He helps companies tell... Read More →

Speakers

Justin Reilly

Wavelo, CEO

Justin Reilly is an industry veteran with deep experience in telecom, SaaS and consumer products. He is passionate about building systems that support the next generation of consumers.As CEO of Wavelo, Justin is focused on helping operators maximize value from their networks and enhance... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:20pm - 2:40pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson B

Track: Wireless Innovation

2:20pm EDT

Panel – The Power of Public and Private Partnerships for Workforce Development

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:20pm - 3:05pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson D

Government and industry collaboration drives economic growth by developing tailored workforce development programs that equip individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the broadband industry, ensuring a pipeline of skilled professionals and meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving digital landscape. With available resources and various industries competing for comparable expertise, how are industry and government collaborating to establish a sustainable workforce ecosystem that guarantees leadership in the broadband sector?

The power of partnerships to deliver a new pool of broadband pros
How we as an industry can collaborate to attract talent to the broadband industry
Training requirements: entry level certifications and continuous training and development to impact retention
How are we attracting and supporting nontraditional workers into the industry

Moderators

Dave Stehlin

Chief Executive Officer, Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA)

Speakers

Maria Popo

President and CEO, Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE)

Maria Popo is president and CEO of the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE®), a subsidiary of CableLabs®. Her journey from trade school to academia and boardrooms has been shaped by tenacity, adaptability, and lifelong learning. From customer service representative to senior executive of Global Fortune 50 Foxconn, CEO/president of Ubee Interactive Americas... Read More →

Dr. Chandler LeBoeuf, Ed.D., CWD. CFRE

Vice President of Education, Louisiana Community and Technical College System

Dr. William “Chandler” LeBoeuf serves as the Vice President of Education for the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) and the Executive Director for the LCTCS Foundation. In this capacity, he has oversight of enrollment management and student affairs, academics... Read More →

Kevin Gallagher

Senior Advisor, Accenture

Kevin Gallagher is presently a Senior Advisor to Accenture’s Public Service Practice and a Senior Advisor at WestExec Advisors. Kevin previously served as Senior Advisor to U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. In that role, he advised the Secretary on a wide array of issues relating... Read More →

Richard Zinno

Vice President Strategic Development, MasTec

Richard Zinno currently leads Strategic Development with MasTec Communications Group and is responsible for establishing the partnerships to build the next generation of Fiber Broadband networks. MasTec is a $13B company with 36K people and 220 office across the country. MasTec provides... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:20pm - 3:05pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson D

Track: Workforce Development

2:40pm EDT

Panel - The Impact of Communication on all Aspects of Life

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:40pm - 3:10pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson C

How does connectivity shape lives?
Impact on access to education, healthcare, banking, etc
Measuring the true impact of Bridging the Digital Divide

Moderators

Mark Pearson

Broadband Interstate Coordinator, Communities Unlimited

Speakers

Kristen Engebretsen

COO, Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband Coalition

Kristen Engebretsen, Chief Operating Officer; Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband CoalitionKristen is a nonprofit leader with experience from startups to established national associations. Her 20 years in the fields of arts and education provide her with solid expertise in growing... Read More →

Kyla Williams Tate

Director of Digital Equity, Cook County, IL

Evann Freeman

Vice President, Government & Community Relations, EPB

Evann Freeman joined EPB in 2019 and serves as Vice President, Government and Community Relations. His responsibilities include leading EPB’s governmental relations and economic development efforts through maintaining key relationships with government partners on the local, state... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:40pm - 3:10pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson C

Track: Connecting Everyone

2:40pm EDT

Panel - Middle Mile Networks - Building the Backbone of America's Broadband

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:40pm - 3:10pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Permitting & local deployment challenges.
Technology innovation.
Funding & Regulation.

Moderators

Alex Jeffery

Senior Public Policy Manager, Vernonburg Group

Speakers

Jeff Wilson

Manager for Systems Engineering and Principal Architect for Rural Regional Service Providers,, Ribbon

Laurel Leverrier

Assistant Administrator, Telecommunications Programs, Rural Utilities Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture

Laurel Leverrier is the Assistant Administrator of the USDA’s Rural Utilities Service, Telecommunications Programs, where she oversees RUS' $6 billion portfolio of telecommunications loans and grants.

Greg Cotton

Senior Manager, Field and Network Sales Engineering, Fujitsu

Greg is the Senior Manager of Field and Network Sales Engineering at Fujitsu Network Communications. He is a seasoned telecom professional with over 24 years of experience including a diverse background spanning product management, quality engineering, sales engineering, and management... Read More →

Nate Walowitz

Regional Broadband Program Director, Northwest Colorado Council of Governments

Originally from the east coast and more recently from Evergreen, Nate Walowitz has over 20 years of experience designing, and developing communication solutions for government and public safety enterprise clients. He’s guided the selection and implementation of new approaches for... Read More →

Joel Daly

SVP Government Affairs and Product Strategy, Zayo

Joel Daly is a seasoned entrepreneur and technology executive with a 25-year track record. He currently holds the position of SVP Government Affairs and Product Strategy at Zayo, where he successfully secured NTIA Middle Mile Awards totaling $93M. Over the past 5 years at Zayo, Joel... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:40pm - 3:10pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

Track: Fiber for All

Qtag featuredsessions

2:40pm EDT

Panel - The Wireless Competitive Advantage

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:40pm - 3:10pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson B

Scenarios in which wireless should be the preferred option to connect communities.
Cost-benefit analysis of mmWave and FWA technology.

Moderators

Jonathan Chaplin

Lead Analyst, News Street Research

Speakers

David Eckard

VP Broadband Partners, Nokia

David Eckard is currently the Vice President of Broadband Partners at Nokia, overseeing the company’s response to the historical influx of capital from the various federal and state funding programs that aims to close the digital inequities in our country. Since 1999, David has... Read More →

Sandip Bhowmick

Vice President of Infrastructure and State Broadband Director, Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA)

Sandip Bhowmick currently serves as the Vice President of Infrastructure and State Broadband Director at the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA). He is responsible for overseeing the planning, development, and expansion of broadband infrastructure throughout Arizona. Prior to his current... Read More →

Carl Guardino

Vice President of Government Affairs & Policy, Tarana Wireless

Rebecca Dilg

Director, Utah Broadband Center

Thursday October 10, 2024 2:40pm - 3:10pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson B

Track: Wireless Innovation

3:10pm EDT

Networking Break

Thursday October 10, 2024 3:10pm - 4:00pm EDT

Prince George A - Expo Hall

Thursday October 10, 2024 3:10pm - 4:00pm EDT
Prince George A - Expo Hall

Networking

4:00pm EDT

Fireside - Tribal Broadband

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:20pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson C

Unique challenges and opportunities for tribes.
Success stories & community engagement.
How tribal communities are leveraging broadband for their communities.

Moderators

Godfrey Enjady

President, National Tribal Telecommunications Association, General Manager, Mescalero Apache Telecom

Godfrey Enjady started Mescalero Apache Telecom, Inc. (MATI) in Mescalero, NM and has served as its General Manager since its formation on August 4, 2000. Mr. Enjady additionally serves in the following positions: President of the National Tribal Telecommunications Association... Read More →

Speakers

MJ Barton

Tribal & Programs Outreach Manager, Oklahoma Broadband Office

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:20pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson C

Track: Connecting Everyone

4:00pm EDT

Fireside Chat with AT&T

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:20pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson B

Moderators

Liz Coyne

Editor in Chief, Fierce Network

Liz is editor in chief of Fierce Network. Previously, she was the managing editor for Silverlinings. She made her debut on the telecom stage back when writing 3,000 word articles about Class 5 switches was still a thing that people wanted to read. She honed her skills at Telephony... Read More →

Speakers

Angela Wilkin

Assistant Vice President - Product Management and Development, AT&T

Angela Wilkin is a dynamic leader serving as the Assistant Vice President of Product Management and Development within AT&T’s Mass Markets Organization, where she spearheaded the launch, management and growth of AT&T Internet Air, AT&T’s 5G fixed wireless product.With a rich and... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:20pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson B

Track: Wireless Innovation

4:00pm EDT

Keynote – Strategies to Attract New Talent to Broadband

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:20pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson D

Speakers

Jeremy Sieffert

AVP - Talent Acquisition, AT&T

Jeremy Sieffert is an Assistant Vice President of Talent Acquisition at AT&T. Starting his journey with the company in 2000, Jeremy has accumulated a wealth of experience across various roles, beginning in call center and retail positions. Over the past 15 years, he has dedicated... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:20pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson D

Track: Workforce Development

4:00pm EDT

Panel - Construction & Engineering Networks to Reach Everyone

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:35pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Pitfalls & considerations when planning network construction in remote & rural areas
Common challenges and misconceptions
Labor qualifications

Moderators

David Strauss

Principal, Broadband Success Partners

Speakers

Bryan W. Horn

Director, Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development

Bryan W. Horn serves as the Director of the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. He brings 29 years of business and legal experience to the Youngkin Administration in the fields of residential, commercial and industrial construction, commercial and business litigation... Read More →

Tom Brooks

Director, GIS & Solutions Engineering, Render Networks

A 17 year veteran of the industry based in Richmond, VA, Tom has a background in GIS for OSP management and construction. He joined Render in 2020, initially helping to establish their delivery team before shifting his focus to solutions engineering. With expertise in fiber construction... Read More →

Tom Perrone

COO, GoNetSpeed

Thomas Perrone serves as GoNetspeed’s Chief Operations Officer. Based in Southport North Carolina, Tom is one of GoNetspeed’s founders and oversees all administrative, operational and construction functions of the company’s full footprint.With 25+ years of experience in the... Read More →

Vincent Cioci

CEO, Luck Grove

Vincent serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Luck Grove, an engineering and construction company for the telecom and utility industries. After accepting a role at Luck Grove, Vincent quickly rose through the ranks by developing new streams of revenue for the company and being... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:00pm - 4:35pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

Track: Fiber for All

4:20pm EDT

Panel - The Merits of Open Access Networking

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:20pm - 5:00pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson C

Driving affordability and network flexibility
How open are open networks?
Technical, economic & performance advantages of pursuing open standards

Moderators

Michael Santorelli

Director, Advanced Communications Law & Policy Institute, New York Law School

Michael is the Director of the Advanced Communications Law & Policy Institute (ACLP) at New York Law School. The ACLP studies the array of local, state, and federal legal, regulatory, and public policy issues impacting broadband connectivity. He has served on the FCC’s Consumer... Read More →

Speakers

Justin Johnson

Assistant Vice President – Business Development, AT&T

Justin Johnson is a dynamic and foresighted business leader focused expanding AT&T’s fiber network reach. With a strong background in technology and telecommunications, Justin has an innate ability to identify opportunities and spearhead strategic initiatives that drive growth and... Read More →

Roger Timmerman

Executive Director, UTOPIA Fiber

Roger has been serving as UTOPIA Fiber’s Executive Director since 2016 and has been a technology management professional in telecommunications and information technology for over 15 years. Roger has been designing and building networks throughout his career in various roles including... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:20pm - 5:00pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson C

Track: Connecting Everyone

4:20pm EDT

Panel - Lasers, mmWave, FWA...Exploring the Flavors of Wireless

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:20pm - 5:00pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson B

Assessing all the different options of wireless technology available to carriers.
Cost implications and appropriate deployment strategies.
Network evolution and futureproofing.

Moderators

Sue Marek

Editorial Director, Ookla

Sue Marek is Ookla’s editorial director and part of the company’s analyst team. She oversees the company’s thought leadership and editorial content. Sue is a journalist with more than 30 years of experience covering the telecom industry and her work has appeared in Fierce Network... Read More →

Speakers

Zev Suissa

Chief Growth Officer, X-Lumin

Zev Suissa, M.B.A., Chief Growth Officer at X-lumin Corporation, is leading the Sales and Marketing departments.Zev brings 25 years of experience to X-lumin, having specialized in emerging markets, new channel development,and strategic partnerships across three industries.In the pioneer... Read More →

Mike Dienhart

Vice President, Engineering and Network Operations, UScellular

As vice president of engineering and network operations for UScellular, Mike is responsible for ensuring the superior quality of UScellular’s high-speed network so that customers have the world’s best wireless experience. He also leads engineering teams across the country and... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:20pm - 5:00pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson B

Track: Wireless Innovation

4:20pm EDT

Success Stories in Building Curricula for Broadband Professionals

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:20pm - 5:05pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson D

Tailored training programs offer certifications for positions like Fiber Optic Technicians, Broadband Installation Specialists, and Heavy Equipment Operators. These programs focus on immersive, hands-on learning experiences provided by vocational or community colleges. Through strategic collaborations with both industry and government partners, these programs prepare individuals for successful careers within their local communities.

The role of non-degree programs in creating a pipeline of broadband talent
Curricula development
Attracting and supporting diverse students

Moderators

Jennifer Stiddard

Senior Fellow, National Skills Coalition

Jennifer Stiddard is a Senior Fellow at the National Skills Coalition, where she serves as an expert on higher education and workforce policy for the organization’s government affair’s team. In that role, Jennifer focuses particularly on federal policies to increase access and... Read More →

Speakers

Catherine Frugé Starghill, Esq.

Vice President of the New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC) and Executive Director, New Jersey Community College Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development (NJCCCWED)

Catherine Frugé Starghill, Esq. is the Vice President of the New Jersey Council of County Colleges (NJCCC) and Executive Director of the New Jersey Community College Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development (NJCCCWED). She has been with the NJCCC since May 2020. And, she... Read More →

Stacey Slaughter

CEO, NCTI

Stacey Slaughter is the president and CEO of NCTI, a leading provider of training, education, and workforce development services. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Washington, she built a 20-year career with Jones International, rising to CFO... Read More →

Dr. Gemma Frock

Director of Workforce Development, NATE Workforce Development Committee

Dr. Gemma Frock has been engaged with the telecommunications industry since 2012 in her role as the Vice President of Education and Training at Aiken Technical College. She led the efforts to develop and implement a series of stackable certificates for a tower technicians’ program... Read More →

Gilberto Guitarte

FOA-CFOS/I Certified Fiber Optics Instructor, Wake Tech Community College

Gilberto was born in Argentina, where he graduated as an Industrial Engineer from UCA Buenos Aires with honors and received the CAI “Patricio Shanley Award for Overall Engineering Studies Performance.” He earned a post-graduate title in Advanced Management from UNC Chapel Hill... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:20pm - 5:05pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson D

Track: Workforce Development

4:35pm EDT

Fireside Chat- Making Sense of the Converged Broadband and Entertainment Landscape

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:35pm - 4:55pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Overcoming market challenges for fast entry and scaling
Leveraging partnerships to accelerate time-to-market
Driving success with exceptional customer experiences

Moderators

Chris Huppertz

Vice President & General Manager, Bob Gold & Associates

Chris Huppertz is a visionary PR and Marketing executive with over 11 years in telecommunications, media, and technology industries. As Vice President & General Manager at Bob Gold & Associates, Chris is renowned for his business acumen and innovative approach, delivering award-winning... Read More →

Speakers

Reid Jenkins

Vice President, Strategic Business, CSG, CSG

Reid Jenkins is Vice President, Strategic Business at CSG, responsible for the company's Communications, Media and Technology business unit. In his 10+ years at CSG, Reid has been pivotal in establishing consistency in how the company meets and exceeds customer goals and objectives... Read More →

Rick Fernandez

Director, Product Management, CSG, CSG

Rick Fernandez is Director, Product Management at CSG, responsible for the company's ACP offering and leading its fiber solutions and go-to-market strategy. In his 20 years at CSG, Rick has built high-performing, cross-functional teams that solve complex process, system and application... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:35pm - 4:55pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

Track: Fiber for All

4:55pm EDT

Fireside Chat – Leveraging Vendor Relationships to Navigate BABA Compliance for BEAD

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:55pm - 5:15pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Moderators

Alejandro Piñero

Group Director, Broadband, Questex

Speakers

Josh Simer

Market Strategy and Innovation Manager for Service Providers and Multiple System Operators, AFL

Josh Simer is AFL’s market strategy & innovation manager for service providers and multiple system operators (MSOs). He has been in the optical fiber and ICT industries for 16 years, prior to which he was a US Army Infantry Officer. Simer has served and continues to serve in a variety... Read More →

Will Miller

Program Manager, Strategic Programs, Broadband, AFL

Will Miller, Program Manager, Strategic Programs, Broadband at AFL, boasts over 15 years of expertise in fiber optic cable and connectivity across multiple manufacturers. With a diverse career encompassing pivotal roles in field engineering, applications engineering, and product line... Read More →

Thursday October 10, 2024 4:55pm - 5:15pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

Track: Fiber for All

5:10pm EDT

Exhibition Networking Reception

Thursday October 10, 2024 5:10pm - 7:00pm EDT

Prince George A - Expo Hall

Thursday October 10, 2024 5:10pm - 7:00pm EDT
Prince George A - Expo Hall

Networking

8:00am EDT

Expo Floor Open

Friday October 11, 2024 8:00am - 2:00pm EDT

Prince George A - Expo Hall

Friday October 11, 2024 8:00am - 2:00pm EDT
Prince George A - Expo Hall

8:30am EDT

Leader's Roundtable - Building the Broadband Workforce

Friday October 11, 2024 8:30am - 9:00am EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Understanding the need for a larger and more skilled workforce.
Programs to attract and retrain talent.
How to make broadband cool again.

Moderators

Tommy Clift

Editor, Broadband Nation

Tommy Clift is a multi-disciplined writer, musician and creator. Within tech, he has covered topics in telecom, diversity and inclusion, cybersecurity, AI, cloud technologies, and more. Tommy is a graduate of Colorado University Denver with a degree in music business and a minor in... Read More →

Speakers

Peter Voderberg

Chief, BroadbandOhio, Ohio Department of Development

Peter serves as the Chief of BroadbandOhio, an office within the Department of Development dedicated to bringing high-speed internet service to every resident in Ohio. Created by Governor Mike DeWine, it serves as the access point for industry and the public for coordinating the state’s... Read More →

Aaron Banks

City Council President, City of Jackson, MS

Pastor and spiritual shepherd, a teacher of teachers, ministerial and business visionary, motivational speaker, political consultant and grassroots organizer Aaron B. Banks is known for his gift to empower and mobilize people to prove what is acceptable unto the Lord. Aaron B. Banks... Read More →

Edyn Rolls

Chief Strategic Officer, Oklahoma Broadband Office

Edyn Rolls is a dynamic leader in the public and private sectors with experience in various roles. She is currently serving as the Director of Broadband Strategy at the Oklahoma Broadband Office, where she is responsible for implementing the State Broadband Plan. In this role, Edyn... Read More →

Todd Jackson

Director, Workforce Development, Fiber Broadband Association

Todd joined the Fiber Broadband Association as the Director of Workforce Development in July 2023 after working as the Market President and President of Workforce Development for an Internet Service Provider Startup and the City of Westerville, where he served the community as Chief... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 8:30am - 9:00am EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

General Session

9:00am EDT

Keynote - Why Broadband Matters

Friday October 11, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Community Impact Stories.
Financial benefits for constituents.

Speakers

Darcie L. Houck

Commissioner, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC)

Commissioner Darcie L. Houck was appointed to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) by Governor Gavin Newsom on Feb. 9, 2021. She formerly served as Chief Counsel for the California Energy Commission since 2019.Commissioner Houck was an Administrative Law Judge at the... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

Keynote

9:20am EDT

Keynote by TWN Communications

Friday October 11, 2024 9:20am - 9:40am EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Moderators

Diana Goovaerts

Executive Editor, Fierce Network

Speakers

Jonathan Adelstein

Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy and External Affairs Officer, TWN Communications

Friday October 11, 2024 9:20am - 9:40am EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

Keynote

9:40am EDT

Fireside Chat with Verizon

Friday October 11, 2024 9:40am - 10:00am EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Moderators

Dave Stehlin

Chief Executive Officer, Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA)

Speakers

Kwame Trotman

SVP Wireline Center & Business Operations, Verizon

Kwame Trotman is Senior Vice President of Wireline Network Center & Business Operations (WNO), with responsibility for wireline network Business Operations, Operations Control Centers (OCC), the Fiber Solutions Center (FSC) and the local transport NOCs. His team is focused on leading... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 9:40am - 10:00am EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

Keynote

10:00am EDT

Leader's Roundtable - Harnessing the Power of Electrical Co-ops to Deliver Broadband to All

Friday October 11, 2024 10:00am - 10:30am EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Why co-ops have a natural role to play in connecting remote and rural networks.
Organizational switches and challenges in moving from electric utility to connectivity.
Benefits to the community & to the difficult economics of rural broadband.

Moderators

Cliff Johnson

Head of Rural Broadband Initiative, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association

Cliff Johnson is the Director of the NRECA’s Broadband Initiative, where he is responsible for working across the organization to lead the program’s design, development, and operation.Cliff joined the NRECA in January 2024 following six years at Bloomberg, where he led the marketing... Read More →

Speakers

Mike Malandro

President & CEO, Choptank Electric Cooperative

Mike Malandro is the President and CEO of Choptank Electric Cooperative and President of Choptank Fiber, a wholly owned subsidiary, located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Mike has worked in the electric utility industry since 1999 and has been with Electric Cooperatives since 2003... Read More →

Beau Jackson

CEO, White River Connect

Friday October 11, 2024 10:00am - 10:30am EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

General Session

10:30am EDT

Networking Break

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:15am EDT

Prince George A - Expo Hall

Friday October 11, 2024 10:30am - 11:15am EDT
Prince George A - Expo Hall

Networking

11:15am EDT

Leader's Roundtable - Building Municipal Networks

Friday October 11, 2024 11:15am - 12:00pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson A

Current reach and impact of municipally run broadband networks.
Economic benefits to the community and the cities.
Overcoming regulatory and legal challenges to their deployment.

Moderators

Christopher Mitchell

Director, Community Broadband Networks, Institute for Local Self-Reliance

Christopher Mitchell is the Director of the Community Broadband Networks Initiative with the Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR) in Minneapolis. Mitchell is a leading national expert on community networks, Internet access, and local broadband policies.Mitchell built MuniNetworks.org... Read More →

Speakers

Vini Santos

Solutions Marketing Senior Advisor, Broadband & 5G, Ciena

Kendra Jo Grindle

Community & Regional Partnerships Senior Manager, Maine Connectivity Authority

Gigi Sohn

Executive Director, American Association for Public Broadband

Gigi Sohn is a Distinguished Fellow at the Georgetown Law Institute for Technology Law & Policy and a Benton Senior Fellow & Public Advocate. She is the host of the “Tech on the Rocks Podcast.” Gigi sits on the Board of Directors of the Electronic Frontier Foundation.Gigi is one... Read More →

Sandip Bhowmick

Vice President of Infrastructure and State Broadband Director, Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA)

Jason Mittler

FPUAnet Manager, Fort Pierce Utilities Authority

Jason Mittler has worked for Fort Pierce Utilities Authority for almost 22 years. He graduated from Indian River State College in 2014 with his Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management. He has over 18 years in engineering, planning and project management of utility infrastructure... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 11:15am - 12:00pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson A

General Session

12:00pm EDT

Keynote - Making a Downpayment on the Administration’s Goal of Affordable, Reliable, High-Speed Internet for All

Friday October 11, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT

Speakers

Joseph Wender

Director, Capital Project Fund, US Department of Treasury

Joseph Wender currently serves as Director of the Capital Projects Fund, overseeing the $10 billion program at the U.S. Department of the Treasury and helping to ensure that all communities have access to high-quality modern infrastructure, including affordable, reliable high-speed... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT

Keynote

12:20pm EDT

Leader's Roundtable- Driving Digital Equity Through Urban Connectivity

Friday October 11, 2024 12:20pm - 12:50pm EDT

Affordability strategies
The role of the administration in driving connectivity
Impact on Digital Inclusion, and Strategies looking Ahead

Moderators

Heather Gate

Executive Vice President, Digital Inclusion, Connected Nation

Heather Gate has dedicated over 17 years of her life to bridging the digital divide and enhancing the lives of vulnerable populations through technology access, adoption, and use. Her unwavering passion for this cause is truly inspiring.Heather Gate's professional journey is a testament... Read More →

Speakers

Ronnie Hammond

Director, Office of Statewide Broadband, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development

Ronnie is a highly accomplished professional with a commitment to enhancing connectivity and digital equity. With a decade-long career spanning both the private and public sectors, Ronnie has been a driving force in Diversity & Equity initiatives. In 2019, he transitioned to the Office... Read More →

Luisa Calumpong

City Broadband Manager, City of Oakland, CA

Luisa has extensive experience working with rural power cooperatives on GPON and XGS-PON network design, engineering, and construction, conducting feasibility studies essential for financial forecasts, designing greenfield fiber-optic networks, and integrating fiber-to-the-home best... Read More →

Juliet Fink-Yates

Broadband and Digital Inclusion Manager, City of Philadelphia, PA

Bio: Juliet Fink Yates has worked on addressing digital equity since 2001 when she managed a small non-profit ISP for 10,000 low-income Philadelphians. In 2010, she wrote, in collaboration with the City of Philadelphia, a broadband stimulus grant that brought $5.4 million to low-income... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 12:20pm - 12:50pm EDT

Keynote

12:50pm EDT

Networking Lunch

Friday October 11, 2024 12:50pm - 2:00pm EDT

Prince George A - Expo Hall

Friday October 11, 2024 12:50pm - 2:00pm EDT
Prince George A - Expo Hall

Networking

2:00pm EDT

Fireside Chat with AlixPartners

Friday October 11, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson C

Economic outlook
The changing economics of fiber
M&A activity & trends

Moderators

Linda Hardesty

Executive Editor, Broadband, Fierce Network

Speakers

Andrej Danis

Partner & Managing Director, AlixPartners

Andrej leads the Americas’ Digital Infrastructure practice and is experienced in helping companies solve operational and strategic challenges both as an internal manager and as a consultant in different functions across North America & Europe.His primary focus is on large-scale... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson C

Track: Broadband & Infrastructure Economics

2:00pm EDT

Fireside Chat with the CEO of Maple Broadband & Chair of the Vermont Communications Union Districts Association

Friday October 11, 2024 2:00pm - 2:25pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson B

Speakers

Ellie de Villiers

Chair, Vermont Communications Union Districts Association (VCUDA)

Ellie de Villiers holds a number of positions across the public and private sectors, with a focus on telecommunications and affordable access. Ellie is Executive Director of Maple Broadband Communications Union District in Vermont, USA, and Group Head of Affordable Access Initiatives... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 2:00pm - 2:25pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson B

Track: Connecting Everyone

2:20pm EDT

Keynote - Public-Private Partnership Models

Friday October 11, 2024 2:20pm - 2:40pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson C

Speakers

Anna Lucey

Executive Vice President of Legislative & External Affairs, New England Connectivity & Telecommunications Association

Anna Lucey joined NECTA in 2023 as Executive Vice President of Legislative and External Affairs. Before joining NECTA, Anna put to work her years of experience developing public policy at her own Massachusetts’ focused public policy consulting firm, A. Lucey Strategies, representing... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 2:20pm - 2:40pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson C

Track: Broadband & Infrastructure Economics

2:25pm EDT

Keynote - Unlocking Communities with Connectivity

Friday October 11, 2024 2:25pm - 2:45pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson B

Speakers

Oneisha Freeman Rojales

Digital Connectivity Manager, Georgia Technology Authority

Oneisha Freeman Rojales is a Georgia native and a leader in digital inclusion with over 20 years of experience in the technology industry. As the Digital Connectivity Manager at the Georgia Technology Authority, she is part of the broadband team and spearheads efforts to ensure equitable... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 2:25pm - 2:45pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson B

Track: Connecting Everyone

2:40pm EDT

Panel - Broadband Private Equity Panel

Friday October 11, 2024 2:40pm - 3:20pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson C

What makes fiber an interesting investment.
The private equity perspective on risk.
Upcoming technology and investment trends.

Moderators

Michael Grebb

SVP & Lead Analyst, One Touch Intelligence

Speakers

Jack Lawrence

Co-Founder & CFO, Amperage Infrastructure

Jack Lawrence is a highly regarded senior executive with a forward-thinking mindset, drawing upon decades of experience to ensure the operational excellence and financial vitality of both private and public companies spanning diverse industries. Currently, Jack serves as CFO and Chief... Read More →

Tyson Begly

SVP Corporate Investments, Highline Fiber

Tyson Begly is the Senior Vice President of Corporate Investments for Highline in West Point. Mr. Begly has worked in the technology sector for more than 20 years, including in consulting, executive, and investment roles. Currently, he's focused on strategic growth initiatives via... Read More →

Irtiaz Ahmad

Managing Director, Head Of Digital Infrastructure, Solomon Partners

Irtiaz Ahmad is a Managing Director in Infrastructure, Power & Renewables and serves as Head of Digital Infrastructure. He joined Solomon Partners in 2021. Irtiaz specializes in advising public and private clients around the world in the Digital Infrastructure & Services sector on mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures and public & private c... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 2:40pm - 3:20pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson C

Track: Broadband & Infrastructure Economics

2:45pm EDT

Panel - Why Connectivity Matters - Summary of Key Takeaways from Broadband Nation Expo 2024

Friday October 11, 2024 2:45pm - 3:30pm EDT

Woodrow Wilson B

Moderators

Deborah Lathen

President, Lathen Consulting LLC

Speakers

Alex Minard

Vice President & Lead Legislative Counsel, NCTA - The Internet & Television Association

Alex is Vice President & Lead Legislative Counsel of NCTA – The Internet & Television Association. Alex is responsible for NCTA’s federal and state legislative portfolio and for the association’s advocacy and partnerships with various national intergovernmental organizations... Read More →

Peter Voderberg

Chief, BroadbandOhio, Ohio Department of Development

Meghan Sandfoss

Executive Director, Kentucky Office of Broadband Development

Meghan Sandfoss is the Executive Director of the Kentucky Office of Broadband Development, a role to which she was appointed in September 2022 by Governor Andy Beshear. In this role, she oversees planning and implementation of federal funding for the deployment of broadband infrastructure... Read More →

Michelle Cabiya

Director, Puerto Rico Broadband Program

Michelle M. Cabiya Zorilla is a highly experienced professional with a solid educational background in project management and business development. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Physical Geography, specializing in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and a minor in Communications... Read More →

Friday October 11, 2024 2:45pm - 3:30pm EDT
Woodrow Wilson B

Track: Connecting Everyone