Many electric and telephone cooperatives across the West are capitalizing on their existing infrastructure to build out broadband networks for their rural constituents. Panelists in this webinar examined the logistical and regulatory barriers that cooperatives face when planning and constructing broadband infrastructure. It also highlighted how federal programs supporting smart grid investments can lead to increased rural broadband deployment.

Panelists included:

• Brian O’Hara, Senior Director of Regulatory Issues, National Rural Electric Cooperatives Association (Moderator)
• Seth Arndorfer, CEO, Dakota Carrier Network
• Kent Blackwell, Chief Technology Officer, Delta Montrose Electric Association
• Chad Rupe, Administrator, U.S. Department of Agriculture – Rural Utilities Service

The webinar was part of a series in conjunction with the Chair’s Initiative, which is examining challenges and opportunities in rural economic development, including a strong focus on promoting digital connectivity to rural communities.

Download session slides

Download Chad Rupe's presentation