Last week was one for the books. I hit three cities in four days and was lucky enough to have the rare cooperation of the spring weather gods all along the way. Whew!
The adventure started with a visit to the Indiana Rural Broadband Association (INRBA), a statewide organization representing the state's small, rural, community-based broadband providers. How could I possibly miss Jim Dauby's first meeting as INRBA president? With so much history between us, coupled with NTCA's search service placing Jim in the role just a few months ago, it was a must-do for me.
Jim was on the NTCA Board of Directors when I applied to return to the association as CEO. His ability to balance his sense of humor, contagious laughter and thoughtful leadership were traits I had always appreciated in him in my 1.0 tour of NTCA, but getting to work with him around the board table gave me a whole new appreciation of his leadership traits, particularly as we went through the unification with OPASTCO. Now, the circle has been completed.
The trip to Indianapolis was an early-start day trip, but what a great way to spend time with our Indiana industry leadership. We shared notes on the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program, and I gave an update on all things Washington, industry and NTCA. Then, it was off to the next adventure.
I headed out to the Hill Country of Texas, where I enjoyed the hospitality of HCTC (Ingram, Texas) CEO Craig Cook, his team and his board. Getting the opportunity to be on the ground with our members is the best way for those of us who represent them to get the most insight into their daily challenges and see where their long-term opportunities lie. I only wish I could do it more often.
It was really insightful to tour HCTC’s facilities, including the company’s data center, warehouse and construction yard. It was also great to hear from members of Craig’s team about the challenges of competing against large providers on the data center front, building into CLEC territories and the push to keep the company’s central office technology up to date with rapid changes from vendors. Thanks to the entire HCTC team for rolling out the red carpet for me in Ingram, Texas!
The busy week ended in Chicago, where I spent some time with my dad before heading back to Washington for Legislative and Policy Conference prep!