RTIME 2017 has come to a close. These last 4 days has brought together an industry of innovation, synergy and passion for the rural broadband services. We’ve learned and collaborated on topics such as telemedicine, growth and cultural change—and let’s not forget to mention the solid Expo. Today, we closed the conference with:
- Updates on the Foundation for Rural Service (FRS).
- Panel discussions on how to use analytics to drive revenue.
- An economic forecast.
- A humorous political outlook with the keynote speaker.
- And honored those committed to the rural communities within our industry.
FRS Update
FRS Board President, Stephen Milner and FRS Executive Director, Jessica Golden shared heart felt stories of how FRS grants assists rural communities and FRS scholarships promote education within the communities. Missed the update? You can view the live recording on the FRS Facebook page.
Panel Discussion: “Making Money with Telco Analytics.”
NTCA CEO Shirley Bloomfield was joined with Brock Johansen, CEO of Emery Telcom, Carl Russo CEO of Calix and Nancy White CEO/GM of NCTC for a powerhouse panel discussion on how to use analytics to drive revenue for your telco. Read more about the discussion on Shirley's blog post, "Data Analytics Matter."
Economic Update
Sheldon Petersen, CEO of RTFC provided insight into the 2017 economic forecast on new developments that could affect the rural broadband industry. His analysis predicts that the marketplace will take the spotlight in the economy from the Federal Reseve. The market economy will depend on these changes: Obamacare fix, immigration reform, and trade policy.
Keynote Speaker
Keynote speaker Ron Fournier delivered a heartfelt personal story about his relationship with his son and how he applies it to every day life and how he views politics. He states that change is going to happen and we need to adapt because who's to say what is "normal."
See You at RTIME 2018
Although we are sad to bring RTIME 2017 to a close, we have a lot to take back home with us and share with our colleagues. The conversation doesn’t have to end on the last day of RTIME 2017, continue sharing your stories and the things you’ve learned on social media using #RTIME2017 and be sure to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook. For now we wish you safe travels back home and we’ll see you in Austin at next year’s RTIME 2018 (February 25-28, 2018)!
