AGENDA
*sessions and schedule are subject to change
All Master Monday sessions are an additional registration fee and not included in the WISPAPALOOZA only (Tues-Thurs) registration.
- Monday, October 14, 2024
- Tuesday, October 15, 2024
- Wednesday, October 16, 2024
- Thursday, October 17, 2024
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8:00 AM - 8:30 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM | Mar/Sales Join us for an engaging session on mastering marketing strategies for small businesses. Learn to create engaging social media posts, utilize customer referral programs, and leverage cost-effective print products. Discover the importance of in-person events, the rule of 3 for brand exposure, and effective ways to measure your marketing success. This session will provide actionable insights to help you boost your reach and grow your business. | Bis Discover how Six Sigma methodologies can enhance the efficiency and quality of your ISP operations. This session will introduce you to the core principles of Six Sigma and demonstrate how to apply them to reduce defects, streamline processes, and improve customer satisfaction. Learn practical techniques for data analysis, process improvement, and performance measurement tailored specifically for the ISP industry. Join us for actionable insights that will help you deliver superior service and achieve operational excellence. | Tech | Reg In 2022, the FCC and NTIA adopted a number of policies that can help you determine if deploying your services to MTEs will help your business grow. Join this detailed session to learn more. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM | Mar/Sales | Bis Whether choosing fiber or wireless, building a successful ISP business hinges on prioritizing essentials. While advanced technology and additional services can add value, they aren't always critical from the outset. Join us to learn how focusing on fundamental elements can lay a strong foundation for long-term success. Discover strategies for prioritizing key aspects of your business to ensure steady growth and sustainability. | Adv Tech Learn how to accelerate growth and reduce labor costs by automating customer equipment provisioning. This session will cover key technologies like TR-069 and OpenSync/OpenMesh, and explore how to integrate these with your core CMS and business processes. Gain insights into creating seamless and efficient workflows that lead to desired outcomes, helping your business scale faster and more efficiently. Join us to unlock the potential of automation in provisioning customer equipment and enhance your operational efficiency. | Reg Learn how states are deciding on the subgrantee selection process, extremely high cost per location thresholds, letters of credit and other important BEAD issues | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
11:45 AM - 1:15 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM | ABC Dive into the fundamentals of fiber installation in this practical session. Learn the basics and essential rules of thumb for installation, splicing, and testing fiber optic cables. Gain valuable insights and hands-on tips to ensure successful and efficient fiber deployment. Join us to build a solid foundation in fiber installation techniques and best practices. | Tech Explore hybrid power options for building new sites and upgrading existing ones in this insightful session. Learn the benefits of using DC power for your network and the best practices for safely designing sites with both +48V and -48V DC. Join us to understand how hybrid power solutions can enhance the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of your ISP operations. | Fiber | Bis | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM | Tech Master the essentials of grounding and bonding in this comprehensive session. Learn the critical aspects of system design, installation, and testing to ensure safety and reliability. Gain practical insights and techniques to implement effective grounding and bonding practices in your projects. Join us to enhance your understanding and skills in this vital area of infrastructure development. | ABC Explore the essentials of getting started in the wireless industry in this introductory session. Whether you're new to wireless technology or looking to expand your knowledge, join us to learn the foundational principles, key terminology, and basic concepts necessary to navigate the wireless landscape. Gain insights into the different types of wireless technologies, their applications, and considerations for deployment. This session is perfect for beginners and those interested in understanding the fundamentals of wireless communications. | HR Transitioning from "doer" to leader can be challenging. If you're a business owner with a growing team counting on you, this session is essential. Join us for 1.5 hours of expert insights where our panelists will guide you on hiring best practices, building a strong workplace culture, measuring performance, and fostering workforce development. Gain practical strategies to effectively lead and grow your business, ensuring both your team's success and your own growth as a leader. | Reg WISPA cannot do all of the necessary advocacy by itself. We need WISPA members to also meet with their federal and state legislative members. This panel will inform you about the dos and don'ts of grassroots and other advocacy. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM | Plan to be at WISPAPALOOZA on Monday evening for our WISPA-versary celebration! The evening begins at 5:00 PM with a cocktail hour, followed by the comedy show "Technically Funny" by America's #1 Nerdy Comedian Don McMillan at 6:00 PM sharp. WISPA's very own Rural Revolution band will follow the comedy show! Admission to this event is included with a paid registration for WISPAPALOOZA (you do not need to have Master Monday as part of your registration). Guest registrations for this event will be available for $75 - all guests must be accompanied by a WISPAPALOOZA attendee with a badge. Your badge is required for entrance to this event so be sure to pick it up at registration by 5:00 PM in the Paris Convention Center. More about Don McMillan: What do you get when you cross an Engineer with a stand-up comedian? You get Don McMillan. This former chip designer has been doing his one-of-a-kind, PowerPoint-Driven comedy show for audiences for over 20 years. In his show packed with graphs & charts, Don will show you the funny side of your world that has been sitting right in front of you – you are just too busy working to notice. Don graduated from Stanford University with a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering. He then went to work at AT&T Bell Labs where he was part of the team that designed the world’s first 32-bit microprocessor. He then moved to Silicon Valley where he helped launch the start-up company, VLSI Technology. Then after 15 years in the tech world, Don quit his job to become a stand-up comedian. That year he won $100,000 as the Comedy Grand Champion on “Star Search”. Don’s been seen on “The Tonight Show”, “HBO”, and the “Comedy Central."
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7:00 AM - 6:30 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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8:30 AM - 9:30 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
9:30 AM - 9:45 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
9:45 AM - 11:00 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
11:00 AM - 11:15 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
11:15 AM - 12:30 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12:30 PM - 2:30 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM | Bis Explore effective strategies for competing against Cable Multiple System Operators (MSOs) in this focused session. Learn how adaptability, speed test results, and exceptional customer service can give your ISP a competitive edge. Discover tactics to swiftly adapt to market changes, optimize network performance to deliver superior speed test results, and provide outstanding customer service that builds loyalty and satisfaction. Gain practical insights and actionable tips to differentiate your ISP from MSOs and attract and retain customers in a competitive market. Join us to learn how to effectively position your ISP for success against Cable MSOs. | Reg This panel will extensively cover the various business considerations and legal issues that are relevant to your decisions to sell your WISP, acquire another one | Fiber | ABC Different regulations to consider when you are trying to deploy voice services. This panel will also cover important FCC rules and other legal issues that WISPs should know before starting their business such as the FCC’s new digital discrimination rules, Title II rules for broadband service, annual FCC filings and compliance, Terms of Use agreements, and privacy policies. | Adv Tech Delve into the complexities of transit, transport, and Internet Exchange Point (IXP) peering in this informative session. Learn essential strategies for selecting cost-effective and redundant transport options, vetting transit providers, and leveraging the benefits of participating in IXPs to enhance network performance. Discover how proximity to content reduces latency and improves user experience, and explore multi-homing with BGP for resilience, DDoS protection strategies, and secure interconnection practices. Whether you're optimizing network efficiency or enhancing security measures, this session will equip you with practical insights to navigate the intricacies of transit, transport, and peering in the telecommunications industry. | Vendor Hear InfoWest, MCSnet, Nextlink and others share how they are achieving superior performance, streamlining operations, and maximizing their revenue using solutions at 6 GHz, 60 GHz and more. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2:30 PM - 4:30 PM | Tech Explore proven tower design strategies encompassing everything from selecting optimal locations to choosing mounts, towers, and equipment types, as well as best practices for cable management and cabinet layout. Discover innovative designs for climbable small towers that optimize space and functionality. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your tower installation skills, this session offers practical insights and techniques to ensure efficient and effective tower deployment. Join us to learn how to implement reliable and scalable tower designs that meet your operational needs and enhance network performance. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM | Vendor | Reg Learn how to navigate rights-of-way and other infrastructure siting challenges and policies, such as pole attachments, railways, and NTIA’s developments of NEPA and NHPA for BEAD programs and that agency’s push for streamlining the siting of broadband infrastructure on federal lands. | Bis Join us for a comprehensive update on navigating the landscape of Broadband Infrastructure Deployment (BEAD) funding. Explore the current state of affairs and discuss the impact of BEAD funding on the telecommunications industry. Learn about the opportunities and challenges encountered in leveraging BEAD funds for network expansion, upgrades, and infrastructure development. Gain insights into the regulatory environment, funding allocations, and strategic considerations for maximizing the benefits of BEAD funding. Finally, explore the possibilities of utilizing BEAD funds for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the industry. Whether you're directly involved in BEAD projects or exploring new growth opportunities, this session will provide valuable perspectives and strategies to thrive in the evolving broadband ecosystem. | ABC Different regulations to consider when you are trying to deploy broadband services. This panel will also cover important FCC rules and other legal issues that WISPs should know before starting their business such as the FCC’s new digital discrimination rules, Title II rules for broadband service, annual FCC filings and compliance, Terms of Use agreements, and privacy policies. | Adv Tech Discover the latest emerging technologies poised to impact your business in this informative session. Learn how to differentiate between fleeting buzzwords and technologies with substantial potential. Explore strategies for integrating new technologies effectively into your business operations to gain a competitive edge. Whether it's AI, blockchain, IoT, or other innovations, this session will provide practical insights and tools to navigate and capitalize on emerging tech trends. Join us to stay ahead of the curve and position your business for future success. | Fiber Navigating the options for fiber network architecture can be daunting. Join us for an in-depth exploration of Active Ethernet, GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network), XGS-PON (10 Gigabit Symmetrical Passive Optical Network), and emerging technologies on the horizon. Learn how to evaluate and select the best architecture for your specific network requirements, considering factors such as bandwidth, scalability, cost-effectiveness, and future-proofing. Whether you're planning a new fiber deployment or optimizing an existing network, this session will provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions and maximize the performance of your fiber infrastructure. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
5:00 PM - 6:45 PM |
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
7:30 AM - 6:30 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
8:00 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
8:30 AM - 9:30 AM | Reg This panel will give you important updates about those vital spectrum proceedings at the FCC and NTIA. This topic will be divided into two panels. This is the first panel. | Bis Discover strategic insights on valuing your Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP) and exploring exit strategies in this focused session. Founders who have dedicated years to building their ISP will gain valuable perspectives on maximizing returns. Topics include understanding the differences in valuation between fiber and wireless technologies, assessing the impact of BEAD funding and potential overbuild scenarios, navigating generational shifts in the market, and leveraging M&A opportunities for strategic growth and exit planning. Whether you're preparing for the future or actively seeking exit strategies, join us to gain crucial insights into optimizing the value of your WISP and planning for a successful transition. | Tech Discover the essential steps to acquire Internet Number Resources for achieving full network autonomy with IPv6 from your upstream providers in this informative session. Learn practical strategies and considerations for implementing IPv6 in your network to enhance scalability, address space availability, and future-proof your infrastructure. Gain insights into navigating the processes and requirements involved in obtaining IPv6 allocations and assignments. Additionally, explore the current landscape of the American Registry for Internet Numbers (ARIN), including updates to services, fees, and membership structures that impact IPv6 deployment. Join us to empower your network with IPv6 and stay ahead in the evolving Internet ecosystem. | Fiber Embarking on a fiber buildout requires careful planning and informed decision-making across various aspects. This session will equip you with the essential questions to ask and answers to have in place, whether you're dealing with construction (in-house or contractor), equipment vendors, material distributors, or legal considerations. Learn about crucial aspects such as project timelines, budgeting, construction methods, quality control, equipment specifications, supply chain logistics, regulatory compliance, and contractual obligations. Gain insights into best practices for managing each phase of your fiber buildout project to ensure efficiency, effectiveness, and regulatory compliance. Join us to streamline your fiber buildout process and mitigate potential challenges effectively. | Fin Every business owner will eventually transition from their role, whether to a third party, family member, or employees. A planned transition often leads to smoother outcomes compared to unplanned ones. This session offers real-world insights into preparing for business transition, whether it involves succession planning, a management buyout, or a third-party sale. Hear from experienced owners who have successfully navigated these transitions and advisors who have supported them through the process. Gain practical advice and actionable steps to ensure your business is prepared for a seamless and successful transition. Join us to learn what it takes to get your house in order for the next phase of your business journey. | Adv Tech Protect your ISP from becoming a cautionary tale by implementing best standards and practices in network security. This session focuses on essential strategies to safeguard your network, including zone and management segregation, access control lists (ACLs), authentication mechanisms, and securing APIs. Learn how to effectively mitigate security risks, prevent unauthorized access, and ensure the integrity of your network infrastructure. Gain insights into proactive measures and industry-recommended approaches to enhance the resilience and reliability of your ISP's security posture. Whether you're a network administrator, IT manager, or business owner, join us to strengthen your understanding of ISP network security and safeguard your operations against evolving threats. | Vendor | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM | Fiber Explore the critical principles of fiber design and engineering in this focused session. Learn the importance of meticulous planning to optimize fiber deployment efficiency and reliability. Discover best practices for designing fiber networks, including route planning, equipment selection, splice management, and quality assurance measures. Gain insights into how thorough planning can minimize errors and reduce costs associated with fiber splicing and maintenance. Whether you're new to fiber design or looking to refine your engineering practices, join us to ensure your fiber projects are executed with precision and success. | Fin Discover essential tips and strategies for scaling your Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP) from a financial perspective in this insightful session. Learn effective financial structuring techniques to attract funding opportunities and accelerate company growth. Explore key considerations such as financial forecasting, budgeting for expansion, optimizing capital allocation, and identifying potential funding sources including grants, loans, and investor partnerships. Gain practical insights into navigating financial challenges and maximizing profitability while scaling your WISP operations. Whether you're a startup or looking to expand, join us to gain the financial knowledge needed to propel your WISP to the next level of success. | Bis Transitioning from Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to Managed Service Providers (MSPs) involves diversifying service offerings. This session delves into the necessity of integrating IoT services such as security cameras and content services like video to achieve success in the MSP landscape. Explore the market demands, customer expectations, and operational considerations for incorporating IoT and content services into your MSP portfolio. Gain insights into the potential benefits, challenges, and strategic approaches to effectively leveraging these services to enhance customer value and business growth. Whether you're expanding your service offerings or exploring new revenue streams, join us to understand the pivotal role of IoT and content services in evolving from ISPs to MSPs. | Tech Navigate the unique challenges of live sports streaming, where simultaneous high viewership demands place significant strain on networks. Unlike Video on Demand (VOD), live events can cause traffic spikes of up to 10-15 times normal levels, requiring robust network management strategies. This session explores the reasons behind these spikes, their implications for network infrastructure, and proactive measures to enhance network performance. Discover how to anticipate and prepare for increased bandwidth demands, optimize network capacity, and ensure seamless viewer experiences during major sports events. Whether you're an ISP, content provider, or network administrator, join us to learn essential strategies for effectively managing live sports streaming and maintaining network reliability. | Adv Tech In this session, delve into effective methods for listening to your network to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Discover tools and techniques for network monitoring that facilitate both reactive troubleshooting and proactive network planning. Learn how to gather baseline data and conduct top-notch analysis to diagnose chronic and acute issues related to latency and packet loss. Gain insights into leveraging monitoring tools to enhance network performance, mitigate issues proactively, and improve overall user experience. Whether you're an IT professional, network engineer, or business owner, join us to learn essential skills for maintaining a robust and responsive network infrastructure. | Vendor | Reg Come hear our Government Affairs team update you about the latest legislative developments on Capitol Hill. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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11:15 AM - 11:45 AM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
11:45 AM - 12:45 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12:45 PM - 2:30 PM | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM | Reg How state broadband offices implement the NTIA BEAD program is not the only state issue that WISPA members should know. There are many other state policies that could help or impede your broadband business | Mar/Sales Explore the essential elements of creating a compelling brand identity that stands out in the market, with a focus on differentiation strategies. Learn how to define and implement the "Laws of Exposure" for your organization, including consistent use of colors, fonts, tags, and catchphrases to reinforce brand identity and avoid dilution. Understand the importance of consistency across all platforms and communications to build trust and recognition among your audience. Gain practical insights and strategies to develop a strong and cohesive brand identity that resonates with customers and enhances your organization's market presence. Whether you're establishing a new brand or revitalizing an existing one, join us to strengthen your understanding of brand building fundamentals. | Tech Explore how Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) can leverage IoT to unlock opportunities in both rural and urban environments. Discover the transformative potential of LoRa (Long Range) and IoT technologies in driving solutions across industrial, municipal, and utility sectors. Gain insights into the latest IoT trends and the implications of emerging standards like Matter for operator-managed Smart Homes. Learn how WISPs can play a crucial role in providing connectivity infrastructure for IoT deployments, enhancing efficiency, and enabling smart city initiatives. Whether you're exploring new business opportunities or expanding your service offerings, join us to explore the intersection of WISPs and IoT and its impact on future connectivity solutions. | HR Delve into the critical topic of addressing mental health challenges in the workplace in this insightful session. Explore the increasing prevalence of mental health issues among employees and discover effective strategies to support their well-being. Learn about legal requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and best practices for implementing supportive policies and programs. Gain insights into innovative approaches and resources available to promote mental wellness and create a healthier, more productive work environment. Whether you're a manager, HR professional, or business owner, join us to gain practical knowledge and tools to make a positive impact on your team's mental health and overall organizational success. | Fiber Explore innovative approaches to fiber network deployment that incorporate hybrid solutions to optimize efficiency and reduce costs. This session challenges the notion that fiber networks must be exclusively fiber by advocating for the strategic use of various technologies and methodologies. Learn how integrating alternative tools and solutions can accelerate deployment times and enable earlier revenue capture from customers. Gain insights into hybrid network architectures, such as fiber combined with wireless or other technologies, to achieve cost-effective and scalable network solutions. Whether you're a network engineer, ISP, or telecommunications professional, join us to discover practical strategies for maximizing the effectiveness of your fiber network deployments. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2:30 PM - 4:30 PM | Bis Gain valuable insights into managing a network from a business perspective in this crucial session. Understand the financial implications of network outages and poor in-home Wi-Fi experiences for your organization. Learn how to quantify the costs associated with downtime and customer dissatisfaction, emphasizing the real impact on revenue and brand reputation. Explore strategic focus areas for network management, including prioritizing reliability, optimizing customer experience, and allocating resources effectively. Discover best practices for collaborating with your Network Operations Center (NOC) team, setting expectations, and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Whether you're a network executive, business owner, or IT manager, join us to enhance your understanding of managing the network end-to-end and driving business success through efficient network operations. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM | Vendor Join us for an informative session where you'll discover how to leverage Winncom Technologies' BEAD Program to enhance your chances of securing BEAD funding. Our program offers comprehensive support, including application consultation, fiber and wireless design assistance, grant writing services, updates on state funding timelines, and financial support services. Experts from Nokia will also be presenting their cutting-edge fiber broadband solution, "Network in a Box," which includes XGS-PON, IP routing, BNG, and in-home Wi-Fi. Notably, Nokia is the only manufacturer that self-certifies fiber products according to NTIA guidelines, and they can provide the necessary certification letters for your BEAD applications. As most states advance with pre-qualification and complete their Volume 2 submissions, now is the time to begin your BEAD journey. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into how Winncom Technologies and Nokia can support you throughout the BEAD application process while providing the essential products for your business growth.
All session attendees will be eligible to enter a prize drawing to win Nokia equipment! Speakers: Nathan Kim, Business Dev & BEAD - Winncom Kyle Barnes, VP Engineering – Winncom Amit Patel, Sales Director US - Nokia Fayyaz Patwa, VP Sales Engineering – Nokia
Introductions and closing remarks: Benton Cook, Business Development - Winncom Mike Cook, VP Business Development – Winncom
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4:00 PM - 5:00 PM | HR Join our panel of HR experts for an in-depth exploration of essential considerations in hiring practices, disciplinary procedures, salary requirements, and employee categorization. This session covers everything you need to know about effectively managing human resources in your organization. Learn best practices for attracting and retaining talent, strategies for handling disciplinary issues with sensitivity and fairness, and guidelines for proper employee categorization (e.g., employees vs. contractors, salaried vs. hourly, exempt vs. non-exempt). Whether you're a business owner, HR professional, or manager, don't miss this opportunity to enhance your HR knowledge and skills. | Mar/Sales Learn essential strategies to enhance your online presence in this dynamic session. Discover the importance of your website as a digital storefront and its visual representation, coupled with effective SEO tactics to boost discoverability. Dive into selecting the right social media platforms for your audience, utilizing Meta Business Suite features, and leveraging tools like Canva and AI platforms with practical demonstrations. Ensure consistency in branding across all marketing channels, emphasizing the impact of unified logos, tags, hours, address, and phone numbers on credibility. Explore the nuances of paid versus organic online strategies to maximize engagement and reach. Whether you're new to digital marketing or seeking to refine your approach, join us to elevate your digital mastery and achieve lasting online success. | Vendor | Reg WISPA spearheaded many policy efforts before the FCC and other agencies. Hear experts discuss many lessons learned. | Fiber Explore strategies to secure funding for fiber outside plant (OSP) projects, which are known for their excellent Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) despite initial high costs. This session covers essential aspects of capital acquisition, including traditional financing options such as loans and grants, as well as innovative approaches like public-private partnerships (PPP) and community funding initiatives. Learn about the financial benefits of fiber networks and how to articulate these advantages to potential investors or stakeholders. Gain insights into preparing a compelling business case, navigating regulatory considerations, and leveraging government incentives or subsidies for infrastructure development. Whether you're planning a new OSP project or expanding existing infrastructure, join us to discover effective funding strategies that align with your project goals and financial objectives. | Tech Navigating customer support challenges in hybrid networks requires strategic approaches to ensure timely and effective resolutions. This session addresses the complexities of supporting subscribers across diverse access technologies and vendors, which can lead to prolonged troubleshooting and customer dissatisfaction. Learn strategies to streamline support processes, reduce call volumes, and accelerate issue resolution to maintain high customer satisfaction. Explore methods for implementing a centralized view of subscribers and network operations, enhancing visibility and efficiency in troubleshooting. Gain insights into proactive measures to minimize escalations, prevent costly truck rolls, and reduce churn. Whether you're a network operator, support team member, or manager, join us to optimize customer support in hybrid networks and foster lasting customer loyalty. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
5:00 PM - 6:45 PM |
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1:30 PM - 2:30 PM | Reg This panel will give you important updates about more FCC spectrum proceedings and NTIA's National Spectrum Strategy. | Tech Explore advanced solutions for achieving high-capacity wireless Point-to-Point (PtP) and Point-to-Multipoint (PtMP) connectivity in your networks. As demands for bandwidth increase, especially towards customers and between towers, this session dives into available options for delivering gigabit speeds to homes and supporting multiple gigabit connections to towers. Learn about cutting-edge technologies, including millimeter-wave systems, advanced modulation schemes, and spectrum utilization strategies to maximize throughput and efficiency. Gain insights into network design considerations, equipment selection, and deployment best practices to meet evolving bandwidth requirements effectively. Whether you're upgrading existing infrastructure or planning new deployments, join us to navigate the options available and optimize your network's capacity for future growth and performance. | Vendor | Mar/Sales Discover effective strategies for competing against industry giants as a smaller player in your market. Learn how to identify and leverage your competitive strengths in marketing, emphasizing customer service over speed and price. Explore the importance of creating nimble, customer-focused strategies that enable quick adaptation to market dynamics and customer needs. Understand the significance of personalized touches such as hand-written thank you cards, post-installation check-ins, and active social media engagement, which larger companies may overlook. Gain insights into sustainable approaches to differentiate your business and build customer loyalty in a competitive landscape dominated by national brands. Whether you're an entrepreneur, marketer, or business owner, join us to learn how to thrive as David against the Goliaths in your industry. | Bis Explore effective strategies for collaborating with tribes and nonprofit organizations to leverage available funding opportunities. This session focuses on understanding the funding landscape specific to tribes and nonprofits, including grants, partnerships, and government initiatives. Learn how to navigate the complexities of funding applications, compliance requirements, and reporting expectations unique to these organizations. Gain insights into building productive partnerships that align with organizational missions and community priorities. Whether you're a government agency, private sector entity, or community organization, join us to explore practical approaches for maximizing funding opportunities and fostering impactful collaborations with tribes and nonprofits. | HR Transitioning from a startup with limited subscribers to a mature company requires evolving strategies and insights. Join industry leaders from some of the largest Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) as they share invaluable lessons and experiences. Explore critical topics including talent acquisition and retention strategies, effective training programs, optimizing benefits packages, fundraising tactics, managing cash flow, and navigating the challenges of rapid growth. Gain practical advice and real-world perspectives on scaling operations, building organizational resilience, and maintaining competitive advantage in the evolving market landscape. Whether you're navigating growth challenges or planning for expansion, don't miss this opportunity to learn from industry experts who have successfully navigated the journey from startup to industry leader. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1:30 PM - 3:45 PM | Fiber In the event of a customer reporting offline issues with fiber connectivity, knowing where to start is crucial for efficient troubleshooting. This session focuses on the initial steps and key considerations when addressing fiber connectivity problems. Learn practical methodologies to prioritize and diagnose common issues effectively, ensuring prompt resolution and minimizing downtime. Gain insights into identifying potential points of failure such as equipment, connections, or environmental factors, and learn how to perform preliminary checks to isolate the root cause. Whether you're a technician, network engineer, or ISP operator, join us to enhance your troubleshooting skills and improve customer satisfaction through swift and effective fiber network diagnostics. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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2:45 PM - 3:45 PM | Reg Learn how overturning digital discrimination, Title II reclassification of broadband, and data breach rules can help you grow your business. | Vendor | HR Unlock the secrets to building a robust team that cultivates a culture of innovation and drives sustained growth. This session explores strategic approaches to intentionally design and nurture a positive organizational culture. Learn how to define and articulate your company's core values and vision to inspire and align your team towards common goals. Discover effective methods to foster creativity, encourage collaboration, and empower team members to contribute innovative ideas. Gain insights into implementing weekly strategies to reinforce your organizational vision and promote a culture of continuous improvement. Whether you're a leader, manager, or entrepreneur, join us to learn practical techniques for building a high-performing team that thrives on innovation and drives your company's competitive edge in the market. | Tech Discover essential best practices for radio installation in telecommunications during this focused session. Learn how to conduct effective site surveys, optimize antenna placement with precise downtilt angles, and secure radios and antennas using industry-standard techniques. Gain insights into cable management strategies to preserve signal integrity and ensure reliable network performance. Understand the importance of rigorous testing, compliance with regulations, and comprehensive documentation for successful installations. Whether you're a technician, engineer, or manager, join us to streamline your installation processes and enhance operational efficiency in telecommunications projects. | Mar/Sales Gain insights into effectively targeting and understanding your audience by leveraging demographic data and customer personas. This session emphasizes the importance of analyzing your target market—potentially aligned with your current customer base—to tailor marketing strategies for maximum impact. Learn how to identify and differentiate demographics such as tweens, gamers, remote workers, empty nesters, retirees, students, and more to develop targeted marketing personas. Discover how to customize messaging, channels, and campaigns to resonate with specific audience segments, enhancing engagement and conversion rates. Whether you're a marketer, business owner, or strategist, join us to explore practical techniques for refining your customer focus and optimizing marketing efforts across diverse demographics. | Bis Join us for an essential session on scaling your business through effective systems and processes. Explore how strategic implementation of robust systems and streamlined processes can drive growth and enhance operational efficiency. Learn practical insights into identifying scalable opportunities within your organization, optimizing workflows, and leveraging technology to automate routine tasks. Gain strategies for establishing scalable frameworks that support sustainable growth and adaptability in a competitive market. Whether you're an entrepreneur, manager, or business owner, this session equips you with the tools and knowledge to successfully navigate the challenges of scaling your business. |