Welcome to another insightful episode of The Association 100 podcast. In this engaging discussion, we’re joined by Ellen Savage, Senior Director of Membership at the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA). With a storied career in the association space, Ellen shares her path to TIA and the organization’s ambitious Broadband Nation program, aimed at addressing America’s digital divide.
Key Highlights:
- Career Journey: Ellen traces her journey from her early days in the tech industry to pivotal roles at the Consumer Technology Association and Manufactured Housing Institute, leading up to her impactful work just underway at TIA.
- Broadband Nation: Tackling the challenge of reliable internet access, TIA’s Broadband Nation program stands out as a concerted effort to ensure broadband for all, highlighting the critical need for a skilled workforce to achieve this goal.
- Workforce Development: With over $42 billion earmarked by Congress for broadband expansion, Ellen emphasizes the urgency of workforce development to meet the ambitious targets of deploying networks by the decade’s end.
- Innovative Partnerships: Ellen discusses TIA’s innovative collaborations, including a partnership with Questex to launch a jobs portal and expo, aiming to attract talent to the telecom industry.
- Navigating Change: From addressing workforce shortages to fostering state-level partnerships, Ellen offers a deep dive into TIA’s strategies for overcoming industry challenges and shaping a more connected future.
Join us as Ellen Savage provides a compelling look into how TIA is not just navigating but leading the charge in telecommunications, ensuring that advancements in technology translate into tangible benefits for all. Her insights offer invaluable lessons for association professionals striving to make a difference in their sectors.
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Resources:
Learn more about TIA’s Broadband Nation program here: https://tiaonline.org/what-we-do/technology-programs/broadband-nation/
Stay tuned for more episodes exploring innovative solutions and leadership insights within the association world.
