At Connect (X) 2025 powered by WIA, the industry powering our digital world came together – all major carriers, tower company executives, fiber, cable, satellite, data center, government and enterprise clients from across the U.S. and beyond.
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During the event, Connect (X) welcomed thought leaders to the main stage. Watch the full video of the general sessions from Day 1 remarks from:
Day 1 speakers included:
- Patrick Halley, President and CEO, WIA
- Lynn Cox, SVP and CNO, Verizon
- Catherine Sbeglia, Managing Editor, RCR Wireless
- Scott Lewis, Vice President of Site Development and Next Generation Solutions, Phoenix Tower International
- Mike Irizarry, EVP & CTO, UScellular
- Jeff McSchooler, Executive Vice President, Wireless Engineering and Operations, Boost Mobile
- Sunil Patil, Vice President of Product Management, Qualcomm
Watch the full video of the general sessions from Day 2 remarks from:
Day 2 speakers included:
- Robert Walters, Senior Vice President, Access Construction and Engineering, AT&T
- Daryl Schoolar, Analyst and Director, Recon Analytics
Ron Bizick, President & CEO, Vertical Bridge - Brendan T. Cavanagh, President & CEO, SBA Communications
- Ed Farscht, CEO, Diamond Communications
- Cathy Piche, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Towers, Crown Castle
- Rich Rossi, Executive Vice President & President, U.S. Tower Division, American Tower Corporation
The breakout sessions at Connect (X) 2025 provided valuable insights into various aspects of broadband and wireless connectivity. Here are the key takeaways:
- Tower Development: The shift from headwinds to tailwinds in tower development was discussed, highlighting the positive momentum in the industry.
- State Broadband Deployment: States are anticipating changes but remain hopeful of continuing their plans for broadband expansion.
- Critical Connectivity: Wireless connectivity and coverage are essential in emergency situations for both those in need and first responders.
- AI in the Wireless Infrastructure Industry: Panelists explored how to optimize tower assets in the age of AI. Using digital twins and AI analysis to monitor and maintain sites leads to major time and cost savings for tower owners and operators.
- Broadband Investment Challenges: The push and pull between industry and states regarding broadband investment, including taxation and permitting challenges, were explored.
- Cross-Border Perspectives: Differences between operating in U.S. and international tower markets, including regulatory complexities and regional risks, were examined.
- Investing for the Future: Carrier capital investments are driving next-gen network capabilities like private 5G, edge computing, and AI-powered connectivity. Discussions touched on AI-driven infrastructure needs and ongoing capital deployment strategies.
- Infrastructure Needs for Spectrum: The need for more infrastructure to support spectrum above 6 GHz was highlighted, indicating years of construction ahead.
- In-Building Wireless Infrastructure: Enterprises are increasingly investing in their own in-building wireless infrastructure, moving away from carrier-funded models. This is partially driven by AI applications for enterprises.
- Evolution of 6G Networks: The development of 6G networks is driven by market demand and the needs of connected industries.
- Data Center Builds: Strategic planning for data center builds, including fiber deployment and power availability, was emphasized.
- Satellite Connectivity: Panelists discussed the evolving role of satellites in rural areas. Panels addressed misconceptions about satellite competition and emphasized the importance of long-term planning for landlords.
Did you miss out on the discussions at Connect (X) 2025? Save the date and register now for Connect (X) 2026, May 4-6 in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.
