Connect (X) Day 1 | Networking, Education, and Regulation Insights

Read about the Monday Connect (X) highlights including: Emerging Wireless Leaders, the Women in Leadership Symposium, the State Broadband Leaders Summit, the Infrastructure Developers Forum, the Professional Services Forum, and the Latest News from Connect (X)!

Monday was full of educational and networking opportunities as well as some fun in the sun for Connect (X) golfers.
WIA’s Telecom Trailblazers engaged 50 students from two area high schools at their event, called

Empowering the Next Generation of Telecom Leaders

• WWLF leaders shared their personal connections to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
• Students also explored how LinkedIn differs from other platforms they commonly use (e.g., TikTok, Snapchat) and the fundamentals of building a professional profile. The session also highlighted the importance of digital safety.
• Three other modules rounded out the learning: AI and Emerging Technologies; Public Speaking and Confidence Building; and Networking 101.

Telecom Trailblazers is an initiative launched by WIA and WWLF to encourage STEM learning, teach young women about digital infrastructure and inspire them to pursue careers in telecommunications.

Women in Leadership Symposium

Women in Leadership Symposium hosted by WWLF was a half-day program that discussed how women can build essential skills and confidence to effectively communicate their value, drive innovation, and build successful relationships in a competitive business landscape.

TIRAP Advisory Board

The TIRAP Advisory Board met in person at Connect (X) to provide industry expertise, knowledge of occupational and operational needs and practices, advice, and guidance to WIA leadership and staff on the administration of the Telecommunications Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program.

State Broadband Leaders Summit

The State Broadband Leaders Summit engaged broadband leaders and other stakeholders committed to providing internet for all, including the latest on BEAD funding and the strategies, challenges, and opportunities involved in delivering universal connectivity across urban, rural, and underserved communities.

Infrastructure Developers Forum

The Infrastructure Developers Forum heard about international tower builds, U.S. carrier capex rollout plans for 2025 and beyond and the cell site of the future. Cell site needs for the future include vertical real estate, reliable and reasonable utility power, ground space that is accessible 24/7, and both lit and dark fiber, among other things.

Professional Services Forum

The Professional Services Forum met for the second time in person to learn about the state of the digital infrastructure market, WIA’s priorities in 2025 and work on the Hill and in Congress. Both IDF and PSF were given a presentation on the impact of Satellite on the Terrestrial wireless ecosystem.