Spectrum auctions, net neutrality and show expansion
ATLANTA – RCR Wireless News caught up with Competitive Carriers Association President and CEO Steve Berry on the show floor of this week’s Global Expo event in Atlanta. Berry touched on a number of topics impacting the organization and its members, as well as future plans for events.
Since CCA’s last event in September, the mobile telecom space has witnessed a record-breaking spectrum auction, postponement of the highly anticipated 600 MHz incentive auction and the release of the Federal Communications Commission’s net neutrality Report and Order.
Berry noted the AWS-3 auction showed the tremendous demand for wireless spectrum, and that CCA takes into account the need for a broader pool of winning bidders for its upcoming 600 MHz auction. Berry also provided additional insight into the organization’s reaction to the net neutrality order, which is expected to see significant legal challenges, though at this point not from CCA.
Berry noted CCA events have proven so successful that beginning with its annual convention currently scheduled for Oct. 6-9, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., it will be housing its shows at convention centers rather than hotel convention rooms.
Berry also touched on CCA’s plans to change the focus of its spring event beginning in 2016. The organization announced last week that the Global Expo would be renamed Mobile Carriers Show, with a focus on mobile carriers, highlighting “smart strategies, innovations and business opportunities in the ever-evolving industry,” with plans for vendors to stress revenue-generating opportunities for CCA’s members.
RWA, CTIA partnership
CCA could begin seeing some competition in the rural carrier market, as the Rural Wireless Association recently announced plans to partner with trade organization CTIA at its upcoming Super Mobility 2015 show scheduled for Sept. 9-11, in Las Vegas. RWA said its involvement would include a reception and educational sessions designed to provide a small-carrier view on the mobile space.
RWA rebranded itself in 2013 from its former Rural Telecommunications Group moniker in a move the organization said better aligned with its “mission and focus.” The organization said it serves rural wireless carriers with fewer than 100,000 subscribers, with a strong focus on wireline-backed entities.
Bored? Why not follow me on Twitter
