Tim Donovan, CEO of CCA, on Rural Wireless Advocacy, Capitol Hill, and AI Infrastructure | EP:15

In Episode 15 of Whiskey & Wireless, Ron Willett sits down with Tim Donovan, President and CEO of the Competitive Carriers Association (CCA), for a conversation about the forces shaping the future of rural wireless.Tim shares how CCA represents regional and rural carriers on Capitol Hill, advocating for policies that ensure smaller operators can compete, invest, and continue delivering connectivity across the United States. The discussion explores the policy battles behind spectrum, universal service, and why accurate coverage maps and strong industry advocacy remain critical for rural networks.The conversation also looks ahead at how AI infrastructure, satellite partnerships, and new technology demands could reshape the economics of connectivity. As data demand grows and infrastructure requirements expand, rural carriers may find themselves at the center of the next phase of wireless investment.This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at telecom policy, rural connectivity, and the evolving role of regional carriers in the wireless ecosystem.In this episode:Tim Donovan’s path to leading the Competitive Carriers AssociationHow CCA advocates for rural and regional carriers in WashingtonThe policy challenges facing rural wireless operatorsWhy accurate coverage maps matter for funding and deploymentAI infrastructure and the growing demand for network capacitySatellite partnerships and their potential impact on rural connectivityWhat the future may hold for regional wireless carriersIf you work in telecom, rural broadband, wireless policy, or carrier strategy, this episode provides valuable insight into the conversations shaping the industry.Learn more about CCA: https://competitivecarriers.orgSubscribe to Whiskey & Wireless for more conversations with leaders shaping the telecom industry.#podcast #whiskeypodcast