SCTE CEO Maria Popo Previews TechExpo 2024

This week marks the annual SCTE TechExpo, the industry's largest gathering, where leaders come together to showcase the latest broadband network technologies. SCTE works to advance the industry's technical workforce by offering its members training, resources, and more. In recent years, SCTE merged with CableLabs to combine the strengths of both organizations, and last year announced its new leadership in CEO Maria Popo, taking over after longtime CEO Mark Dzuban's retirement.

Before her first TechExpo as CEO, NCTA talked with Popo to get a preview of what she envisions for the future of the organization.

What have been the opportunities and challenges in your new position?

Coming in at a time when the industry is undergoing significant change has offered distinct opportunities and challenges. Since our start in 1969, the landscape has evolved considerably. Originally, SCTE addressed a crucial training gap, but now the organization navigates a field where most operators have established their own robust learning and development programs and numerous alternative training options exist.

As a result of these challenges, I've been focusing on SCTE's unique strengths:

1. Comprehensive Standards and Content: We maintain hundreds of ANSI standards and operational practices, plus over 1,000 hours of broadband learning content.
2. Active Community Network: Our organization includes nearly 60 chapters with active members from operators, vendors, and beyond.
3. Industry Leadership Expertise: Our governance features executives and senior technology professionals who guide our strategic decisions.
4. Technological Edge: As a subsidiary of CableLabs, we gain early access to emerging technology specifications.

With challenges also come opportunities. Rapid advancements in wired and wireless technologies, including the rollout of 10G and the impact of generative AI on technical skills, means that SCTE can establish itself as a pivotal resource for the industry. Capitalizing on what we do well and closing the gaps where we may not do so well is how we succeed and create value.

What are you most looking forward to at TechExpo this year?

This year's TechExpo is particularly exciting since we're showcasing groundbreaking advancements in technology. I'm most looking forward to the interactive sessions and live demonstrations that not only highlight the latest innovations but also offer hands-on experiences.

We also have a new AI Zone this year showcasing new innovations, including some from first-time SCTE exhibitors and speakers.

I'm also looking forward to all the networking and collaborations that always take place on the show floor and beyond!

What does SCTE have in store for the future?

As we move forward, SCTE is gearing up to redefine our role within the broadband industry, emphasizing strategic alignment and workforce development. Our ongoing efforts focus on enhancing our learning ecosystem and refining the way we engage with industry professionals at all levels.

Our future initiatives will leverage our extensive network to optimize educational offerings, aligning them more closely with the broader industry's evolving needs.

• This will involve a thoughtful recalibration of our course delivery, shifting a portion of our educational content to be facilitated through strategic partnerships.
• These collaborations are designed to enhance the value and reach of our certifications, backed by our ANSI accreditation, which is set to play a pivotal role in our strategy.

We are committed to revitalizing our SCTE chapters with enhanced digital solutions that will transform their impact and extend their outreach capabilities.

• We are working to foster more connected and efficient interactions within and across our chapter communities.
• We strive to expand the reach and effectiveness of our chapters, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of the broadband industry and continue to drive meaningful engagement across all levels.

As we refine our approach and forge new paths, SCTE remains dedicated to being a key resource for the industry, positioned at the forefront of innovation and education.

Be sure to follow along online for more updates coming out of this week's SCTE TechExpo, and if you're attending, don't miss NCTA's leaders speaking over the course of the TechExpo.

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