The broadband industry is preparing to bid farewell to one of its most influential leaders. Michael Powell’s retirement from NCTA – The Internet and Television Association caps a distinguished tenure marked by revolutionary policy innovation and unwavering commitment to increasing access and advancing connectivity for all Americans — a transformative chapter that paves the way for continued progress.
As the former chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Michael brought a unique perspective to policy shifts in the industry. Over the past 15 years as president and CEO of NCTA, he has advocated for policies that support innovation, helping to shape the future of connectivity.
Michael announced his retirement in February. This week, NCTA announced the appointment of his successor, former U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner, who represented Colorado in the Senate from 2015 to 2021 and in the U.S. House from 2011 to 2015. He will officially join the association later this month.
Champion of Broadband Access and Innovation
Michael has been called a champion of the industry by many, but his vision for the future of connectivity extends far beyond traditional broadband infrastructure.
He has been a steadfast industry ally throughout his career, first as FCC chairman, fighting battles over Title II broadband regulations, and later as president and CEO of NCTA, where he has led some of the most significant efforts toward seamless connectivity through the 10G initiative.
Michael’s advocacy for the 10G initiative — which enables widespread seamless connectivity and enables technologies that will fundamentally change how we live, work, learn and play — exemplifies his commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in broadband technology. Advocating for improved speed, access and reliability for all, Michael has described 10G as “not the picture, (but the) canvas on which the demands of our imagination will be built,” underscoring the massive opportunities for innovation such a network can offer.
His ability to recognize future connectivity needs and champion the policies to make them reality has been invaluable. When the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the need for reliable, secure and fast connectivity, the broadband industry showed it was not only ready but performed exceptionally well. Michael’s efforts and contributions to the 10G initiative helped move us forward into the connectivity that we know today and set the stage for the innovations that will drive our future.
His work with the initiative is foundational to the Technology Vision for the future of the industry, the next generation of connectivity innovation.
Above and at top: Michael Powell speaks with CableLabs President and CEO Phil McKinney during a general session at SCTE TechExpo in 2023.
Spectrum Leadership and Wi-Fi Advocacy
Michael’s tireless advocacy for unlicensed spectrum and innovative solutions to unlock these wireless resources has been instrumental in shaping the industry’s future. His support for spectrum sharing solutions like Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) has increased access to critical spectrum resources, enabling additional mobile capacity to enhance consumer choice in mobile services while extending high-speed internet access to Americans in rural and underserved areas.
Earlier this year, Michael testified before the House Energy & Commerce Committee, advocating for a more comprehensive approach to spectrum management and emphasizing its essential role in maintaining America’s economic and technological leadership. He argued that efficient spectrum use is fundamental to the country’s competitive advantage in the global marketplace.
Michael’s advocacy stems from his conviction that “Wi-Fi is more than just convenience — it’s a game-changer for our economy and innovation.”
The CableLabs Connection
For many years, Michael has served as a non-voting member of the board of directors at CableLabs. Michael’s policy work and vision for “permissionless innovation” — the idea that individuals and companies should be able to experiment and innovate with new technologies without extensive regulatory barriers — is a philosophy that has guided much of his work and helped create an environment where breakthrough technologies can flourish.
CableLabs President and CEO Phil McKinney reflects on Michael’s impact:
“We at CableLabs are immensely grateful for Michael’s leadership and advocacy. He has certainly contributed to our ability to innovate and build the networks of the future.
“He has been a guiding light on policy in the broadband industry and has brought us to where we are today. Michael has an uncanny ability to balance competing interests, promote innovation and navigate complex government and policy issues.
“The foundations he has laid will continue to benefit all of us for years to come. We’re all stronger, more innovative and better positioned for the future because of his efforts.”
Michael — who was inducted into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame in 2016 and the Cable Hall of Fame in 2022 — leaves a legacy of impact that will continue to position America as an economic and technology leader far into the future. CableLabs is grateful for his efforts and wishes him success and happiness in his well-deserved retirement.