NCET Biz Tips: Bringing Digital Equity to Nevadans

Stretching from the majestic northern Ruby Mountains to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe to the beautiful vastness of the Mojave Desert in the south, Nevada’s captivating landscape has historically posed geographical challenges to communication, travel and commerce. In the digital age, broadband connectivity has transcended geographical constraints.

The internet has redefined what it means to be connected, serving as a gateway not only for communication but also to participation in society, democracy, and the economy of the 21st century. The internet fosters access, inclusion, and progress. Students, youth, and adults access unparalleled educational resources. Parents engage in global work collaboration. Businesses reach customers worldwide. Medical consultations and services span geographical boundaries, enhancing healthcare access.

Impeding access to these transformative digital tools is the digital divide.

As such, Brian Mitchell is tasked with directing the planning, development and expansion of broadband infrastructure in Nevada – known as the High Speed Nevada (HSNV) Initiative. Mitchell’s three-phase digital equity plan focuses on connecting the “middle mile network” to improve residential and business connectivity in unserved and underserved communities spanning 2,500 miles.

During the Wednesday, Oct. 23, NCET Biz Bite luncheon Mitchell will cover:

• An overview of the HSNV Initiative

• The three phases of HSNV, and where we stand within those phases

• Funding

• Timelines and execution

• Navigating the national, statewide, and community politics of such an endeavor

Sign up for NCET’s Biz Bite luncheon on Wednesday, Oct. 23 at The Par by Parlay 6 in Midtown. Networking starts at 11 a.m., Mitchell’s presentation starts at noon.

The Par by Parlay 6 Brewing Company is located in midtown. Free parking is accessible in the lot immediately south of Thai Chili on the east side of South Virginia Street. Street parking is also available.

NCET is a member-supported nonprofit organization that produces educational and networking events to help people explore business and technology.
Brian Mitchell leads Nevada’s STEM education and workforce development programs as the Director of the Governor’s Office of Science, Innovation and Technology. In this role, Brian manages a $14 million workforce development grant program and has funded the creation of 52 new STEM postsecondary training programs in high-demand career fields over the last four years. Brian has also developed programs that create pathways from high school to college, help elementary teachers integrate engineering design into daily classroom instruction, and provide strategic planning assistance to aspiring STEM schools. Passionate about equity, Brian is currently collaborating with stakeholders to develop new strategies to increase recruitment, retention, and completion rates of underrepresented students in postsecondary STEM programs. Brian also oversees the development and expansion of broadband infrastructure in Nevada, with a focus on connecting rural schools and health clinics. Prior to his appointment, Mr. Mitchell served as an education advisor to the Governor during Nevada’s 2015 legislative session when the Governor and Legislature made a $450 million investment in education and workforce development. Prior, Mr. Mitchell served as a senior advisor in Nevada’s Washington DC office, representing the State to Congress and the executive branch on education, workforce, healthcare, and homeland security issues. When not geeking out on policy, you can probably find Brian exploring a National Park with his wife and four kids.