Robert Osborn, Director of Broadband Consumer Programs and Carrier Oversight at the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), has worked at the organization for over 13 years. Based in Sacramento, Osborn leads three branches within the Communications Division, overseeing five consumer programs. These programs focus on providing safe, reliable, and affordable communications services to Californians, as well as managing budget, human resources, contracts, licensing, and service quality.
Osborn transitioned to the CPUC after two decades in the private telecommunications sector. He said, “I worked in the private sector in telecommunications for two decades and wanted to work for an organization that is helping people and making a lasting difference.”
He highlighted the diversity at the CPUC as one of the most rewarding aspects of his work. “The CPUC is incredibly diverse. I am constantly learning about people’s life experiences, travels, hobbies, and languages they speak in addition to English. I love to learn languages and about other languages and cultures,” Osborn said.
One project Osborn is particularly proud of is the creation of a new section within the CPUC Communications Division dedicated to assisting the public, local governments, and businesses with broadband grant applications. “Several years back, we created a new CPUC Communications section and function charged with helping the public, local governments, and businesses navigate the complicated process of applying for broadband grants. They are called ‘caseworkers,’ and they’ve filled a longstanding need to better connect policy and programs to the public,” he explained.
Osborn has a background in Chinese Studies and has passed language exams in both Mandarin Chinese and Japanese, following experiences with the Japan Exchange Teaching Program and graduate studies in San Diego. Outside of work, he is an active member of the River City Rowing Club in West Sacramento, practicing with a master’s rowing team six days a week. Each year, he aims to represent his club at the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston.
For those interested in podcasts, Osborn recommends “The Empire podcast with Anita Anand and William Dalrymple.” He noted, “I’ve listened to over 100 episodes. Anita is based in London, and William is in New Delhi. They invite authors to talk about all empires throughout human history.”
