COUDERSPORT – Northern Pennsylvania Regional College is hosting a panel of representatives from various state and federal agencies to provide important information on the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program. This Rural Broadband Forum will take place in Coudersport on Monday, October 30 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Coudersport Consistory.

This event will discuss the BEAD Program as it relates to funding opportunities, infrastructure, and workforce development in underserved areas across the state. The BEAD Program is a nationwide initiative to help underserved communities have improved internet access and speed, cybersecurity, infrastructure, and related technological improvements. This nearly 50 billion-dollar program awarded 1.16 billion dollars to the state of Pennsylvania; with the Pennsylvania Broadband Authority now tasked with allocating this funding to various recipients around the state.

Local government leaders, business executives, and economic development agents from across the state are encouraged to attend this event to improve understanding of this government program and how to successfully receive funding to serve constituents and customers. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) will be leading the discussion and will talk about how this program can make a large-scale impact for residents throughout Pennsylvania.

NPRC’s Vice President of Workforce Development, Adam Johnson, commented about being a leader for local communities and the College as it relates to this opportunity. He shared, “It is important for us as a rural, regional institution to be strong advocates for our area. In this case, we are providing a forum that offers an opportunity for community leaders to interact with officials at all levels of government and industry representatives through dialogue and increased awareness. Our learning model relies heavily on technology and reliable connectivity. Ensuring expanded connectivity in each of our communities allows for an improved student experience and provides more equitable access to educational resources.”

To register for this event, head to NPRCEvents.org .