Presents:
Two Years After Hurricane Helene: Connectivity Lessons for When Disaster Strikes
EVENT DESCRIPTION
Join the Connect Everyone Coalition (CEC) for a virtual panel discussion on how low Earth orbit (LEO) broadband and other connectivity innovations can improve safety, communication and disaster response.
As a follow up to the CEC’s Connected Outdoors: Safety and Innovation for America’s Adventurers webinar in July, this webinar will feature North Carolina State Representative Blair Eddins on the eve of the two-year anniversary of the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. Rep. Blair Eddins is a member of the North Carolina General Assembly’s House Select Committee on Helene Recovery. Having experienced the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene firsthand, Rep. Eddins understands the importance of reliable connectivity for everyone, everywhere, as he has helped lead recovery efforts to assist hurricane victims.
This conversation will look at the impact of LEO technology on disaster response and the importance of modernized policies to bring connectivity to everyone, everywhere, particularly noting the role of broadband infrastructure across North Carolina and Virginia.
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear how connectivity innovation is helping Americans stay connected when it matters most.
This virtual event is open to the press.
Discussion topics will include…
- How LEO satellite connectivity transforms emergency response when other internet offerings are unavailable, including real-world remarks from those who experienced the impact of Hurricane Helene.
- The role of reliable connectivity to provide resiliency and redundancy.
- The importance of modernized policies to bring LEO technology and broadband access to everyone, everywhere.
FEATURING OPENING REMARKS FROM CONGRESSMAN MORGAN GRIFFITH (VA-09).
PANEL PARTICIPANTS
Blair Eddins
North Carolina State Representative, HD-94
Rep. Blair Eddins has served in the North Carolina House of Representatives since 2024. As a representative, Eddins serves as a member on the North Carolina General Assembly’s House Select Committee on Helene Recovery. With a background in the agriculture industry, Eddins champions economic growth, support local businesses and encourages innovation. Active in his local community, Eddins experienced firsthand the devastation brought about by Hurricane Helene, and he understands the importance of reliable connectivity for all North Carolinians.
ABOUT THE CONNECT EVERYONE COALITION
The Connect Everyone Coalition is a broad-based coalition of more than 120 members committed to educating the public and policymakers on the importance of using every tool in our connectivity toolbox to provide fast, affordable broadband access to everyone.