Powering the Next Era of Global Connectivity

On Tuesday, January 21, 2025, the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Honolulu (Tapa Tower) will once again become the center of groundbreaking discussions as PTC’25 Center Stage Day Two kicks off from 9:00am to noon. Building on the energy of Day One, the sessions will bring together policymakers, C-Suite industry leaders, and innovators to tackle the most critical challenges and opportunities in global digital infrastructure.

The morning will open with remarks by Hawai’i Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke, who will share views on the island’s strategic role in global telecommunications infrastructure.

The first panel discussion will explore how artificial intelligence and cloud computing are driving the renewed importance of fiber networks. With demand growing in both urban hubs and remote areas, service providers are faced with new challenges, yet more opportunities to innovate.

“The resurgence of fiber is being driven by its ability to handle the massive data demands of AI and cloud services,” said Bill Barney, President and Chair, PTC. “It’s not just about speed—it’s about scalability, reliability, and reaching the corners of the world that were once out of reach.”

Whether it’s installing fiber in dense urban centers or overcoming logistical barriers in hard-to-reach locations, panelists will share insights into how fiber is evolving to meet today’s demands while setting the foundation for tomorrow.

The morning will also feature a deep dive into the complexities of large-scale infrastructure projects. Fifteen years after the groundbreaking Unity Pacific cable project, mega-projects have become more common, requiring collaboration between carriers, hyperscalers, and governments to expand connectivity.

“These projects succeed when companies and governments align their goals. Public-private partnerships are no longer optional—they’re the key to driving innovation and overcoming the complexities of modern infrastructure investments,” said Barney as he emphasized the importance of collaboration.

Panelists will examine how these models can be replicated along with the evolving role of governments as regulators, promoters, and investors shaping the digital future.

Emerging markets are often seen as the next frontier for AI deployment, offering the promise of lower operational costs. However, these regions also come with significant challenges, including limited network infrastructure and unstable regulatory environments.

The final session will shift focus to emerging markets, often seen as the next frontier for AI deployment. While these regions offer enticing opportunities at lower costs, they also come with major hurdles, including limited network infrastructure and unpredictable regulatory environments.

This session will explore the complexities that data operators face when entering these markets. From steering through uncertain regulatory climates to managing competition in critical sectors like power and networking, panelists will share strategies for overcoming major obstacles. “Success in these regions demands more than just financial investment, it requires a deep understanding of local dynamics and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing conditions,” Barney added.

PTC’25 Center Stage Day Two promises to deliver critical insights into the future of telecommunications, connectivity, and the global digital ecosystem. Whether it’s the importance of fiber, the challenges of mega-projects, or the opportunities in emerging markets, these discussions will help shape the strategies of leaders across the industry.

For more details and the list of featured speakers for each session, be sure to visit the PTC’25 Agenda page.

Authored by →

Lorain Wong