Robert Osborn, Director of Broadband Consumer Programs and Carrier Oversight at the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), has worked in the Communications Division for over 13 years. Based in Sacramento, Osborn manages three branches that oversee five consumer programs designed to provide safe, reliable, and affordable communications services to Californians. His responsibilities also include budget, human resources, contracts, licensing, and service quality.
Osborn, who spent two decades in the private telecommunications sector, explained his motivation for joining the CPUC: “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 of Osborn’s notable achievements at the CPUC was establishing a new Communications section and function several years ago. This team helps the public, local governments, and businesses navigate the 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,” Osborn said.
Osborn’s background includes a major in Chinese Studies, and he has passed the Foreign Service Language Exam in both Mandarin Chinese and Japanese. He previously participated in the Japan Exchange Teaching Program and completed graduate studies in San Diego.
Outside of work, Osborn is an active member of the River City Rowing Club in West Sacramento, practicing six days a week. He noted that being selected to represent his club at the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston each October is an annual highlight.
Osborn also recommended “The Empire podcast with Anita Anand and William Dalrymple,” stating, “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.”
