Robert Osborn, Director of Broadband Consumer Programs and Carrier Oversight at the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), has been with the organization for over 13 years. Based in Sacramento, Osborn manages three branches within the Communications Division. These branches oversee five consumer programs focused on ensuring Californians have access to safe, reliable, and affordable communications services. His responsibilities also include overseeing budget, human resources, contracts, licensing, and service quality.
Osborn previously worked in the private telecommunications sector for two decades before joining the CPUC. He explained his motivation for the career change: “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 of 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.
Reflecting on his achievements at the CPUC, Osborn noted his involvement in creating a new Communications section. “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 said.
Osborn shared some personal interests as well. He majored in Chinese Studies and has passed the Foreign Service Language Exam in both Mandarin Chinese and Japanese. He also participated in the Japan Exchange Teaching Program and pursued graduate studies in San Diego.
Outside of work, Osborn is an active member of a master’s rowing team at the River City Rowing Club in West Sacramento. He trains six days a week and values the opportunity to represent his club at the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston each October.
For those seeking recommendations, Osborn suggests the Empire podcast hosted by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple, noting, “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.”
