Meet Robert Osborn

Division: Communications Division

CPUC Tenure: 13.5 years

Headquarters: Sacramento

CPUC Role: As the Director of Broadband Consumer Programs and Carrier Oversight, I manage three branches in the Communications Division that oversee five consumer programs aimed at providing safe, reliable, and affordable communications services to Californians as well as budget, HR, contracts, licensing, and service quality.

What drew you to work here originally?
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.

What is the most rewarding aspect of working at the CPUC?
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.

What’s one project you’ve worked on that you’re especially proud of and why?
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.

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you? 
I majored in Chinese Studies and passed the Foreign Service Language Exam in both Mandarin Chinese and Japanese after returning from the Japan Exchange Teaching Program and studying at the graduate level in San Diego.

What’s one hobby or activity you really enjoy outside of work? 
I practice six days a week with a master’s rowing team at River City Rowing Club in West Sacramento. Every year, the highlight is to be selected to represent the club at the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston in October.

Do you have a favorite book, podcast, or show you recommend. 
The Empire podcast with Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. 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.