Christopher Mitchell
About Christopher Mitchell
Christopher Mitchell serves as the Director of the Community Broadband Networks Initiative at the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, where he focuses on enhancing Internet access through municipal and cooperative strategies. He has extensive experience in telecommunications policy and has contributed to various initiatives aimed at promoting public ownership and network neutrality.
Work at Institute for Local Self-Reliance
Christopher Mitchell serves as the Director of the Community Broadband Networks Initiative at the Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR). He has held this position since 2007, focusing on enhancing Internet access through municipal and cooperative strategies. His work involves providing technical assistance and information on environmentally sound economic development strategies. He is recognized as a leading national expert on community networks and Internet access, contributing to various initiatives aimed at improving local government policies.
Education and Expertise
Christopher Mitchell holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Computer Science from Macalester College, where he studied from 1997 to 2001. He furthered his education at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, earning a Master of Public Policy with a focus on Science, Technology, and Energy Policy from 2005 to 2007. His academic background supports his expertise in community broadband initiatives and public ownership models for ensuring universal access and network neutrality.
Background
Before joining ILSR, Christopher Mitchell worked at Half Price Books as a Shift Leader from 2001 to 2006. His experience in retail management provided him with skills in leadership and customer service. Following his tenure at Half Price Books, he transitioned to focus on community broadband and public policy, leveraging his educational background and professional experience to advocate for improved Internet access.
Achievements
Christopher Mitchell has been instrumental in several initiatives related to community broadband. He has been involved in the Telecommunications as Commons Initiative, which examines the benefits of public ownership in achieving universal Internet access and maintaining network neutrality. Additionally, he built MuniNetworks.org, an online resource that serves as a clearinghouse for local government policies regarding Internet access. He also hosts audio and video shows, including Community Broadband Bits and Connect This!, to disseminate information on broadband issues.