Chad Rupe

Chad Rupe’s commitment to helping rural Americans thrive is not only his role as General Manager, it’s his passion. From tackling broadband infrastructure deficiencies to administering crucial funding for rural utilities, Rupe’s at the forefront of ensuring the underserved and unserved have access to quality communications and emerging technology.

Rupe most recently directed the State of Montana’s Broadband Program, implementing $275m in grants for rural broadband infrastructure. He also served as Rural Utilities Service (RUS) Administrator for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). As a presidential appointee, Rupe ran the agency responsible for $18b in funding to rural telecommunications, electric and water utilities. Prior to becoming RUS administrator, he served as the USDA Rural Development State Director assisting state government with deploying broadband to rural Wyoming. Additionally, Rupe has a substantial business background. He spent more than 13-years in the banking industry, ultimately becoming market president for a community-based agriculture bank in central Nebraska.

Rupe received his Bachelor of Science from the United States Military Academy at West Point and his MBA from the University of Phoenix. After West Point, he served as a Commissioned Officer with the United States Army for six years, earning numerous service and commendation medals.