

3185: 5G, Sustainability, and Infrastructure: A Conversation with Vantage Towers
Feb 19, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Christian Hillbrandt, CEO of Vantage Towers, shares his insights on shaping Europe's digital landscape with 86,000 telecom towers. He discusses the challenges and progress of 5G rollout, emphasizing the importance of sustainable infrastructure. Christian highlights the critical role of enhanced connectivity in transportation and the company's innovative approaches using shared resources and renewable energy. He also reflects on his 29-year career in telecom and the transformative power of mentorship, driving home the need for a collaborative future.
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Hillebrandt's Telecom Journey
- Christian Hillebrandt has 29 years of telecom experience, from T-Mobile and Ericsson to Samsung and Tillman Infrastructure.
- His kids jokingly said he "built that tower" on drives, showcasing his passion for network building.
Connectivity Opportunities
- Growing demand for mobile connectivity in residential, commercial, and transportation sectors presents opportunities for tower companies like Vantage Towers.
- They aim to provide reliable infrastructure and address underserved areas, particularly along transportation networks like the German railways.
5G Deployment Progress
- 5G coverage in Europe is expanding, but mid-band coverage, crucial for high-speed experiences, lags.
- Vantage Towers focuses on upgrading sites and building new ones to provide the necessary capacity for 5G's potential.