Communication grad connects the globe

When Brian Moon ’00 (communication) says he works in telecommunications, people often think of old-fashioned phone lines and dial-up internet. However, he explains, the industry helps drive innovation in digital infrastructure across the globe, connecting communities and opening new opportunities in sectors like healthcare, education, and business.

As the CEO of Pacific Telecommunications Council (PTC), Moon is proud to help foster community in an industry that makes a tangible impact.

“Whether you call it technology, telecommunication, or digital infrastructure, it’s making the world a better place by connecting as many people as possible,” said Moon.

PTC is a not-for-profit member organization based in Honolulu that brings together global leaders in information and communication technologies. Its roots in Hawai`i date back 48 years. PTC’s founders convened a meeting of business and government officials to pitch Hawai`i and the Pacific Rim as strategic connection points between North America and Asia.

“Our founders started what PTC is widely known for now. We own and produce, arguably, the most important digital infrastructure conference in the world.”

Though its founding focus was on the Pacific Rim region, the organization now represents nearly 500 members globally.

Moon says the annual PTC conference is the highlight of his year. The 2025 conference welcomed over 9,000 C-level executives, technologists, thought leaders, investors, researchers, and academics from more than 80 countries and territories.

Prior to PTC, Moon held leadership positions in several industries, including tech, healthcare, and even hospitality. The common thread between his current and previous roles is that he acts as a relationship builder, facilitating connections among working professionals. Moon credits his skills—and his ability to hop between industries—to RIT.

Moon worked for Reporter Magazine, played volleyball, and enjoyed extending his network through co-ops. RIT’s Department of Communication, he says, offered a close-knit community of professors and peers with whom he continues to stay in touch. He also took marketing courses in Saunders College of Business to round out his skills.

“The vast variety of courses and experiences I had at RIT helped build a good foundation for me to enter the workplace and thrive,” he said.

Much of Moon’s CEO duties involve direct communication with members and industry stakeholders. Because of this, he often reflects on the value the industry provides for communities. A meeting in the Solomon Islands, where they discussed the future of digital infrastructure in the region, was particularly eye-opening.

“We were talking about getting people consistent connections to make phone calls, send text messages, and have reliable internet access. Many take these things for granted,” he said. “It humbles me to see there are parts of the world that aren’t connected yet.”

He added, “There is a lot of work to be done in our industry, and I’m honored to be a part of it.”