A connector assembly includes a first side connector and a second side connector. The first side connector includes a first protective housing, a first inductor including a first end face, and a first physical connector element. The second side connector includes a second protective housing, a second inductor including a second face, and a second physical connector element. The second physical connector element is engaged with the first physical connector element and physically connects the first side connector to the second side connector such that the first end face and the second end face are adjacent. The first inductor and the second inductor are axially spaced apart. The first inductor and the second inductor form an inductive telemetry connection between the first side connector and the second side connector.