This year’s event in Nashville, TN brought together a record-breaking 5,000 attendees, continuing the trend of growth by about 1,000 participants each year. There was plenty of excitement and energy in the air as industry leaders, innovators and enthusiasts gathered to discuss the future of fiber optics.
The show was packed with insightful discussions and valuable presentations! BEAD was a recurring topic this year and it was noted that 26 states have been approved, with 30 to go. It’s no secret the industry has been slower than usual this year, but consider this the calm before the storm. Industry professionals expect 2025-2026 to be incredibly busy!
Another hot topic was not only getting every American connected to fiber by 2030, but also providing online education for underserved areas. Sure, it’s great to be connected to high speed internet, but it doesn’t do anyone any good if they don’t know how to utilize it to its full potential. Industry experts shared strategies and success stories about bridging the digital divide and providing equal educational opportunities for all.
Permitting was a critical discussion point as one of the ongoing challenges. Keynote speakers and breakout sessions talked about how permitting delays can drive up costs and extend project timelines, and shared potential solutions to streamline the process.
Another recurring theme, as it always is at trade shows, was the amount of workforce needed to connect every American to fiber by the end of the decade. That’s where companies like us come into play! Partnering with a specialized staffing firm that understands broadband construction and engineering ensures you have access to top-tier talent with industry-specific expertise, streamlined hiring processes and tailored solutions that drive project success and efficiency. With our deep industry knowledge and extensive network, we provide the right personnel to meet your unique project demands, ensuring timely completion and high-quality results.
Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association highlighted the impressive growth of Fiber Connect, noting the significant increase in attendance each year. The path to a fully connected future is challenging but filled with promise, and events like Fiber Connect are pivotal in driving progress.
We look forward to seeing how the industry evolves and grows, and we can’t wait for Fiber Connect 2025!
Is your company’s workforce prepared for the upcoming surge of telecom infrastructure projects? If you’re ready to transform your existing workforce or prepare for the projects to come, contact us here or give us a call at 315.685.8900!
