Contributed Article
By: Nadir Noon, Fiber Broadband Association
Broadband funding is rolling in. It seems that every week a new set of states announces federal and/or private funding awards. There has never been a more important time in our industry’s history to ensure that the broadband ecosystem gets this right.
The Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) has kicked off its 2024 workshop tour that will deliver critical broadband content to each corner of the U.S. These events enable network operators, state broadband offices, technology vendors, and other industry experts to collaborate on best practices so they can efficiently build fiber broadband networks and finally connect the unserved and underserved.
FBA’s 2024 Regional Fiber Connect Workshop series will feature five destinations, with each highlighting crucial aspects of connectivity. From Richmond to Albuquerque, stakeholders will be exploring innovative strategies and solutions aimed at bridging the digital divide and unleashing the full potential of fiber broadband.
Telehealth in the Commonwealth
In February, we held our first workshop of the year in Richmond, Va., where the spotlight was firmly placed on telehealth. Against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, stakeholders delved into fiber broadband’s role in enabling equitable access to telemedicine services. From remote consultations to remote patient monitoring, discussions centered on harnessing the power of connectivity to advance the delivery of health care and improve patient outcomes.
“The Natural State” of middle mile networks
The mission continues in Little Rock, Ark., “The Natural State,” on April 16, with a deep dive into the realm of middle mile networks. As the backbone of the digital infrastructure, middle mile networks play a pivotal role in connecting communities to the broader internet ecosystem. Attendees and speakers will explore strategies for optimizing middle mile infrastructure, enhancing reliability, and maximizing capacity to ensure seamless connectivity for all. From rural communities to urban centers, the focus remains on building robust networks capable of supporting the demands of the digital age.
Customer experience buzz
In the beautiful landscape of Deer Valley, Utah, “The Beehive State,” the conversation will shift to the realm of customer experience on June 4. Recognizing that connectivity is about more than just infrastructure, stakeholders will explore ways to enhance the end-user experience, from installation to ongoing support. Through interactive workshops and real-world case studies, participants will gain insights into delivering personalized services, resolving issues promptly, and fostering long-term customer loyalty. By placing the needs of the user front and center, this workshop will lay the groundwork for building sustainable, customer-centric fiber networks.
Precision agriculture advancements in the Midwest
On September 10, FBA will travel to Des Moines, Iowa, where precision agriculture will be the focus against the backdrop of Iowa’s fertile farmlands. Stakeholders will dig into the transformative potential of fiber broadband in revolutionizing farming and agriculture. From real-time monitoring to precision irrigation, discussions will explore how advanced technologies connected to fiber broadband networks can increase efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance crop yields. By harnessing the power of data and connectivity, new frontiers in agricultural innovation will pave the way for a more sustainable and productive future.
Tribal connectivity
Concluding the 2024 series will be the Albuquerque, N.M., workshop, on November 7, focusing on tribal communities. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by indigenous populations in accessing reliable internet connectivity, stakeholders will come together to explore solutions tailored to their specific needs. From infrastructure deployment on tribal lands to digital literacy programs, discussions will center on empowering tribal communities to harness the transformative power of fiber broadband. By fostering collaboration and partnership, the workshop aims to bridge the digital divide, especially in tribal regions, and ensure that no community is left behind in the digital age.
Each Regional Fiber Connect destination brings key aspects of connectivity into focus, from healthcare and agriculture to customer experience and community empowerment. As stakeholders reflect on the insights gained and connections forged, they are poised to drive meaningful progress towards building resilient, high-performance fiber networks that empower communities and transform lives.
These workshops serve as great sources for information for communities striving to overcome the barriers to internet access. By addressing the diverse needs and challenges of each region, these events continue to lay the groundwork for a more connected, equitable, and prosperous future for all. As we look ahead to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead, let us remain consistent in our commitment to building a world where communication knows no bounds, advancing quality of life and digital equity anywhere and everywhere.
