The following summary has been condensed for length and readability. To listen to the full discussion, click here. This episode is sponsored by ETI Software and VETRO FiberMap.
In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Brad Hine welcomes Heather B. Gold, Principal at HBG Strategies and former President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association. With over 40 years of experience across leadership roles in Sprint, XO Communications, ALTS, NTS, and many others, Heather shares a wide-ranging conversation about fiber advocacy, policy shifts, and the evolving landscape of broadband in America.
Heather’s journey into telecom began not with a grand plan, but through a finance role at Satellite Business Systems—a position she applied for through a newspaper ad. Her analytical work soon brought her to the regulatory forefront, eventually uncovering a natural talent for explaining complex issues in clear, compelling ways. This gift led to decades of leadership roles and regulatory advocacy that shaped fiber deployment strategies and broadband funding policies.
Speaking from her recent experience at Fiber Connect 2025, Heather highlighted the energy and commitment she saw across the industry. From solving permitting issues to tackling supply chain constraints, the industry’s focus on delivering fiber—especially to unserved rural communities—remains strong. Yet she voiced concern over NTIA’s latest guidance, warning that certain policy shifts could delay or even prevent fiber from reaching those who need it most.
“Unless states can wiggle around these requirements, we risk leaving third-tier rural areas behind again—and that’s truly tragic.”
Heather provided a candid critique of “tech-neutral” approaches that equate fiber with other technologies like fixed wireless or LEO satellite. While these alternatives may offer upfront cost savings, they fall short in long-term performance, reliability, and return on investment.
“You don’t get the same ROI from satellites or fixed wireless as you do from fiber. The upgrades and replacements alone make them more expensive over time.”
Heather recapped a recent panel she led on the real-world challenges of fiber deployment. Key takeaways included the critical need for early coordination on permitting, the importance of smooth material supply flows, and how a surge in demand—especially from data centers—is tightening fiber availability.
As the founder of Women in Fiber, Heather spoke honestly about work-life balance, supporting women in telecom, and the non-negotiables of leadership. She emphasized the importance of authentic leadership, owning your strengths, and supporting your team through both wins and setbacks.
“Let your people run with it. If they succeed, give them the credit. If they stumble, stand in front of them.”
She also shared her philosophy on mentorship and how voices like Tom Cohen and Tim Regan played pivotal roles in her understanding of public policy and industry strategy.
During her time leading the Fiber Broadband Association, Heather spearheaded several initiatives still shaping the industry today, including:
The Community Toolkit (now known as Fiber Broadband 101), which empowers communities to pursue fiber builds independently.
The rebranding of the FTTH Council to the Fiber Broadband Association, a move that helped elevate the organization’s visibility.
Foundational research partnerships that built the case for fiber as essential infrastructure.
If she could go back, Heather would remind herself to “relax, it’ll work out”. She cautioned against burning bridges and encouraged professionals—especially women—to choose paths that align with their own values, not societal expectations.
As for what’s next? Heather is focused on enjoying life, playing golf, staying active in her new Charlottesville community—and remaining open to lending her expertise where it’s needed most.
“I’m not marketing myself aggressively. But if someone wants to use my expertise, I’m here.”
Heather closed with a call to action, urging industry leaders to brace for the operational crunch caused by BEAD funding timelines and to prepare states and communities for a wave of simultaneous deployment needs.
© 2025 Enhanced Telecommunications.
