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 the latest episode of the Broadband Bunch podcast host Brad Hine welcomes Lori Adams, a distinguished broadband expert and attorney with over 20 years of experience in both the government and private sectors. Lori currently serves as the Vice President of Broadband Policy and Funding Strategy for Nokia and is a key member of the U.S. Broadband Business Development Team within the Nokia Network Infrastructure Business Group. Her extensive experience includes business development, legal regulatory issues, grant funding, and municipal broadband, making her a pivotal figure in the broadband industry.
Lori’s current role at Nokia involves handling broadband policy and funding strategies, with a focus on the BEAD program. In 2023, she played a significant role in securing Buy America compliance for Nokia’s BEAD program, culminating in the announcement of U.S. manufacturing of select broadband products with Vice President Kamala Harris. She discussed her involvement in formulating Nokia’s go-to-market strategy and the challenges associated with managing multiple funding streams and regulatory requirements.
Lori shared insights from her participation in the Connected America conference, where she was part of a panel moderated by Megan Beresford. The panel, which included representatives from broadband offices and academia, discussed various aspects of broadband deployment, timelines, and strategies for managing the complex BEAD process. Laurie highlighted the collaborative nature of the discussions and the diverse expertise of the panel members.
A significant portion of the episode was dedicated to exploring the complexities of the Buy America requirements, particularly in relation to the BEAD program. Lori explained the historical context of Buy America laws, their application to broadband electronics for the first time, and the challenges of adjusting global supply chains to meet these requirements. She also detailed the efforts to educate state broadband offices and the importance of incorporating Buy America compliance into broadband deployment plans from the outset.
Lori’s career trajectory is both inspiring and informative. She began her journey in telecommunications at the state and local levels, working on government affairs and policy issues. Her involvement in the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act led to a significant broadband funding award for the state of Maryland, showcasing her expertise in navigating federal funding programs. Lori’s decision to join the government sector after law school, her initial experiences with Comcast, and her subsequent roles in Howard County, Maryland, and consulting work, all contributed to her deep understanding of the broadband landscape.
The episode concluded with Lori discussing the future of broadband policy and funding, particularly in light of the upcoming election year. She emphasized the importance of staying organized and proactive in navigating the BEAD program and other broadband initiatives. Lori’s insights underscore the dynamic nature of the telecommunications industry and the need for continuous learning and adaptation.
For those interested in learning more about Buy America and Nokia’s broadband initiatives, Lori recommended visiting Nokia’s rural broadband resource center and staying updated through her articles on telecom publications.
The conversation with Lori Adams provided a comprehensive overview of the current state of broadband policy and funding strategies. Her expertise and experience offer valuable lessons for anyone involved in the broadband industry, from policymakers to service providers. As the broadband landscape continues to evolve, Lori’s guidance will undoubtedly help shape successful strategies for expanding and enhancing broadband access across the United States.
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