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.
Welcome to another episode of the Broadband Bunch, this time focusing on the much-anticipated Fiber Connect Conference set to occur in Nashville, Tennessee, at the Gaylord Opryland Resort in late July 2024. This episode dives deep into what attendees can expect at this cornerstone event organized annually by the Fiber Broadband Association since 2002.
Hosted by Brad Hine, the episode features an enlightening discussion with key figures spearheading this year’s event: Evann Freeman, Vice President of Government and Community Relations from EPB Chattanooga, and Richard Williams, President and CEO of Connect2 Communications. They share the growth trajectory of Fiber Connect, emphasizing its evolution into a dynamic gathering that now attracts a diverse array of participants from across the broadband ecosystem, including operators, vendors, investors, and government liaisons from both federal and state levels.
Freeman and Williams note that the 2024 conference is already seeing a 30% increase in registrations over the previous year, with approximately 600 network operators registering early. This surge in interest highlights the conference’s expanding relevance and its role in shaping the broadband landscape. The broad range of attendees—from policy makers to network engineers and marketing professionals—underscores the conference’s appeal to all facets of the industry.
True to the spirit of its location in Nashville, known globally as Music City, the conference will integrate musical themes throughout its program. This includes music-themed session titles and live performances by local artists, aiming to blend professional networking and learning with cultural enjoyment. This approach not only enhances the networking atmosphere but also celebrates Nashville’s rich musical heritage.
The episode outlines an impressive roster of keynote speakers and panelists, including U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn and Alan Davidson from the NTIA, who will address key policy issues and federal initiatives impacting broadband funding and deployment. The discussions are set to cover a range of pressing topics such as the distribution of broadband funding, deployment challenges, and technological advancements in fiber optics.
Fiber Connect 2024 will offer an extensive array of sessions designed to cater to various professional needs. Pre-conference workshops will cover practical aspects such as grant writing, community broadband strategies, and marketing, while panel discussions will delve into advanced topics like quantum networks and the integration of agricultural technologies with broadband infrastructure.
The conference will feature innovative session formats, including ‘Operator Light Talks’—quick, impactful presentations similar to TED Talks—focusing on new ideas and developments within the broadband industry. These sessions are designed to provoke thought and inspire innovation among attendees.
Reflecting the musical theme, the networking events are designed to be vibrant and engaging, with live performances set to create a lively atmosphere conducive to making connections. These gatherings will allow attendees to meet industry peers in an informal setting, fostering relationships that can lead to future collaborations.
A significant portion of the episode discusses the various awards that will be presented at the conference, recognizing achievements and contributions to the fiber broadband industry. These awards highlight the innovative spirit and dedication of professionals in the sector, celebrating both individual accomplishments and team successes.
The organizers reveal that planning for the next year’s Fiber Connect begins almost immediately after the current conference concludes. This proactive approach ensures that each conference is timely, relevant, and aligned with the latest industry trends and challenges. The planning involves securing speakers, curating content, and integrating feedback from attendees to continuously improve the conference experience.
As the podcast episode wraps up, the hosts encourage listeners to visit the Fiber Broadband Association’s website for more details and to register for the conference. They emphasize the importance of early registration, given the increasing interest and limited availability of accommodations.
Fiber Connect 2024 promises to be an enriching experience for professionals across the broadband industry, offering a unique blend of educational content, networking opportunities, and cultural enjoyment set against the backdrop of Nashville’s vibrant music scene. The conference is poised to foster discussions that will shape the future of broadband, making it an essential event for anyone involved in this dynamic field.
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