Hosted by the Fiber Broadband Association, Fiber Connect is an industry-leading annual conference that the Ripple Fiber team looks forward to attending each year. With many opportunities to recognize the work of innovators and visionaries, this year’s event was one to remember, celebrating the nation’s biggest year yet in fiber deployment. During the four-day event, two panels featured Ripple Fiber executives, one of whom was also honored at the awards luncheon as a finalist. Missed it? This recap breaks down the key highlights from our team’s experience at Fiber Connect 2025!
Strategic Multifaceted Approach to Fiber Broadband Deployments
Founder and CEO Greg Wilson joined a panel to discuss the implications and potential of various deployment strategies and scenarios, including how to overcome challenges and seize opportunities in new markets. As operators grow their fiber broadband networks, market discovery and selection demand a multifaceted approach and a deep understanding of the local landscape.
Key takeaways:
- As any large-scale construction project comes with challenges, it’s important to build an agile team and provide them with a toolbox of applicable resolutions. That way, they can quickly identify root issues and make efficient decisions without constant escalation.
- Accurate area selection depends on investing in robust data analytics and the ability to interpret key metrics, which ultimately leads to more informed decision-making.
- Be mindful of the geographic considerations, demographic components, pole infrastructure availability, legislative requirements, and competitive environment when determining project cost, speed, and feasibility.
Taking Nothing for Granted: State and Federal Funding Best Practices
Chief Government Affairs Officer Bobbie Gilbert spoke about the grant process alongside fellow industry experts, sharing tips and best practices to consider as funding opportunities arise. Federal and state funding programs have the ability to expand network plans to reach more consumers, and it’s important for providers to put their best foot forward when opportunities or challenges emerge.
Key takeaways:
- Work closely with internal leadership and educate as needed on grant expectations and state-specific requirements, while promoting local community partnership opportunities.
- Take the time to understand the nuances between grant programs, as each state’s grant process looks different, and check for local funding opportunities that can support efforts to reach unserved or underserved communities.
- Partner with regional and local broadband offices, and practice open communication and transparency to resolve any potential issues before they become major roadblocks.
In addition to our participation in insightful panel discussions, Ripple Fiber was also recognized during the annual awards program, as Chief Government Affairs Officer Bobbie Gilbert was recognized as a finalist for the Advocacy Allstar award. This category featured an impressive lineup of individuals recognized for advancing the agenda of the fiber broadband industry on both state and federal levels. Proud of Bobbie’s commitment to fiber broadband advocacy, Ripple Fiber celebrates all the honorees whose work is shaping the future of the industry and making a lasting impact on communities across the country.
Opportunities like Fiber Connect only reinforce our dedication to innovation and the delivery of world-class fiber internet. Our team is grateful to FBA and all who attended for making Fiber Connect an inspiring event. We’re excited to turn our learnings into actionable steps and continue building the future of connectivity.
Follow our LinkedIn and other social media profiles to stay updated on all things Ripple Fiber. Be the first to know where we’re headed next!