Nominee Questionnaire

Please provide a short bio for voters to get to know you. 

Electrical Engineer with 30 years’ experience in the design of optical ande electrical systems all the way to the silicon device level. 15 years experience designing software tools that automatically design silicon devices and communication networks.

Please summarize why you consider yourself an excellent candidate for the FBA Board of Directors? 

I think its critical that the FBA have a software and digital twin representative to bring complex network automation knowledge to the association

Describe your current position and functional responsibilities to your company. 

I am the chief software architect that is building the worlds first optical network EDA (engineering design automation) software platform that will use AI to design, deploy, verify and operate data centers and OSP networks.  

What was your previous position, and how long did you hold that position before transitioning to your current one? 

I was an optical network design and deployment (including fusion splicing) staff engineer that designed and specified product and product enhancements (including the enhancement of systems on board splicing machines).

Do you have any experience as a member of a Board of Directors? If so please provide name of the entity and number of years of which you served. 

No

How many years has your company been a Fiber Broadband Association Member?

I am aware that we have been involved since I started with FBA when I joined SEL in 2012.

How many years have you participated in Fiber Broadband Association activities? 

10 years

Please indicate any Fiber Broadband Association Committees or working groups you have participated on including position and years served. 

None

Please list any Fiber Broadband Association Contributions (activities supported, assets developed, documents drafted, webinars presented, etc.) 

None for FBA but my company has been an active participant in workforce training which I have assisted with, I am especially well know in the LATAM area and worked with Rogerio Lopes doing trainings all around central and South America for many years.

Please provide a short overview of your experience with telecommunications, fiber optics, and FTTH technologies. 

Expert level knowledge of all things optical fiber all the way into the transceivers and now CPOs and PICs all the way to component level.

Please describe the goals you would like to accomplish during your term as Fiber Broadband Association Board Member. 

Help bring digital twin and AI automation knowledge to the organization.

Please describe the level of commitment (in terms of time and effort) that you intend to make to the Association during the three-year term. 

I will support the organization to the level required of a board member and not limited to that.

Please use this space to include any additional information you feel is important to share with voting members.   

I think its crucial to bring digital twin, simulation, visualization and agentic AI design, control and operation to the association and I am an expert in this arena.

Nominee Questionnaire

Please provide a short bio for voters to get to know you. 

A: I‘m the CEO of Render Networks, which makes the AI software that operators and General Contractors use to build and operate fiber and electric networks across the U.S. I have spent 25 years in telecommunications and have worked on most sides of it: for operators, for network vendors, in research, in cloud and AI, and now in management software. Before Render I was General Manager for Global Industries at IBM, running a multi-billion dollar business, and before that I spent 12 years at Nokia, four of them on the leadership team of Nokia Bell Labs. The work has taken me to living in ~20 countries and traded in more than >50 emergent and advanced economies. 

I started out as a soldier in the British Army, serving as an infanteer as part of 5 Airborne Brigade and the UK’s Rapid Reaction Force, which significantly shaped my outlook on performance and leadership. I later took a master’s degree in Strategy & Organizational Leadership at the University of Oxford, but most of what I know about leadership I learned in the field, and I still trust the view from the field over the view from the slide. I’m married with four children, which means I will be working forever… I’m a rugby fan, a mountaineer, and I raise money for charities that support veterans’ mental health. I believe good organizations run on trust, tempo and a shared refusal to accept mediocrity. 

Please summarize why you consider yourself an excellent candidate for the FBA Board of Directors? 

A: The fiber industry spent the last five years winning the argument for major investment. It will spend the next five proving it can build what has been and will be further funded, and that is a much harder problem with the advent of competing access technologies, AI offering equal opportunity and disruption, massive demand to serve AI and data centers and major challenges in the technology and services value chain. These problems also directly compete with the other utilities for the same crews, materials and capital. 

I believe I am unusually well placed to help members through that. I have worked for or alongside every kind of company in this association: operators, network equipment vendors, contractors, software providers and investors. I spent four years on the leadership team at Bell Labs and ran a Global Industries business at IBM and work with AI every day, so I understand AI as a technology and not as a slogan. 

That is what I would bring to the Board: a commercial, technical and operational view of how to build sustainable value while navigating massive complexity, Most importantly I have a strong preference for practical answers that members of any size can use. 

Describe your current position and functional responsibilities to your company. 

A: As CEO I am responsible for Render’s strategy, performance and people. I lead the executive team, answer to our board and investors, and decide where we put our capitlal and our engineering effort. In my first year we acquired mPower Innovations, which took Render beyond fiber construction into operations and asset management for electric utilities and broadband providers in more than 40 states. 

I spend most of my time with customers, which are the FBA’s members: operators, electric cooperatives, municipal utilities, software and hardware vendor partners and the contractors who build for them. I speak regularly at industry events, including Fiber Connect, Metro Connect, TMT Finance and Broadband Nation Expo. These activities keep me honest about what the industry needs to succeed. 

What was your previous position, and how long did you hold that position before transitioning to your current one? 

A: Before Render I spent about two and a half years at IBM, most recently as General Manager for Global Industries, responsible for a multi-billion dollar global business. Before IBM I spent 12 years at Nokia in senior sales and strategy roles, including four years on the leadership team of Nokia Bell Labs. 

Do you have any experience as a member of a Board of Directors? If so please provide name of the entity and number of years of which you served. 

A: I have not served as an elected director of a trade association before, and I would rather say so plainly. My governance experience comes from working with boards at close quarters: as CEO I sit on Render’s investor-backed board, and at Nokia Bell Labs I spent four years on the global leadership team. I am an advisor to a Croatian based venture capital firm, where I advise their board and the CXOs of the portfolio companies. I held a very close working relationship with the Director General and leadership of the GSMA and was the key note at multiple of their boards including the GSMA Annual Board Meeting. While at Nokia and IBM I also sat on ‘top-to-top’ boards of the largest operators in the world. Consequently I know what a board needs from its members: preparation, candor and follow-through. 

How many years has your company been a Fiber Broadband Association Member?

A: Render Networks has been a Premier Member of the Fiber Broadband Association since January 6, 201  

How many years have you participated in Fiber Broadband Association activities? 

A: Since joining Render, 18 months ago I have been active in the community. I have built a strong network and been invited to speak at FBA committee meetings and attended regional and national events. Also in the last 2 years since joining Render, we have been awarded back-to-back first place in FBA award categories. 

Please indicate any Fiber Broadband Association Committees or working groups you have participated on including position and years served. 

A: None to date. I have been invited to speak at different committees on the topic of AI and change management. 

Please list any Fiber Broadband Association Contributions (activities supported, assets developed, documents drafted, webinars presented, etc.) 

A: I have spoken at Fiber Connect and have FBA committees on how AI will change network technology deployment, management and the organizations that do it. 

Render’s work with fellow members has been recognized by FBA in each of the last two years. In 2025 we received the Light It Up Award with Connect2First and Irby Utilities for bringing fiber to underserved communities across 18 Arkansas counties. In 2026 Render and ADB Companies received the Constellation Award for our work together on large-scale fiber deployment. Those awards belong first to the operators and crews who did the building, but they show the kind of collaboration between members that I would want to encourage from the Board. 

Please provide a short overview of your experience with telecommunications, fiber optics, and FTTH technologies. 

A: I have worked at nearly every stage of a network’s life. Early in my career I deployed networks in remote and emerging markets e.g. Eastern Europe back in 2000 and emerging markets like Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. At Nokia I worked on network strategy and technology with leading operators around the world, and at Bell Labs alongside the researchers who shape what networks become. At IBM I worked on how cloud and AI change the way technology and AI cooperate and how operators run their business in the AI-era. 

At Render I am closest to FTTH construction itself. Our customers are the operators, cooperatives and contractors building fiber across the U.S., so I see how networks are designed and scoped, how thousands of field tasks are sequenced, how quality and as-built records are captured, and how a finished build is handed to operations. I also see the constraints up close: crew capacity, productivity, rework, poor data, and the time it takes for invested capital to become a network that earns revenue. 

Please describe the goals you would like to accomplish during your term as Fiber Broadband Association Board Member. 

A: I would concentrate on three things that underpin how FBA members can navigate enormous technological challenges whilst achieving their strategic goals and maintaining their values: 

First, make execution a first-order subject. The industry has the funding. What it lacks is a shared view of what great technology deployment and operation performance looks like. I would like FBA to help members measure and compare how they build: productivity, rework, and the time from capital committed to customer connected and delighted. 

Second, help members get practical about AI. AI will change how networks are designed, built and operated, and the hard part is changing how people work, far more than choosing the technology. Large operators have teams for this but many FBA members do not. I would work to give smaller operators and contractors plain guidance they can act on. 

Third, bring fiber and electric closer together. Broadband, data centers and the grid now draw on the same labor, materials and capital, and many cooperatives and municipal utilities are building more than one of them. FBA should be where that conversation happens, on workforce above all. 

Beneath all three sits the reason any of it matters. A rural community that gets connected, or a region that can host the AI economy, gains far more than the original business case ever predicted. I would want the Board to keep that in view.

Please describe the level of commitment (in terms of time and effort) that you intend to make to the Association during the three-year term. 

A: I will treat this as a working role for the full three years. I will attend every board meeting having read the papers, join at least one committee in my first year, and be present at Fiber Connect and the regional events. I have Render’s full support for the time this takes. 

My standard is the one I hold my own team to: turn up prepared, say what I think, do what I said I would, and listen to people who know something I don’t. 

Please use this space to include any additional information you feel is important to share with voting members.   

A: I am a relative newcomer to FBA and I am not going to pretend otherwise. What I can offer is a fresh pair of eyes backed by a long and varied career in this industry, and a view from the part of the industry where plans meet the ground. 

No company builds a network alone, and no part of this industry will get through the next five years alone either. Operators, contractors, vendors, policymakers and communities will have to share what they are learning, including the things that went wrong. I would be proud to help FBA be the place where that happens. 

Nominee Questionnaire

Please provide a short bio for voters to get to know you. 

My career in fiber began in 2005, when I joined Wave7 Optics, an FTTH equipment supplier in Atlanta. In my official role, I supported the sales team across Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean, but my most valuable days were spent shadowing Wave7 executives across the company’s various operational departments.

In 2007, I stepped away from the fiber industry to gain experience in finance, working on the Equities Sales and Trading Floor at Credit Suisse in Boston.

In 2009, I moved to Las Vegas to join The Broadband Group, the business my parents founded in 1997. There, I helped develop four programs that secured BIP/BTOP grant funding.

In 2013, the late Scott DeGarmo invited me to help lead Broadband Communities. I spent nearly three years working alongside Scott to modernize the company’s conferences and publications before returning to The Broadband Group full time in 2015.

I graduated from Harvard University with a degree in Government, where I played on both the football and rugby teams and earned collegiate All-American honors in rugby.

Based in Las Vegas, Nevada, I serve on the Board of Nevada Public Radio and as President of the Harvard Club of Nevada.

Please summarize why you consider yourself an excellent candidate for the FBA Board of Directors? 

The fiber broadband industry has been part of my life for as long as I can remember, growing up in a household where the family business helped advance some of the industry’s earliest fiber deployments.

I have been fortunate to learn from and be mentored by one of the industry’s most brilliant minds, my late father, Tom Reiman. His guidance, combined with my direct industry experience, has given me a clear understanding and appreciation of the tremendous social and economic opportunities fiber broadband creates, as well as the undeniable business challenges that require careful management.

Describe your current position and functional responsibilities to your company. 

As President, I remain actively involved across all facets of the business. My work ranges from helping land developers understand broadband industry economics and establish fiber connectivity as a cornerstone of large-scale, mixed-use, master-planned communities to advising cities, electric utilities, financial institutions, and rural electric cooperatives on strategies to expand wired and wireless connectivity in underserved areas.

What was your previous position, and how long did you hold that position before transitioning to your current one? 

Prior to joining The Broadband Group, I spent two years at Credit Suisse as a research sales analyst on the equity sales and trading floor of the investment bank.

Do you have any experience as a member of a Board of Directors? If so please provide name of the entity and number of years of which you served. 

I have served as President of the Harvard Club of Nevada since 2019 and joined the Board of Nevada Public Radio in 2025.

How many years has your company been a Fiber Broadband Association Member?

An estimated 10 years.

How many years have you participated in Fiber Broadband Association activities? 

20+ years (with a two-year break while at Credit Suisse).

Please indicate any Fiber Broadband Association Committees or working groups you have participated on including position and years served. 

I have been a participating member of the FBA’s Public Policy Committee for an estimated four (4) years.

Please list any Fiber Broadband Association Contributions (activities supported, assets developed, documents drafted, webinars presented, etc.) 

I have organized and participated in FBA webinars addressing topics including the separation of infrastructure ownership from service delivery and key considerations for land developers evaluating data center development in and around their communities.

At the 2021 Fiber Connect conference in Nashville, I was invited to moderate a keynote session celebrating the completion of Huntsville Utilities’ 1,000-mile fiber network, with Google Fiber serving as the network’s anchor tenant. During the session, Huntsville Utilities leadership, Google Fiber, and Mayor Tommy Battle were presented with the FBA’s Gig City Award.

Please provide a short overview of your experience with telecommunications, fiber optics, and FTTH technologies. 

In 2005, I entered the industry when I joined Wave7 Optics, then a leading provider of optical network terminals (ONTs) and optical line terminals (OLTs) for FTTH networks.

In 2007, I relocated to Boston to work in finance with Credit Suisse, a global investment bank where I focused my energy on understanding and following publicly traded companies in the broadband space.

At Broadband Communities I gained experience learning the fundamentals of organizing successful broadband industry events and managing a trade publication focused on the fiber industry.

I have served on the Urban Land Institute’s National Product Councils since 2009. At ULI’s fall and spring meetings, I help educate land development and homebuilding executives on broadband industry metrics and how to align their planned communities with fiber investments.

Today, I work to advance the fiber industry by advising clients on sustainable broadband deployment strategies.

Please describe the goals you would like to accomplish during your term as Fiber Broadband Association Board Member. 

As the fiber industry, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies continues to evolve, it will be critical for the Association to play a leading role in shaping the connected economy. Fiber infrastructure will serve as the foundation for this next wave of innovation, and the Association is well positioned to bring together the industry leaders, policymakers, and communities responsible for advancing it.

However, the FBA’s continued leadership is not inevitable. Through advocacy and a focus on advancing the interests of Association’s members, I look forward to building on the work of those who established the Fiber to the Home Council, and later the Fiber Broadband Association, and helped make it the important and influential organization it is today.

Please describe the level of commitment (in terms of time and effort) that you intend to make to the Association during the three-year term. 

I would take great pride in advancing the interests of the Fiber Broadband Association. I have reviewed and understand the time commitment expected of Board members and am prepared to meet those expectations and contribute actively to the Association’s mission.

Please use this space to include any additional information you feel is important to share with voting members.   

After years of consideration, it is clear to me that the time has come to take an active role with the Fiber Broadband Association. I hope to earn the trust of the Association’s voting members to serve on the Board to champion our interests and advance our shared industry.

Nominee Questionnaire

Please provide a short bio for voters to get to know you. 

With over 20 years of experience in communications, I have a passion for working with customers and being a trusted advisor for their network designs. My current role at Prysmian is essentially application engineering with a few additional responsibilities surrounding marketing efforts. Prior to coming to Prysmian, I managed the application engineering team at Netceed, a global distributor with a diverse base of customers in the broadband space. 

When I am not a champion for fiber networks, my family gets sick of listening to me pointing out network facilities along the road on trips for travel sports or camping. It is difficult not to have a sense of pride for something that you were part of, especially if it ended up in a book written by Michael Lewis, or in a movie starring Selma Hayek. 

At home I have a wife and three boys, two of which are in high school (not my wife, of course!). I am based in the Philadelphia area where I enjoy a FiOS connection that gets me 300 meg at the desk. When I’m not working, I enjoy running, cycling, photography and cheering or coaching my sons from the sidelines. 

Please summarize why you consider yourself an excellent candidate for the FBA Board of Directors? 

My technical background in supply chain and manufacturing can offer strategic perspective and guidance for the board and committees to help champion the advancement of fiber broadband. During my time in the industry, I have attended and participated in events for several industry associations. I am impressed with the direction and reach of the FBA, and I am motivated to be an impactful part of its mission. The membership of the FBA, IMO, is at the cutting edge of deploying fiber networks. At the same time, the service provider members need the help and expertise that the FBA can bring. To their competitors, that expertise may come from well-established standards groups and legacy organizations. While our members may or may not recognize those standards, they need to have someone in their corner who can not only help with technical support, but public policy, keen insights and reporting, and so much more. 

Describe your current position and functional responsibilities to your company. 

As Technical Marketing Senior Manager, I manage our application engineers for fiber optic cable in North America. We are a team of four who divide responsibility by optical fiber, and various types of cable that we offer. Tasks range from building bills of material for projects to working with customers to select the correct cables to use in their applications. Often sales will engage with application engineering to assist with customer presentations virtually or in-person. 

We are also responsible for creating and maintaining data sheets, catalogs, whitepapers, and application notes for Prysmian’s fiber optic cable and fibers in North America. Our department assists marketing with product sample and display creation for trade shows and other customer events. 

As Prysmian works towards becoming a solutions company, my background in the industry benefits all efforts to blend the strengths, products and acumen of the organizations that we acquire or organically grow. I have become involved with opportunities including our partner Relativity Networks for Hollow Core Fiber, Alesea for asset management, legacy General Cable for emerging PoE technologies, and Channell for FTTH solutions. 

What was your previous position, and how long did you hold that position before transitioning to your current one? 

At Netceed, I was the Director of Application Engineering, and I managed a team of 7 who included field and desk roles. Our group was responsible for helping train customers on how to splice, test and install fiber optic cable among other key training for other network pathway and tools. We would work with customers on delivering everything from a single part number to a full solution of products to help them deploy faster and save cost. Our team was also responsible for running a cabinet integration business out of our North Carolina location. The cabinet segment was staffed by industry veterans offering high-quality turnkey cabinets combining power, access equipment and connectivity. 

I started my journey with Netceed at Comstar Supply, where I was at the organization a combined 15 years. During my time at Comstar, I was part of the growth that saw the company go from $20M to $100M+. My role that eventually became application engineering started in sales. I was also responsible for growing the product portfolio, seeking new vendor relationships, and training our sales staff on those new lines.

Do you have any experience as a member of a Board of Directors? If so please provide name of the entity and number of years of which you served. 

This would be my first board seat. 

How many years has your company been a Fiber Broadband Association Member?

Prysmian has been a member for over 20 years. 

How many years have you participated in Fiber Broadband Association activities? 

6

Please indicate any Fiber Broadband Association Committees or working groups you have participated on including position and years served. 

I am currently the Vice Chair of the Supply Chain committee, and I also serve on the Middle Mile and Education committees. I started joining the committees in 2025. 

Please list any Fiber Broadband Association Contributions (activities supported, assets developed, documents drafted, webinars presented, etc.) 

This year I sat on a panel at Fiber Connect discussing MDU solutions with Kevin Bourg, Mike White, Adam Bell and Jeff Baumgartner. I also presented a webinar on 6/16 entitled “Fiber Provisioning, What’s Next?” to highlight the future possibilities of reduced fiber coatings, Hollow Core and Multi-Core Fibers. With the Supply Chain committee, I spearheaded the document Network Materials Outlook, which just went through its final revision. This paper will give operators keen insights deeper into the supply chain to help stay ahead of potential shortages and price increases. It also arms them with questions to ask the supplier community to help them navigate more challenging periods such as the one we are in now. I am also coordinating with the Education committee on some of the training modules for OpTIC Path. 

Please provide a short overview of your experience with telecommunications, fiber optics, and FTTH technologies. 

While I have never worked in the field, I have been through numerous supplier trainings with real hands-on experience. Through those trainings, I have trained customers on how to operate cable jetting equipment, splice machines and fiber optic test equipment. I have supported product trials with customers, at times actively participating in demonstrating various equipment. 

And while I am very comfortable working alongside contractors and end user technicians in the field, I also enjoy speaking at events and webinars. In fact, this week I was at an industry consulting firm event, networking with CEOs and other high-profile executives. The next day I was at a cable jetting trial assisting with the testing of new cable designs. I had to pack one bag with boots, and another with a suit and tie for that trip.

Please describe the goals you would like to accomplish during your term as Fiber Broadband Association Board Member. 

While I have experience in many market verticals within telecommunications, there is still a lot I can learn from my industry peers. In that same vein, I feel there is a lot of knowledge I can share with the FBA members. I want to empower operators to make the best purchasing decisions to help them complete their projects on time and within budget. I would also like to see more technicians become proficient through the OpTIC Path program. Furthermore, I would like to be an advocate for the FBA overall, promoting the benefits of the organization to new and existing members.

Please describe the level of commitment (in terms of time and effort) that you intend to make to the Association during the three-year term. 

Since joining Prysmian, I was excited to have the opportunity to network and get involved with the FBA as a Premier Member. I would say I am already meeting the goals of virtual meetings, through participation in committee events. As a board member, I see the need to include more regional events on my calendar, and I am ready and willing to participate in those. 

Please use this space to include any additional information you feel is important to share with voting members.   

There is so much more I could say about my experiences in the industry, but I think it is my passion to learn more and get involved that makes seeking a position on the board a natural step in my career path. Thank you for your time in considering me for an open board position. 

Nominee Questionnaire

Please provide a short bio for voters to get to know you. 

Chad W. Kay serves as Senior Director of Technical Operations at TFS, where he provides leadership and strategic direction for broadband network operations, technology initiatives, infrastructure planning, and service delivery. In addition to his responsibilities at TFS, Chad serves as a telecommunications consultant for CCI Systems, supporting broadband providers with strategic and operational initiatives. 

Prior to his current role, Chad spent seven years as State Engineer for Packerland Broadband, now known as Astrea, where he played a significant role in the engineering, expansion, operation, and evolution of broadband networks serving customers throughout the region. This experience provided firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities faced by service providers and reinforced the importance of delivering reliable broadband services and exceptional customer experiences. 

Chad also works with several venture capital and investment organizations, performing technical and operational due diligence and supporting mergers and acquisitions within the telecommunications sector. With more than 32 years of industry experience, he brings a unique perspective that combines service provider operations, consulting expertise, and investment analysis. 

Please summarize why you consider yourself an excellent candidate for the FBA Board of Directors? 

I believe I am an excellent candidate for the Fiber Broadband Association Board because I bring a well-rounded perspective shaped by more than 32 years in telecommunications and broadband. 

My experience spans service provider operations, engineering leadership, consulting, and investment advisory work. During my seven years as State Engineer for Packerland Broadband (now Astrea), I was directly involved in network planning, deployment, upgrades, and operational support. This work provided valuable insight into the realities of operating a broadband network and the importance of customer-focused decision making. 

Today, as Senior Director of Technical Operations at TFS, I help guide technical strategy and operational performance. Through my consulting work with CCI Systems and my involvement in M&A and due diligence activities for investment organizations, I also have visibility into emerging technologies, industry trends, broadband business models, and growth opportunities across the market. 

This combination of experiences allows me to bring the perspective of an operator, engineer, consultant, and strategic advisor to the Board, helping ensure that the Association continues delivering value to members while advancing the growth and success of fiber broadband throughout North America.

Describe your current position and functional responsibilities to your company. 

As Senior Director of Technical Operations for TFS, I provide leadership and oversight for broadband network operations, infrastructure planning, technology initiatives, service delivery, and operational performance. My responsibilities include developing technical strategies, supporting network expansion efforts, driving operational excellence, and ensuring our customers receive reliable, high-quality broadband services. 

In addition, I serve as a telecommunications consultant for CCI Systems, where I support broadband providers with strategic planning, operational assessments, technology evaluations, and business improvement initiatives. 

I also perform technical and operational due diligence for venture capital and investment organizations evaluating broadband companies, acquisitions, and investment opportunities. This work includes assessing network infrastructure, operational capabilities, growth potential, and technology strategies within the telecommunications sector. 

My previous experience as State Engineer for Packerland Broadband (now Astrea) further strengthened my understanding of broadband operations, network engineering, customer service needs, and the practical challenges associated with expanding and maintaining high-performing communications networks. 

What was your previous position, and how long did you hold that position before transitioning to your current one? 

8 years as a Director and Manager of TFS (technical Field Services) = managed and operated the engineering HFC field team and our Fiber Splicing division for CCI Systems.  

Do you have any experience as a member of a Board of Directors? If so please provide name of the entity and number of years of which you served. 

While I have not formally served as a member of a Board of Directors, I have extensive experience in executive leadership, strategic planning, organizational governance, budget oversight, and operational decision-making through my roles in telecommunications leadership, consulting, and M&A due diligence activities. These experiences have provided me with many of the skills and perspectives required to effectively contribute as a board member. 

How many years has your company been a Fiber Broadband Association Member?

2 years as a premier member and 3 years as a member.  

How many years have you participated in Fiber Broadband Association activities? 

I have been an active participant in Fiber Broadband Association activities for several years, regularly attending Fiber Connect, national industry events, and educational webinars. My participation has allowed me to remain engaged with industry developments and contribute to discussions surrounding fiber deployment, broadband operations, and emerging technologies. 

Please indicate any Fiber Broadband Association Committees or working groups you have participated on including position and years served. 

While I have not formally served on a Fiber Broadband Association committee or working group, I have remained actively engaged with the Association through participation in Fiber Connect, national industry events, educational programs, and webinars. During much of the recent BEAD planning and implementation period, my consulting responsibilities supporting broadband providers and stakeholders consumed a significant portion of my available industry volunteer time. 

As BEAD initiatives continue to move from planning into execution, I am now in a position to dedicate more time and attention to Fiber Broadband Association committee and working group participation. I look forward to contributing my experience as a broadband operator, engineer, consultant, and due diligence advisor to support the Association’s strategic objectives and member initiatives.

Please list any Fiber Broadband Association Contributions (activities supported, assets developed, documents drafted, webinars presented, etc.) 

“Don’t Trip at the Starting Line: Mastering Permitting Hurdles in Fiber Optic Design.” 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYpUa8E5NUc 

Please provide a short overview of your experience with telecommunications, fiber optics, and FTTH technologies. 

Over the course of my 32-year telecommunications career, I have gained extensive experience in network engineering, broadband operations, fiber deployment, infrastructure planning, technology leadership, and customer service delivery. 

For seven years, I served as State Engineer for Packerland Broadband, now operating as Astrea, where I was responsible for engineering and supporting broadband networks while helping guide network growth and technology evolution. This role provided direct experience with the challenges of operating a service provider network, maintaining network reliability, and delivering high-quality services to residential and business customers. 

Throughout my career, I have been actively involved in the evolution of broadband technologies, including supporting and guiding the transition of legacy Hybrid Fiber-Coaxial (HFC) networks to Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) architectures. These initiatives included network planning, engineering, deployment strategies, and operational considerations necessary to modernize broadband infrastructure and improve customer experiences through increased capacity, reliability, and scalability. 

As Senior Director of Technical Operations at TFS, I continue to support the development and operation of advanced broadband infrastructure while leading strategic initiatives designed to improve network performance, operational effectiveness, and long-term technology planning. 

My consulting work with CCI Systems and my involvement in broadband M&A and due diligence activities further broaden my perspective by providing exposure to a wide range of fiber operators, technologies, deployment models, and business strategies. Collectively, these experiences have given me a comprehensive understanding of telecommunications, fiber optics, FTTH technologies, and the operational realities facing broadband providers today. 

Having served as an operator, engineer, consultant, and industry advisor, I bring a practical understanding of both the technical and business considerations required to successfully deploy, operate, and grow fiber broadband networks. 

Please describe the goals you would like to accomplish during your term as Fiber Broadband Association Board Member. 

If elected, my goals would be to support the continued growth of fiber broadband deployment, strengthen collaboration among Association members, and help advance initiatives that address workforce development and industry education. 

I would also like to help promote best practices that improve the efficiency and success of fiber network deployments, advocate for policies and programs that expand broadband access, and ensure the Association continues to provide meaningful value to members across all segments of the industry. 

Additionally, I hope to bring an operator’s perspective to strategic discussions and help bridge the gap between industry innovation and practical implementation. 

Please describe the level of commitment (in terms of time and effort) that you intend to make to the Association during the three-year term. 

If elected, I am fully committed to being an active and engaged Board member throughout the three-year term. I will prioritize attendance and participation in Board meetings, committee work, industry events, strategic planning sessions, and member engagement activities. 

I intend to contribute not only through meeting participation but also by leveraging my industry experience, professional network, and leadership background to help advance the Association’s strategic objectives and long-term success. 

Please use this space to include any additional information you feel is important to share with voting members.   

The fiber broadband industry is experiencing unprecedented growth and opportunity. As industry leaders, we have a responsibility to ensure our networks, workforce, and organizations are prepared to meet future demands. 

I am passionate about helping communities gain access to reliable broadband services and believe fiber infrastructure will continue to play a critical role in economic development, education, healthcare, and quality of life. If elected, I will bring a collaborative mindset, practical operational experience, and a genuine commitment to serving the Association and its members. 

Nominee Questionnaire

Please provide a short bio for voters to get to know you. 

Mr. Rob Griffin serves as the Tribal Broadband Director for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, where he leads broadband strategy and infrastructure development to expand digital access across the Nation’s territory. A proud member of the Choctaw Nation, Mr. Griffin brings over 25 years of experience in designing, implementing, and managing technology-driven solutions that connect communities across the United States and globally.

Throughout his career, Mr. Griffin has partnered with Tribal, Federal, and State governments, as well as commercial enterprise clients, small-to-medium businesses, and Fortune 500 telecommunications firms. His work has included supporting regional fiber carriers with go-to-market strategies, including fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) initiatives, and advising on network design and deployment across diverse environments.

His leadership is instrumental in advancing the broadband initiatives of the Choctaw Nation, the third-largest Native American tribe in the United States, with more than 200,000 tribal members and over 12,000 employees. Headquartered in Durant, Oklahoma, the Nation’s historical boundaries encompass the southeastern region of the state. The Choctaw Nation’s vision—Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family, and culture—continues to guide its mission of delivering meaningful opportunities for growth and prosperity. 

Rob lives in Trophy Club, Tx with his wife Robin and their 2 Pugs.  Their six children live in Oklahoma, Florida and Nevada with one grandson in OKC.  You can see more on Instagram @ChoctawConnect.  His professional profile is on Linked In at: www.linkedin.com/in/robagriffin 

Please summarize why you consider yourself an excellent candidate for the FBA Board of Directors? 

My vast knowledge and experience in multiple disciplines of technology equip me with almost any conversation around the delivery of technology services. My desire for continual learning and community involvement drives me towards my mission of continual education for end users and better service.  I look forward to discussing strategically how FBA can move forward and make a difference for the Fiber Infrastructure Industry. 

Describe your current position and functional responsibilities to your company. 

I currently serve as the Tribal Broadband Director for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, where I lead broadband strategy and infrastructure development to expand digital access across the Nation’s territory 

What was your previous position, and how long did you hold that position before transitioning to your current one? 

I previously worked for a Regional Fiber Company “Dobson Fiber”.  My role was the Director of Enterprise Sales.  I designed solutions for Regional Banks, Government entities, Retail businesses and Tribal Nations.  I worked on implementing new product sets and operational excellence throughout the organization.  My tenure was 7 years. 

Do you have any experience as a member of a Board of Directors? If so please provide name of the entity and number of years of which you served. 

I currently serve on The Cheyenne and Arapaho Utility Board: Oklahoma Based; The Broadband Expo Advisory Board; The ISE Expo Advisory Board and the Communities Unlimited Advisory Committee.  All of these are 1-2 years of service.

How many years has your company been a Fiber Broadband Association Member?

3

How many years have you participated in Fiber Broadband Association activities? 

3

Please indicate any Fiber Broadband Association Committees or working groups you have participated on including position and years served. 

Tribal Committee Co-Chairman 3 

Public Policy – Fiber Day on the Hill 2026 – Regular Attendee 1 

Marketing – Attendee 1 

AI- Attendee 1 

Please list any Fiber Broadband Association Contributions (activities supported, assets developed, documents drafted, webinars presented, etc.) 

1. Fiber for Breakfast Broadband Webinar 
2. Tribal Webinar. Not Aired 
3. Broadband for Oklahoma Award Winner Video Participant & Tribal Coordinator 
4. First Americans Committee support 
5. Tribal Regional Events Liason and support 
6. Membership engagement at 10 FBA supported shows. 
7. Multiple Panel Contributions including moderator and panelist 
8. Dallas Meetup Event 
9. Dr. Charles Kao Award for Outstanding Contributions to Advancing Broadband Access 

Please provide a short overview of your experience with telecommunications, fiber optics, and FTTH technologies. 

I began my career with a company named Brooks Fiber in 1997.  We built SONET rings in Tier 2 markets for commercial connectivity.  I then designed fiber-based networks for SBC-ATT for 14 years.  I delivered fiber-based solutions to commercial and government entities for 7 years at Dobson Fiber in OKC.  I have been designing and implementing FTTH solutions for Choctaw Nation for 10 years now. 

Please describe the goals you would like to accomplish during your term as Fiber Broadband Association Board Member. 

I want to make sure that fiber-based connectivity continues to lead the conversation and keep awareness of this vital part of the network and that it does not take a back seat to satellite. I also want to continually educate and support the rural communities as they become well positioned to compete with larger Tier 1 markets. 

Please describe the level of commitment (in terms of time and effort) that you intend to make to the Association during the three-year term. 

I intend to duplicate my efforts of the last 3 years and expand my involvement beyond the Tribal conversation.  I look forward to supporting panel discussions for various topics and attending Fiber Connect and Regional Events including Local Meetups.  

Please use this space to include any additional information you feel is important to share with voting members.   

I am grateful for my time at FBA.  I have learned so many valuable topics to help my organization build the best fiber optic solutions that will serve generations of The Choctaw People.  This will ensure our future success! The personal relationships that have been built will be cherished and valued by me and my team for many years to come. 

Nominee Questionnaire

Please provide a short bio for voters to get to know you. 

First and foremost, I’m mission-driven. I believe in what we’re doing as an industry. There aren’t many businesses where the commercial opportunity and the public good line up this clearly. Connecting America with fiber matters. It changes what communities can do and whether they can compete. That belief has shaped my career. 

I’m currently Vice President of Americas Partners and Business Development at Adtran. I have more than 25 years of experience at the intersection of broadband, energy, law, policy and business strategy. 

Before joining Adtran in 2023, I served as Vice President of Business and Technology Strategies at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, where I led work on rural broadband, emerging technology and utility business models. Earlier, I served as NRECA’s Regulatory and FERC Counsel and practiced law in Washington for 15 years, representing electric cooperatives and municipal utilities. 

I currently co-chair FBA’s Public Policy Committee and received FBA’s 2026 Photon Award for volunteer service to the Association and the industry. 

I earned my undergraduate degree in Communications, with minors in Ethnic Studies and Law & Society, from the University of California, San Diego, and my law degree from Tulane in New Orleans. 

I’ve lived in D.C. for 29 years. I’m married to a woman who is much smarter than I am. My daughter, who was adopted from Guatemala, is a sophomore at LSU. Geaux Tigers! 

Please summarize why you consider yourself an excellent candidate for the FBA Board of Directors? 

I bring an unusual combination of experience. I understand how broadband policy gets made in Washington, how electric cooperatives, municipal utilities and rural providers decide whether a network is financially and operationally workable, and how suppliers and partners must support those providers long after the funding announcement. 

I have led multidisciplinary teams, managed complex initiatives and served in association governance roles. FBA now needs to help its members turn public policy and funding into working networks while positioning fiber at the center of data centers, artificial intelligence, energy infrastructure and quantum technology. I can help broaden that conversation without losing focus on the providers and communities at the heart of FBA’s mission. 

Finally, I bring a sense of humor, which is more useful in Board service than the bylaws acknowledge. My mother has independently confirmed that I am very funny. 

Describe your current position and functional responsibilities to your company. 

I lead Adtran’s partner and business development work across the Americas. My responsibilities span channel partners, technology and software alliances, private equity relationships and industry associations. I focus particularly on electric cooperatives, municipal utilities, tribal entities and rural broadband providers, helping connect their business and operational needs with practical network solutions. I also support Adtran’s federal and state policy engagement, broadband funding strategy, utility and smart-grid initiatives, market development and partnerships involving fiber access, transport, network security, data centers and emerging technologies. 

What was your previous position, and how long did you hold that position before transitioning to your current one? 

Immediately before joining Adtran, I served as Vice President of Business and Technology Strategies at NRECA from 2017 until May 2023, approximately six years. I led a team of more than 15 technical and consulting professionals and oversaw initiatives involving rural broadband, utility business models, data analytics, emerging technology, resource adequacy and energy markets. Before that, I served on NRECA’s Government Relations team as Regulatory and FERC Counsel from 2014 to 2017. 

Do you have any experience as a member of a Board of Directors? If so please provide name of the entity and number of years of which you served. 

Yes. My board and association governance experience includes:

• Charitable Foundation of the Energy Bar Association: Board and officer roles from 2006 to 2011, including President in 2010-2011 (five years).

• Energy Bar Association: Board and officer roles from 2011 to 2021: Representative to the American Bar Association House of Delegates from 2011 to 2013 (10 years). 

• Foundation of the Energy Law Journal: Officer and board roles from 2021 to 2025, including President in 2023-2024 (four years). 

How many years has your company been a Fiber Broadband Association Member?

Adtran has been a Fiber Broadband Association member since 2008, more than 18 years. 

How many years have you participated in Fiber Broadband Association activities? 

I have participated in Fiber Broadband Association activities since 2021, approximately five years. 

Please indicate any Fiber Broadband Association Committees or working groups you have participated on including position and years served. 

Public Policy Committee: Member for more than two years and Co-Chair for the past ten months. 

Please list any Fiber Broadband Association Contributions (activities supported, assets developed, documents drafted, webinars presented, etc.) 

I have helped shape and review FBA advocacy before the FCC and state officials on pole attachments, barriers to wireline deployment, Lifeline, the Universal Service Fund High-Cost program and network security. I have participated in Fiber Day on the Hill and other congressional advocacy, and I spoke at Fiber Connect 2026 on identifying gaps in existing network footprints. In 2026, FBA honored my service with its Photon Award. 

Please provide a short overview of your experience with telecommunications, fiber optics, and FTTH technologies. 

I have worked intensively on telecommunications and rural broadband issues for approximately a decade, first at NRECA and now at Adtran. At NRECA, I helped electric cooperatives evaluate broadband feasibility, funding, business models, partnerships and the relationship between communications networks and utility operations. At Adtran, I work across the FTTH lifecycle, including fiber access and transport, PON platforms, optical network terminals, in-home Wi-Fi, fiber monitoring, network security and software-enabled operations. I am not a network engineer; my experience is translating technology, policy, finance and operating requirements into decisions that providers can execute. That perspective helps me bridge the people who design networks, the organizations that finance and operate them, and the policymakers who shape the market. 

Please describe the goals you would like to accomplish during your term as Fiber Broadband Association Board Member. 

My first goal would be to make FBA’s advocacy even more execution-focused. The industry has spent years securing broadband funding; now members need progress on pole access, permitting, workforce, sustainable universal service and the other barriers between an award and a connected customer. Second, I would help expand FBA’s reach among electric cooperatives, municipal utilities, tribal entities, rural providers, investors and other organizations that influence fiber deployment. Third, I would help FBA lead the convergence of fiber with data centers, artificial intelligence, energy infrastructure and quantum technology while protecting the Association’s core FTTH mission. Success would mean stronger member value, broader participation and policy positions grounded in the realities of building and operating networks. 

Please describe the level of commitment (in terms of time and effort) that you intend to make to the Association during the three-year term. 

I intend to be an active Board member, not a name on a roster. I will prepare for and participate in Board and committee meetings, attend key FBA events, support member recruitment and advocacy, and follow through on assignments between meetings. Adtran supports my candidacy and the time commitment required. I am prepared to devote the travel, preparation and working time necessary throughout the full three-year term. 

Please use this space to include any additional information you feel is important to share with voting members.   

Adtran is a supplier, but I would not view Board service as a platform for Adtran. If elected, my obligation would be to FBA and its membership as a whole. 

I would bring a perspective shaped by utilities and rural providers, sound policy judgment, executive leadership experience and relationships across the broadband ecosystem. I know how to ask hard questions, listen to competing views and help a group reach decisions that people can actually execute. 

My goal would be not only to advocate for what the fiber industry needs, but also to help FBA show policymakers, investors and communities what fiber makes possible. 

Nominee Questionnaire

Please provide a short bio for voters to get to know you. 

I bring more than four decades of telecommunications experience, beginning as a field technician and advancing through leadership roles in outside plant construction, OSP/ISP engineering, technical support, OSS project management and fiber network planning. Over the past 12 years, I have led major improvements to TDS Telecom’s FTTX network designs and hold five patents for innovative OSP processes. This combination of hands-on field experience, technical expertise and strategic leadership gives me a comprehensive perspective on building faster, more efficient and cost-effective fiber networks.

Please summarize why you consider yourself an excellent candidate for the FBA Board of Directors? 

For the past 15 years, I have dedicated my career to designing and deploying fiber networks because I believe fiber is the foundation to our future. Broad access to fiber will drive innovation, connect people and ideas, and improve lives and communities. The Fiber Broadband Association has the authority, influence and expertise to lead this transformation. I welcome the opportunity to bring my experience and passion to the board, helping remove barriers to deployment, shape the industry’s direction, and expand fiber connectivity to help communities thrive.  

Describe your current position and functional responsibilities to your company. 

I currently lead network planning teams and construction project management teams. My planning responsibilities include the following: 

• Planning for new market builds which all aspects of the network plan including the fiber placement, transport design, routing infrastructure and backhaul design to support data, video and voice services.   

• Planning and design for our ILEC and cable markets to support FTTX over builds.  

• New product evaluation, selection and testing for network hardware including access, transport and routing gear. I’m not only responsible for selection but also the testing of both the hardware and software.  

• OSP new product evaluation and testing to support construction efficiency in terms of lowering cost and increasing speed  

• Network capacity management across all platforms such as access, transport, routing, core network connectivity and peering. This includes both FTTX areas and DOCSIS 

• Core network and backhaul circuit design including circuit MACD processes, budget management (~$20M yearly) and cost control.  

• Video infrastructure planning and design. 

• Critical infrastructure (power systems, batteries, generators, HVAC systems) design, engineering and installation. 

• Lead TDS’s construction project management teams who manage all TDS Telecom’s capital construction projects. This group manages timeline and costs supporting our network builds   

What was your previous position, and how long did you hold that position before transitioning to your current one? 

Previously, I was Senior Manager – Network Architecture & Integration for 3 years.

Do you have any experience as a member of a Board of Directors? If so please provide name of the entity and number of years of which you served. 

I served on the advisory board of the ISE Expo until September of 2026 when my term expired. While it isn’t a board of directors’ position, I provided similar guidance and direction to the organization.

How many years has your company been a Fiber Broadband Association Member?

TDS Telecom has been a member of FBA for more than 10 years. Knowing the importance of membership, I specifically championed our company to become a member. I also lobbied for TDS Telecom to become a premier member 4 years ago, knowing the importance of that membership level for our company. 

How many years have you participated in Fiber Broadband Association activities? 

I have attended Fiber Connect for 15+ years.  I am currently serving on the Technical Committee and have been for 8 years.  Additionally, I am a recent member of the Deployment Specialists Committee. 

Please indicate any Fiber Broadband Association Committees or working groups you have participated on including position and years served. 

For the past 8 years, I have been serving on the Technical Committee.  Additionally, I am a 2026 member of the Deployment Specialists Committee. 

Please list any Fiber Broadband Association Contributions (activities supported, assets developed, documents drafted, webinars presented, etc.) 

I have contributed technical input to several FBA papers, including the splitting architecture paper published earlier this year. While I have not maintained a complete list of those contributions, I have consistently shared my expertise to help strengthen the association’s technical resources. 

Please provide a short overview of your experience with telecommunications, fiber optics, and FTTH technologies. 

I have been in the operator space for over 40 years. I have worked on fiber projects since the early 1990’s so I have a deep knowledge of fiber access and transport systems. Over the last 10 years I have completely transformed our fiber network design approach for both urban and rural construction, lowering the cost basis by more than 30% in both cases. I have several process patents for the deployment of unbalanced optical splitting. Additionally, I have worked with OSP equipment manufacturers to create products that fit our deployment models.  Those product lines have been successful and have expanded. I am very focused on innovations that speed construction and lower the costs.

Please describe the goals you would like to accomplish during your term as Fiber Broadband Association Board Member. 

Construction is a complicated business, and my goals would focus on making that work as clear from encumbrances as possible.  Improved permitting and stricter requirements for facility locating are important issues from my perspective. Those things help the here and now.  My future view of fiber includes issues around edge computing infrastructure to support AI. I firmly believe that edge computing will extend from massive data center deployments to smaller and smaller deployments until we see it at the business or at the home. This transition will be unstoppable. Our fiber advocacy must support those use cases and ensure FBA is the leading industry voice for those future network designs.

Please describe the level of commitment (in terms of time and effort) that you intend to make to the Association during the three-year term. 

I approach service to professional organizations with genuine passion and a strong sense of responsibility. If elected, I will be fully committed throughout the three-year term and will dedicate the time, preparation and effort needed to participate actively in board meetings, committee work and Association initiatives.  

Please use this space to include any additional information you feel is important to share with voting members.   

I think that it is critical that a larger provider with a broad view of deployment in a wide variety of circumstances. My overall view is across traditional ILEC networks, MSO networks, and aggressive fiber overbuilding. That view at scale along with my experience allows me to provide a great perspective about the real-time issues affecting fiber deployments. Without cost effective construction fiber connectivity will never reach the potential that we, as a society, need.  AI support will be critical and fiber networks will be the engine to support that growth.

Nominee Questionnaire

Please provide a short bio for voters to get to know you. 

I am the Vice President of Marketing & Customer Solutions at Midwest Energy & Communications. Throughout my career, I have focused on one simple goal: understanding customers and improving their experience. My work spans customer solutions, communications, marketing, and community engagement, all with a commitment to helping rural communities thrive through electric, propane, and broadband services. 

In addition to my leadership role at MEC, I am actively involved in the Fiber Broadband Association, Women in Fiber, and the Calix Customer Advisory Board. I previously served on NISC’s Marketing & Customer Experience Advisory Board and as Chair of the Cass County Economic Development Corporation. These roles reflect my commitment to industry collaboration, leadership development, and customer-centered decision-making. 

I believe the strongest organizations combine vision with action. I am committed to advancing initiatives that create meaningful value for members, customers, and communities.

Please summarize why you consider yourself an excellent candidate for the FBA Board of Directors? 

I believe I am an excellent candidate for the FBA Board because I bring a combination of industry involvement, leadership experience, and a strong commitment to execution. Throughout my career, I have focused on turning ideas into measurable results, whether improving the customer experience, advancing broadband adoption, developing leaders or strengthening the communities we serve. 

I am known as someone who follows through on commitments, tackles challenges directly, and works collaboratively to move initiatives from discussion to action. I would bring that same approach and dedication to serving on the FBA Board. 

Describe your current position and functional responsibilities to your company. 

As Vice President of Marketing & Customer Solutions at Midwest Energy & Communications, I lead customer solutions, dispatch, marketing, communications, and public relations. I keep customer needs at the center of business decisions while supporting growth, operational excellence, and community engagement. 

In my role, I oversee customer experience strategy, customer communications, sales and retention initiatives, brand and marketing strategy, crisis and outage communications, and key customer-facing operational functions. I also work closely with executive leadership to evaluate emerging technologies, competitive threats, new service opportunities, and long-term strategic initiatives that support our electric, propane, and broadband businesses and the communities we serve. 

A significant part of my work involves connecting customer insights with organizational strategy, helping ensure that investments, programs, and initiatives deliver meaningful value to both customers and the company. 

What was your previous position, and how long did you hold that position before transitioning to your current one? 

Before becoming Vice President, I served in several roles at MEC, including five years as Marketing Manager.   

Do you have any experience as a member of a Board of Directors? If so please provide name of the entity and number of years of which you served. 

I served on the Cass County EDC/Brownfield Board of Directors, including one term as Chair. 

I also served on NISC’s Marketing & Customer Experience Advisory Board and currently serve on the Calix Customer Advisory Board. 

How many years has your company been a Fiber Broadband Association Member?

MEC has been a member of the FBA since 2008. 

How many years have you participated in Fiber Broadband Association activities? 

I have been active in the Women in Fiber Committee for five years. 

Please indicate any Fiber Broadband Association Committees or working groups you have participated on including position and years served. 

I have served on the Women in Fiber Committee for five years. For the past two years, I have served as Chair. Previously, I served as committee secretary and as co-chair of the committee’s social media and marketing working group. 

Please list any Fiber Broadband Association Contributions (activities supported, assets developed, documents drafted, webinars presented, etc.) 

My primary contributions to the Fiber Broadband Association have been through my involvement with Women in Fiber. I actively participate in Women in Fiber leadership meetings, helping advance initiatives that support member engagement, professional development, mentorship, and industry collaboration. 

I support the planning and delivery of the Women in Fiber monthly webinar series and serve as a presenter and panelist multiple times each year. I have also presented at the Women in Fiber Luncheon and other Association-sponsored events, sharing perspectives on customer experience, leadership, communications, and broadband industry trends. 

I helped launch an ambassador program that represents the FBA at regional and industry events, builds engagement, and raises awareness of both Women in Fiber and the FBA. 

In addition, I am an active mentor in the Women in Fiber mentoring program, supporting the development of emerging leaders within our industry. I have contributed to FBA promotional and advocacy efforts, including supporting the Association’s Dolly Parton initiative and participating in video productions used to promote Association programs and initiatives. 

Through these activities, I have helped strengthen member engagement, develop leaders, raise broadband awareness, and advance the Fiber Broadband Association’s mission. 

Please provide a short overview of your experience with telecommunications, fiber optics, and FTTH technologies. 

I began my career in the electric utility industry in 1998. In 2015, Midwest Energy & Communications made the strategic decision to expand into fiber broadband, and I was part of the leadership team challenged with learning an entirely new industry while building and growing a fiber-to-the-home business. 

Building the fiber business required significant education, training, and industry engagement as we developed expertise in telecommunications, fiber technology, broadband operations, and regulatory requirements. I helped build customer-facing teams from the ground up and develop the processes, communications, and customer experience strategies needed to launch and scale our FTTH business within our existing service territory and later in new markets. 

Today, we serve more fiber broadband customers than electric customers, a milestone that reflects the dedication of our team and the growing importance of fiber connectivity in rural communities. While I am proud of the growth we have achieved, I am most proud of the teams we have built and the opportunities we have created for customers who previously had little or no access to reliable broadband. Seeing the impact that fiber connectivity has on families, businesses, education, healthcare, and local economic development continues to be one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. 

Please describe the goals you would like to accomplish during your term as Fiber Broadband Association Board Member. 

If elected to the Fiber Broadband Association Board, I would help the Association prepare for what comes next. As BEAD-funded projects are completed and more communities gain access to fiber, the industry must focus on continuing to deliver customer value, remaining relevant as technology changes, and anticipating the challenges providers may face over the next five years. 

Throughout my career, I have learned that the best decisions start with curiosity, not assumptions. I would like to help ensure FBA continues listening to customers, understanding changing expectations, and helping members anticipate what’s ahead. Whether the challenge is competition, adoption, customer experience, emerging technologies, workforce development, or new uses for fiber networks, we need to keep our finger on the pulse of our industry and the communities we serve. 

I would also like to continue supporting leadership development and industry engagement, helping cultivate the next generation of leaders who will guide our industry forward. 

I bring a customer-focused perspective and a track record of turning ideas into action. My goal would be to help ensure FBA remains the leading voice for the fiber industry while continuing to deliver meaningful value to its members, customers, and communities. 

Please describe the level of commitment (in terms of time and effort) that you intend to make to the Association during the three-year term. 

I choose my commitments carefully, and when I make one, I give it my full effort. 

My responsibilities to MEC, our customers, and our employees will always come first. I would not seek a Board position without my organization’s full support and confidence that I can fulfill both my MEC responsibilities and my commitment to the Association. 

If elected, I will be an active and engaged Board member who comes prepared, follows through on commitments, and contributes in meaningful ways throughout my term. 

Please use this space to include any additional information you feel is important to share with voting members.   

Strong leadership begins with listening, staying curious, and keeping customers at the center of decisions. I also value strong relationships and bring positive energy, a collaborative approach, and a practical mindset to the work. 

If elected, I will bring that mindset to the Board and work with others to help the fiber industry remain responsive, relevant, and prepared for what comes next. 

Nominee Questionnaire

Please provide a short bio for voters to get to know you.  

I am Vice President of Government and Community Relations at EPB in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where I lead our government relations, community engagement and economic development efforts. I joined EPB in 2019 after spending more than a decade working in government and public policy, including serving in several roles with U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander. I am a Chattanooga native and have always believed that infrastructure is ultimately about creating opportunities for people and communities. At EPB, I have had the opportunity to work on initiatives ranging from broadband and digital equity to energy, economic development and emerging technologies. I currently serve as Vice Chair of the Fiber Broadband Association Board of Directors and am also Chairman of the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

Please summarize why you consider yourself an excellent candidate for the FBA Board of Directors? 

I will continue to bring a perspective to the Board that is useful because my work sits at the intersection of broadband, public policy, economic development and community impact. 

EPB has seen firsthand what happens when a community makes a long-term investment in fiber. It has changed how we think about education, economic development, energy, innovation and even what technologies our community can pursue next. 

I also believe board service means doing the work. During my current term, I have been actively involved in the Conference Committee, Public Policy Committee and in leadership of the Board. I served as Board Secretary in 2025 and now serve as Vice Chair. I would like to continue building on that work and helping FBA remain the leading voice for fiber and the communities, companies and people it serves. 

Describe your current position and functional responsibilities to your company.  

I serve as Vice President of Government and Community Relations for EPB. I lead our relationships with local, state and federal government partners as well as much of our work around community engagement, economic development and external strategic partnerships. 

My role also involves bringing people together around major initiatives that cross traditional business lines. That includes broadband, energy, workforce development, economic development, quantum, and efforts that create additional value for the communities we serve. 

A major part of my job is making sure EPB is engaged in the conversations that will shape the future of our industry and our community. 

What was your previous position, and how long did you hold that position before transitioning to your current one? 

I joined EPB in December 2019 as Director of Government Relations and served in that role for nearly four years before being promoted to Vice President of Government and Community Relations in September 2023. 

Do you have any experience as a member of a Board of Directors? If so please provide name of the entity and number of years of which you served.  

Yes. I currently serve on several boards and have had the opportunity to serve organizations at the local, state and national level. 

• Fiber Broadband Association Board of Directors – 3 years Currently serve as Vice-Chair 
• Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry – 4 years; Currently serve as Board Chair  
• Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority – 3 years;  
• Tennessee Municipal Electric Power Association – 5 years; currently serving in Board leadership 

How many years has your company been a Fiber Broadband Association Member? 

Over 18 years. EPB’s involvement with FBA goes back to the days of the FTTH Council. 

How many years have you participated in Fiber Broadband Association activities? 

5 Years

Please indicate any Fiber Broadband Association Committees or working groups you have participated on including position and years served. 

Conference Committee – 2022- Present (Chair, 2023-2025) 

Public Policy Committee – Member, 2023-present 

FBA Board of Directors – 2024-present 

Board Secretary – 2025 

Board Vice Chair – 2026    

Please list any Fiber Broadband Association Contributions (activities supported, assets developed, documents drafted, webinars presented, etc.) 

One of my largest areas of involvement has been the Conference Committee. As Chair, I have worked closely with FBA staff, members and industry leaders on the development of Fiber Connect programming as well as the Regional Fiber Connect events around the country. 

I have also participated in FBA public policy efforts, represented the Association at industry and policy events, participated in Fiber for Breakfast and other FBA programming, and worked to bring elected officials, broadband leaders, utilities and other stakeholders into FBA conversations. 

As a Board member and officer, I have also tried to be someone FBA can call when there is an opportunity to help, make a connection, participate in an event or advance the work of the Association.

Please provide a short overview of your experience with telecommunications, fiber optics, and FTTH technologies. 

My experience with fiber has focused on what the infrastructure makes possible for a community. At EPB, I have worked on efforts ranging from digital equity and HCS EdConnect to economic development, smart grid applications and advanced technologies. 

More recently, I have helped build Chattanooga’s quantum ecosystem by connecting EPB’s fiber and quantum infrastructure with universities, technology companies and government partners. 

Please describe the goals you would like to accomplish during your term as Fiber Broadband Association Board Member. 

I believe the next chapter for FBA is about making sure fiber is understood not just as broadband infrastructure, but as the infrastructure that will support the next generation of the economy. We have spent years fighting to get communities connected. We cannot stop there. The networks being built today will support AI, advanced energy systems, smart communities, quantum technologies, new business models and applications that may not even exist yet.  

I want FBA to help lead that conversation and make sure fiber is seen as the foundation those technologies depend on. I also want FBA to continue growing its influence with policymakers at every level. As technology moves faster, decisions around funding, permitting, workforce, cybersecurity, energy and emerging technologies are becoming more connected. Our industry needs to be at the table early, not reacting after those decisions are made. 

 I want us to keep expanding who sees themselves as part of the fiber ecosystem. That means bringing together traditional broadband providers with utilities, technology companies, economic development leaders, researchers, manufacturers and policymakers.

Please describe the level of commitment (in terms of time and effort) that you intend to make to the Association during the three-year term. 

I have made FBA a priority during my current term, whether that has meant Board meetings, committee calls, Fiber Connect, regional events, policy discussions or representing the Association externally. I understand the time commitment that comes with serving on this Board, especially as a Board officer, and I am prepared to continue making that commitment for another three years.

Please use this space to include any additional information you feel is important to share with voting members.   

Serving on this Board has deepened my appreciation for FBA and the people whose dedication drives the organization forward. 

The fiber industry is at a pivotal moment. After years of making the case for connecting communities, we must now lead the conversation about the economic opportunity, innovation and quality of life those connections enable. 

I want to continue to help FBA expand its reach, strengthen its voice, welcome more people into the organization and ensure that fiber remains central to the national conversation about America’s infrastructure and technology future. I ask for your vote and support and would be honored to continue serving you and the FBA community. 

Michael leads strategy and regulatory engagements for service providers, network operators, equipment vendors, investors, and regulatory authorities at Cartesian.

He has over 30 years of experience in the telecoms sector including 12 years in industry. Specific areas of expertise include fibre broadband, fixed-mobile convergence, enterprise services, network technology, and telecoms sector regulation. Michael has advised clients on opportunity sizing, entry option analysis, proposition development, and go-to-market planning.

Rich is the founder and president of Connect2 Communications, Inc. Since founding Connect2 in 2003, he has helped companies in telecommunications, networking, cybersecurity, data center, and other B2B technology markets develop and implement creative public relations and marketing strategies that enable each to achieve corporate, business and sales objectives. Before starting Connect2, Rich served as director of marketing and business development for Hatteras Networks, directing their brand and go-to-market strategy for their last-mile Ethernet platform encompassing direction of all PR and marketing communications activities. Prior to this, Rich was director of corporate communications at Sycamore Networks, leading Sycamore’s communications efforts from Initial Public Offering through the development of an integrated global public relations program, including secondary offering, acquisition, investments, regional launches and impact-of-market contraction. Rich began his career at the American Plastics Council, an industry group focused on environmental issues in Washington DC.