In this episode of Fiber for Breakfast, we explore how Maryland is pioneering a first-of-its-kind “Single View” of all public broadband and digital infrastructure assets. This statewide platform centralizes planning and coordination by mapping everything from vertical assets and real estate ownership to existing networks, connectivity gaps, and future community needs. The approach is already delivering major results, including more than $3.5 million in savings on a recent ARC broadband grant. 

Eric Bathras, Chief Technology Officer for Maryland’s Office of Infrastructure, joins FBA President & CEO Gary Bolton to explain how this Goldilocks strategy—one investment serving many needs—helps states optimize resources, address un(der)served areas, and support transportation systems and community anchor institutions. 

Register now to learn how a unified infrastructure view can accelerate broadband expansion and drive more cost-effective digital policy. 

With Special Guests:

• Eric Bathras, CTO for the Office of ​Infrastructure​ at the Maryland Department of Information Technology 

Read the full Fiber for Breakfast summary article here!

As the U.S. population ages, the demand for solutions that help seniors live independently is accelerating, while the healthcare and senior care workforce faces a growing staffing crisis. In this episode, Elizabeth Parks, President & CMO of Parks Associates, joins Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, to unpack new research on the evolving market for independent living solutions for older adults. The conversation explores seniors’ desire for independence, family caregivers’ awareness and expectations, and the technologies gaining traction—from smart home systems and medical alerts to fall detection, mobility aids, home modifications, and community-based services. Elizabeth shares key insights into adoption barriers, trusted information channels, and practical strategies to overcome challenges, highlighting how connectivity and broadband-enabled solutions like fiber can play a critical role in supporting aging Americans.

With Special Guests:

• Elizabeth Parks, President & CMO of Parks Associates

Read the full Fiber for Breakfast summary article here!

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by Brandy Reitter, Colorado’s State Broadband Officer, for a deep dive into the state’s broadband strategy following the “benefit of the bargain.” Brandy unpacks Colorado’s updated broadband plan, highlighting how the state is using a mix of technologies to serve communities with diverse needs—including how tribal locations influence deployment decisions. 

She also explains Colorado’s definition of reliable broadband and why it differs from the NTIA’s—offering valuable insight for providers preparing for the next funding rounds. Brandy joins Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association, to discuss and celebrate the critical role local ISPs and operators have played in Colorado’s success. 

Finally, she looks ahead to priorities for non-deployment funding, and how the state plans to build long-term resilience, digital equity, and operational excellence across all communities. 

With Special Guests:

• Brandy Reitter, Colorado’s State Broadband Office

Read the full Fiber for Breakfast summary article here!

After years of planning, the BEAD program is moving from paper to pavement—but approval is only the start. In this first episode of 2026, Kathryn de Wit, director of The Pew Charitable Trusts’ broadband access initiative, joins Fiber Broadband Association President & CEO Gary Bolton to examine what comes next as states begin building networks to reach nearly five million locations. Kathryn unpacks NTIA’s evolving guidance, the “curing” process, and the challenges ahead—from permitting and workforce shortages to supply chain pressures and non-deployment funding uncertainty. If you’re asking, “proposals are approved—now what?” this episode offers timely, practical insight into the work ahead and what it will take to turn BEAD’s ambition into lasting broadband impact. 

With Special Guests:

• Kathryn de Wit, director of The Pew Charitable Trusts’ broadband access initiative

Read the full Fiber for Breakfast summary article here!

What does 2026 hold for the future of fiber—and for the people shaping it? Join Jessica Koch, Controller at Consolidated Business Services and FBA Conference Committee Chair and Evann Freeman, VP, Government & Community Relations, EPB and FBA’s Board Vice Chair and Conference Committee Board Liaison as they pull back the curtain on next year’s vision, offering a look at why Fiber Connect continues to position our industry light years ahead. They will also walk through the seven brand-new Regional Fiber Connect Workshops rolling out across the country and showcase bold, new programming for Fiber Connect 2026, taking place May 17–20 in Orlando. If you’re looking for insight, inspiration, and a glimpse of where the industry is headed, this episode sets the stage

With Special Guests:

• Jessica Koch, Controller at Consolidated Business Services and FBA Conference Committee Chair
• Evann Freeman, VP, Government & Community Relations, EPB and FBA’s Board Vice Chair and Conference Committee Board Liaison

Read the full Fiber for Breakfast summary article here!

In the last Fiber for Breakfast episode of 2025, Gary welcomes the Senior Director, Field and Partner Marketing at Adtran and the 2026 FBA Board Chair, Ash Brown. Ash will review FBA Board priorities for 2026, and will share FBA Policy updates and plans to engage with her constituents and the FBA working groups in the new year. Ash will also share the latest on Adtran. 

With Special Guest:

• Ash Brown, Senior Director, Field and Partner Marketing at Adtran and the 2026 FBA Board Chair

Read the full Fiber for Breakfast summary article here!