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BEAD Funding Roundtable: Is Rural Broadband Expansion Set Up to Succeed?

The latest episode of Wavelengths discusses the future of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding. Industry experts evaluate the successes and challenges of the program. The panel also examines the long-term implications for U.S. broadband infrastructure.

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By Software And Technology · · AirebeamAmphenolBeadBen Elkins
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Key takeaways

01

Experts weigh in on BEAD funding's future and its 2023 progress.

02

All states and territories have submitted BEAD funding proposals.

03

Roundtable assesses implementation successes and strategic challenges.

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In a timely and important episode about the deployment and execution of federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding, several telecommunications experts weighed in on the program's future. With 2023 coming to a close, this conversation about BEAD comes at the right time as it marks a year filled with substantial updates and progress in broadband infrastructure initiatives. The BEAD initiative, part of a broader effort to revitalize and expand broadband infrastructure in the U.S., has seen significant progress over the year. Now, with all states and territories having submitted their BEAD funding proposals, this episode delves into the critical phase of this transformative project. The stakes are high as this funding aims to reshape and improve America's digital landscape.

This subsequently raises the question, how effectively are the BEAD funds being managed and allocated, and what are the broader implications for U.S. broadband infrastructure?

For a new episode of "Wavelengths," an Amphenol Broadband Solutions podcast, host Daniel Litwin brought together an impressive panel for a major roundtable discussion on BEAD funding. He was joined by Zachary Raley, SVP and Advisor to the CEO of Amphenol, Ben Elkins, CEO of AireBeam, and Diana Goovaerts, Executive Editor at Fierce Telecom Group/Silverlinings. The episode made a deep dive into the state of BEAD funding, exploring its achievements, challenges, and future trajectory.

Several points tackled during the episode included:

  • An evaluation of the successes and obstacles encountered in implementing BEAD funding.
  • Assessing the strategic adequacy of proposals submitted by all 56 states and territories.
  • Insights into the expected long-term effects of BEAD funding on U.S. broadband expansion.

Zachary Raley is a seasoned advisor at Amphenol and its SVP. He has a unique perspective on equipment and hardware essential for broadband expansion. Ben Elkins is the CEO of AireBeam and provides an operator's viewpoint and is an expert on the success of the BEAD program in Arizona. Diana Goovaerts offers an editorial lens, discussing the broader context and critical issues surrounding BEAD funding.

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About the Experts

SA
Software And Technology

Host, Wavelengths

Wavelengths is a podcast presented by Daniel Litwin. He facilitates discussions on important technological advancements and challenges.

ZR
Zachary Raley

SVP and Advisor to the CEO

Amphenol

Zachary Raley is a seasoned advisor at Amphenol and its SVP. He brings strategic insight into the firm's technological services.

BE
Ben Elkins

CEO

AireBeam

Ben Elkins is the CEO of AireBeam, a leading provider of broadband services that focuses on delivering connectivity solutions.

DG
Diana Goovaerts

Executive Editor

Fierce Telecom Group/Silverlinings

Diana Goovaerts is an experienced journalist, serving as Executive Editor at Fierce Telecom Group, where she covers developments in telecom industries.

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