Ramping Up a Fiber Build and Navigating Roadblocks

Presented at ISE EXPO in Dallas, Texas, on August 21, 2024

Four experts who span the breadth of fiber deployment will discuss the challenges of generating and maintaining the momentum needed for an expansive fiber build in rural and suburban communities. Attendees will learn not only about the hurdles faced in each phase of a fiber build but also how the industry can take a more unified approach to efficiently bridging the digital divide. 

Session duration: 1 hour

About the Presenters

Greg Harlan is currently Regional Sales Director for HPT Communication covering Oklahoma and Texas. He has been in the cable industry for over 40 years and a member of the SCTE since 1985. Throughout his career his focus has been on the technical aspects of the industry consistently working with the front-line techs building and training for a more competent workforce.

Sherry Hessenthaler brings more than 35 years of telecom industry experience to her role as Brightspeed’s Chief Corporate Development Officer. She was part of the early team that helped transition through the company’s launch in October 2022. She led the team responsible for the strategic planning, engineering and construction of the multi-year deployment of XGS-PON and 100G+ fiber broadband network to rural and suburban communities across Brightspeed’s 20-state footprint prior to assuming the position of Chief Corporate Development Officer in February 2024.

Bobby Mayhew, with almost 30 years in telecommunications, is the Engineering Lead for GFiber’s largest operating region. His expertise in Operations, Engineering, and People Management spans multiple sectors, including the US Army, ILECs, MSOs, and overbuilders. Known for his eagerness to learn from others, Bobby is thrilled to participate in a panel at ISE EXPO.

Chris Shaddock brings over 21 years of expertise in telecommunications construction and engineering to his role as a Vice President of Operations at Engineering Associates. His team has been pivotal in the design, permitting, and construction of over 8,300 miles of Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) and broadband networks in the past five years alone. Chris and his team have successfully navigated complex projects and regulatory landscapes, driving value for their customers and their customers’ customers.