AFL's Role during Fiber Connect 2024
Last month, AFL sponsored and exhibited at the Fiber Broadband Association’s Fiber Connect 2024 with the theme of “Accelerating Our Fiber Future.” This event, held during a pivotal time of broadband expansion, brought together industry leaders, innovators and experts to explore the future of fiber technology.
From the very start, the AFL team was ready to conquer Fiber Connect. We showcased our Apex® Fiber Optic Splice Closure family, Switchblade® Fiber Containment Vault, Fujikura 90R and 45S Fusion Splicers, along with a selection of our test and inspection equipment. Through hands-on demonstrations, our team showcased how our products and solutions can help support our customers in this unique and transformative period for broadband expansion and deployment.
Pictured Above: Members of AFL's Sales Team and Business Units
On Monday, July 29, AFL’s Will Miller, Program Manager for Rural Broadband, participated in a General Session titled “Middle Mile Networks: Defining the Road Ahead.” This session was instrumental in addressing the critical challenges and opportunities within middle mile networks. Middle mile networks, which connect the backbone of the internet to local networks, are crucial for expanding broadband access, especially in rural areas.
Pictured Above: AFL's Will Miller participates in a General Session
Miller highlighted the necessity of federal funds to support these networks and discussed the pivotal role of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding in building out these infrastructures. His insights underscored the importance of leveraging existing rights of way (ROW) with unique fiber optic cabling solutions to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all communities can benefit from high-speed internet access.
Josh Simer, AFL’s Market Manager for Service Providers and MSOs, also participated in a breakout session titled “Deployment Methodologies: What Technologies Fit Like a Glove.” This session explored the practical challenges of deploying fiber networks, focusing on issues encountered once the preliminary planning phase is complete and boots are on the ground. Simer emphasized the labor shortfall and its impact on construction plans, stressing the need for consistency and best practices during installation. In particular, he noted the development of AI tools to help with training and installation, including one that AFL is currently trialing with the Apex Splice Closure.
Pictured Above: AFL's Josh Simer, seated on the far right, participates in a breakout session
Simer also stressed the concept of building a SAFER network, one that is Sustainable, Accessible, Flexible, Expandable and Reliable, while further emphasizing sustainability as a core principle.
Simer’s emphasis on sustainability is particularly relevant in today’s environmentally-conscious world. He stressed the importance of designing networks that minimize adverse environmental impacts and support users’ sustainability goals. AFL’s Switchblade is an innovative solution that illustrates our commitment to sustainability. This product enhances sustainability and efficiency in transportation and supply chains through its folding design, which reduces shipping costs and storage space. By decreasing the number of trucks needed, it significantly lowers energy usage and emissions.
This year’s Fiber Connect highlighted the critical role of fiber technology in shaping the future. AFL’s participation in the event highlighted our commitment to leading innovation in fiber broadband deployment and expansion. Partner with AFL to help build a brighter, more connected future and learn how we can Connect America Together!