Intelligent CIO North America Issue 58 | Page 48

COUNTRY FOCUS: FLORIDA
Broadband Nation is a timely initiative to attract, train and deliver the workforce needed to bring high-speed digital communications services to all Floridians.

Broadband Nation launches initiative to upgrade Florida communications infrastruct

Broadband Nation, in partnership with the Telecommunications Industry Association( TIA) and Fierce Network’ s parent company Questex, is spearheading a major initiative to build the skilled workforce necessary to upgrade Florida’ s communications infrastructure to ensure every Floridian has access to high-speed reliable internet.

With the influx of government investments such as the BEAD program, there is a historic opportunity to expand high-speed internet access across the United States, ensuring that every resident has reliable, affordable connectivity by 2030. Florida has been allocated $ 1.16 billion in BEAD funds to help achieve this goal.
In Florida alone, approximately 170,000 locations need to be connected to broadband. Meeting this demand will require over 20,000 trained workers in roles such as fiber / coax installation, customer service, cell tower maintenance, network technology, construction and more.
“ In partnering with Florida’ s state and technical colleges – including Miami Dade College, the Florida Department of Education, CareerSource Florida, Local Workforce Development Boards, the REACH Office and other public and private sector stakeholders, we are building the workforce needed to support Florida’ s broadband industry,” said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly.
“ With the 2025 – 2026 Focus on Fiscal Responsibility budget, Governor DeSantis will have investment more than $ 10 billion in workforce education – leading to economic prosperity for Florida families and
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