Inside Fiber Connect 2025: Navigating Deployment Challenges with Ashley Travers
June 20, 2025
The path to nationwide fiber connectivity is rarely smooth—and at Fiber Connect 2025, that reality took center stage. As part of a panel on deployment challenges, Ashley Travers, VP of Partner Strategy & Business Development at KGPCo, joined fellow industry leaders to discuss the operational, regulatory, and workforce hurdles shaping the future of broadband expansion.
Planning is the Game-Changer
Throughout the discussion, a key theme emerged: planning isn’t just important—it’s everything. From managing complex permitting processes to aligning materials and labor, Travers emphasized that successful deployments begin long before shovels hit the ground.
“We often say construction is messy—but chaos isn’t inevitable,” said Travers. “The more we plan collaboratively with ISPs, municipalities, and vendors, the more likely we are to keep crews productive, communities informed, and projects on schedule.”
Permitting and Local Coordination
Permitting remains one of the industry’s biggest bottlenecks. Travers advocated for more standardized permitting templates, early communication with local governments, and widespread adoption of electronic permitting systems to improve transparency and reduce delays.
She also stressed the importance of community engagement, encouraging ISPs and construction teams to build trust through proactive communication, local hotlines, and even grassroots marketing efforts during builds.
Supply Chain Pressure: The Next Wave
With BEAD funding delays creating uncertainty, Travers warned of a potential supply chain “pile-up” once multiple states move forward at the same time. This scenario could spark material shortages, price spikes, and a scramble for skilled labor.
“The window between ‘go’ and ‘gone’ is getting narrower,” she noted. “If you’re not planning material procurement now, you risk being left behind when demand hits all at once.”
BABA Compliance and Manufacturing Readiness
Travers highlighted the investments many U.S. suppliers have made in BABA-compliant manufacturing, and the need to ensure those resources are activated as soon as projects are greenlit. She cautioned that if states wait too long, crews could shift to other markets, putting BEAD goals in jeopardy.
Cross-Training for Agility
Amid these delays, KGPCo has used the time wisely. Travers shared how the company has taken the opportunity to cross-train internal teams, preparing for faster mobilization when demand ramps back up.
“Being agile means more than speed—it’s about capability,” she said. “By investing in our people today, we’re positioned to scale smarter tomorrow.”
Looking Ahead
With funding uncertainty, labor scarcity, and complex permitting processes on the horizon, fiber deployment isn’t getting easier—but KGPCo is ready. Through strategic planning, operational discipline, and trusted partnerships, we continue to support providers across the country in delivering next-generation connectivity.
Ready to Move Forward? Let’s Talk.
Are you ready to secure your share of BEAD funding and expand your broadband network the right way? KGPCo is here to help.
[[email protected]] | [www.kgpco.com] | [+1 (800) 328-5142]
Let’s build the future of connectivity—together.
