From innovative product demos to in-depth conversations on the latest trends in network infrastructure, this year’s ISE EXPO 2024 delivered in Dallas with over 2440 attendees! JSA EVPs Kelly Stark and Dyanne Williamson were onsite and on the move to take in all the event had to offer.
Here’s a closer look at some of the key themes that emerged from the conference.
Network Evolution and Reliability: Preparing for the Future
The continuous evolution of network infrastructure to prepare for the future stood out as a major theme throughout ISE EXPO 2024. The event kicked off with a keynote by Frontier’s SVP Scott Mispagel, who shared how Frontier’s mission to deliver fiber quickly and efficiently led the company to a 45% take rate across its fiber footprint in 2024. Scott also shared how the Network Engineering and Operations team’s innovative and agile processes helped overcome field challenges and improve network efficiencies despite a reduction in CAPEX ($3.0 billion in 2024 versus $3.2 in 2023), and how his team is leveraging new technologies like Wi-Fi 7 and Network-as-a-Service to make the math work.
Many sessions focused on integrating AI, optimizing DC microgrids, and preparing networks for the growing number of connected devices, including those supporting 25G, 50G, and beyond. Experts emphasized the importance of designing networks with flexibility and resilience built in, ensuring they can adapt to future demands without needing constant overhauls. Sessions covered everything from mobile edge computing and wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) strategies to the role of automation in maintaining quality of service and reducing latency. The focus was on long-term efficiency with an emphasis on how building with the future in mind ultimately saves costs and enhances performance.
The theme of preparing for the future was also strong across the expo floor with booth’s buzzing with innovation. Kelly and Dyanne met with a variety of exhibitors, including Dean Unkel who offered a hands-on look at Go!Foton’s unique fiber panels with spreadable adaptors.
Broadband and Digital Equity: Collaboration is Key
The digital divide remains a critical issue and many sessions addressed how communities, ISPs, and government entities can work together to bridge this gap. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) were highlighted as an effective way to bring broadband to underserved areas, especially in rural regions.
One session focused on the challenges of navigating the “Build America, Buy America” (BABA) statute and how it impacts funding programs like BEAD. Experts shared strategies for maximizing grant opportunities and executing broadband deployment projects efficiently. Kelly and Dyanne especially enjoyed speaking with Randell René, Director of Telecom Industry Solutions at Esri about ArcGIS mapping and their new Atlas of the World, which provides the data needed for designing BEAD networks across America. The discussions were particularly relevant given the ongoing push to bring high-speed internet access to every corner of the country.
Leadership and Workforce Development: Empowering the Industry’s Future
Leadership and workforce development emerged as central topics, especially in the context of driving the industry forward and working with the government and communities. Sessions offered insights on transitioning from a subject matter expert to a strategic leader, emphasizing the importance of communication, delegation, and fostering a culture of collaboration.
A highlight for Kelly was the Women in Telecom (WIT) panel, which was both inspiring and uplifting with discussions centered around work-life balance. The session featured female leaders who offered practical advice for thriving in a diverse workplace, touching on a variety of topics including the importance of “being present” and finding your management style to the support of working mothers and the emotional journey of approaching retirement. Speakers included Nancy White, NJW ASSOCIATES; Katie Curtis, Great Plains Communications;Jennifer Prather, Telecom Communications; and Alexandria Martinez, Brightspeed. As a fun bonus, Kelly was thrilled to win a beautiful purse and chocolates from Fiber Cabling Solutions Technology (FCST). The panel was a reminder that, while the telecom industry is fast-paced, taking care of oneself is just as important as taking care of business. The session concluded with panel attendees each receiving the book “Meditations for Women Who Do Too Much”.
Celebrating Innovation: Recognizing Industry Leaders
Another standout aspect of the ISE EXPO 2024 was the recognition of companies leading the charge in innovation. The 2024 ISE Network Innovators’ Awards celebrated their contributions to advancing technology and shaping the future of the industry. Fujitsu Network Communications stood out for tackling these challenges, winning an Innovator Award for their 1FINITY T900 solution, which is designed to optimize state-of-the-art optical networks while addressing sustainability.
Congratulations to all the 2024 ISE Network Innovators’ Awards winners, including::
– AFL
– Corning Optical Communications
– Cyber Power Systems (USA), Inc.
– Emtelle
– Enginuity Communications
– Esri
– Fujitsu Network Communications
– Harmonic
– HFCL Limited
– Jameson Tools
– Lightyear
– NewBasis LLC
– Precision Optical Technologies, Inc.
– Prysmian
– Superior Essex Communications
– VCTI
– VeEX Inc.
– VETRO, Inc.
– Zyxel Communications
These companies are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and setting new standards for innovation in the telecom industry.
What’s Next?
As first-time attendees, Kelly and Dyanne found the ISE EXPO 2024 to be a valuable experience and enjoyed networking with some past colleagues. The event not only showcased the latest advancements in network technology but also highlighted the importance of collaboration, leadership, and innovation. We are already looking forward to what next year’s event in New Orleans has in store. It’s clear that the future of telecom is bright, and JSA is excited to be part of it!
For updates on next year’s ISE Expo in New Orleans on July 29-31, 2025, visit ISEexpo.com.
JSA participates in industry conferences all over the world – to see where we are going next, follow us on JSA’s LinkedIn page.
