FFB Episode 272: Tight Today, Transformational Tomorrow: A Historic Moment for Fiber

Fiber demand has reached a historic inflection point. In this episode of Fiber for Breakfast, Mike O’Day, head of Corning's Optical Communications business joins Gary Bolton, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association and shares his perspective on a remarkable growth cycle as innovation accelerates and AI takes center stage. Mike explains how broadband expansion and the rapid buildout of AI infrastructure are reinforcing one another -- creating shortterm supply pressure, but an even larger, longterm opportunity for the industry. Today’s market is tight because the opportunity is big. Mike will discuss how Corning, celebrating its 175th year, is staying close to customers, investing in capacity, innovating to solve customer problems, and strengthening partnerships with rural operators. Mike will also highlight Corning's commitment to support BEAD with BABA-compliant components through the life of the program. Mike describes a virtuous cycle where more AI infrastructure leads to new AI applications, which fuels broadband demand -- which in turn requires more AI infrastructure. The takeaway is clear: BEAD and AI aren’t competing priorities — they’re part of the same growth cycle, with benefits extending far beyond fiber to communities and the broader digital economy. Register now to attend! With Special Guest: Michael O'Day, Sr. VP & GM, Optical Communications, Corning