Opinion: Broadband partnerships drive progress in rural Alaska

In rural Alaska, where nature stretches as far as the eye can see, connectivity isn’t just a luxury; it’s a lifeline. Access to high-speed internet can mean the difference between isolation and opportunity. It opens the door to education, health care, economic development, and cultural exchange, providing a level playing field for all.

Last week, I had the opportunity to speak at the Federation of Alaska Natives (AFN)’s Alaska Day in Washington, D.C., where I emphasized the need for partnerships to advance Alaska’s progress.

A common theme emerged. Through collaborative efforts, common challenges also create common prospects for growth and success. In other words, where there is mutual difficulty, we can find mutual opportunity.

At Quintillion, we are guided by four pillars that shape every aspect of our work. Sustainable asset operation and maintenance. Providing affordable services to everyone. Ensure scalability for future generations. These pillars are more than lofty ideals; they are the foundation of our commitment to Alaska and its people.

The robustness and resiliency of our network is of paramount importance and is achieved through investments in projects such as the Nome to Homer Express. This project, funded by the U.S. government and Quintillion, will expand broadband access, improve network reliability, and ensure service continuity by bridging the digital divide with a diverse fiber ring. .

When completed, this infrastructure initiative will connect Emmonak, Naknek, King Salmon, Igiuzi and Homer, allowing service providers to expand and improve broadband service to these underserved areas.

Quintillion is also leading efforts to secure federal grants to serve underserved areas such as Mountain Village and St. Lawrence Island, working with local communities to develop We identify and respond to needs.

But bringing new high-speed internet access to rural Alaska communities is only part of the equation. Alaskans also need a network that can withstand the cruel realities that Mother Nature is sure to bring.

That’s why Quintillion and others are seeking Federal Emergency Management Agency Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (FEMA BRIC) grants to build backup infrastructure and ensure network reliability. We are coming together.

Earlier this year, we announced our partnership with the Arctic Slope Inupiat community and were proud to apply for this $30 million grant. This grant will help fund the installation of a land-based fiber optic cable that will create a redundant and resilient route between Oriktok Point and Oriktok Point. Utčavik.

Investing strategically in strengthening communications infrastructure in Alaska is also important to U.S. national security. Greater connectivity and resilience will enable the United States to compete effectively with other Arctic nations and protect its interests.

U.S. leaders, including Alaska’s Congressional delegation, believe that near-peer competitors Russia and China are seeking to dominate this region of the world by gaining advantages in strategic defense posture, natural resources, and commercial shipping routes. I know very well what I am doing. Broadband is fundamental infrastructure if the United States pursues a sustainable Arctic strategy.

As we look to the future, we see endless possibilities for partnerships and collaborations that will bring high-speed internet to every corner of our state and, along the way, open up new opportunities for prosperity, growth, and security. We would like to thank AFN and its associates for the opportunity last week to say hello to us, especially Julie Kitka, Nicole Borromeo, Ben Marotte, Anna Hoffman, and Joe Nelson . Our common mission is simple. It’s about connecting Alaska in more ways than one.

By promoting trust, transparency and integrity, we are building more than just a network. We will continue to work collaboratively with Alaskans for a brighter future for all who call this great state home.

Michael “Mac” McHale He is president of Quintillion, an Alaska-based infrastructure provider that provides broadband connectivity, satellite ground stations, and edge processing services in the U.S. Arctic and Alaska.

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