October 4, 2011 – The 2011 Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) Conference & Expo concluded with an award ceremony recognizing FTTH industry achievers, and a broadband policy discussion highlighting the importance of all-fiber networks to economic recovery and growth.

Conference organizers say “traffic was brisk in the sold-out exhibit hall over the three days it was open”, adding that many of the learning sessions were standing-room only.

“All the activity and interest at this year’s show was a clear indication that our communities are looking to the [FTTH] industry—and, specifically, to the applications and services that all-fiber networks make possible—to help them and their citizens compete in the 21st century global economy,” said Kyle Hollifield of BVU Authority, conference chair.

At the closing general session, the conference heard an discussion led by the FTTH Council’s Washington counsel, Tom Cohen of Kelley, Drye & Warren LLP. One of the participants was Blair Levin of the Aspen Institute Communications & Society Program, who led the FCC’s effort to develop the National Broadband Plan and is currently leading Gig U. (an initiative to bring superfast broadband connectivity to communities where America’s leading research universities are located). Also participating in the discussion were Rick Whitt, director of telecom and media policy at Google, and Michael Romano, senior VP of policy at NTCA.

Meantime, the FTTH Council also presented its industry awards:

Chairman’s Award – Google
This award, given at the discretion of the chair of the FTTH Council board, singles out an individual or company that has shown tremendous effort to promote, educate or accelerate fiber. “This year, Google was the one company that has done more than any other organization in pointing out the critical importance of all-fiber networks to community leaders and citizens across the country, and to get them active in promoting the value of fiber for their future,” said the FTTH Council. Rick Whitt, Google’s director of telecom and media policy, accepted the award on behalf of the company.

Photon Award – John George, director, systems and applications engineering, OFS
This award recognizes an FTTH Council member or members who, through their volunteer contribution, have demonstrated a high level of dedication to the organization and contribution to the industry. “For several years, John George has headed up the organization of the learning program at the annual FTTH Conference & Expo; all the track sessions, industry panels and white papers,” said the council. “It takes a lot of skill and commitment of time.”

Star Award – Legend Conference Planning
This award recognizes a person, community or company that has gone above and beyond what is expected in the advancement of fiber to the home. This year’s award recognizes the important contributions of Legend Conference Planning which, for seven years, has operated the FTTH Council secretariat and has organized the annual FTTH Conference & Expo. Accepting the award was the company’s president and CEO, Laura Chajkowski.