Workforce Shortages Threaten BEAD Deployments: Broadband Breakfast Panelists
Workforce development experts warn that critical shortages could significantly slow the nationwide deployment of broadband.
WASHINGTON, Jan. 15, 2026 — As states move forward with deploying billions in federal broadband funding, workforce development experts warned Wednesday that critical labor shortages threaten to slow infrastructure buildout across the country.
During a Broadband Breakfast Live Online webcast, panelists highlighted significant gaps in skilled tradespeople needed for fiber optic installation, construction and network maintenance, jobs that require training beyond high school but not a four-year degree.
"The gaps are among those skilled tradespeople," said Caroline Treschitta, senior government affairs manager at National Skills Coalition. "We have a lot of folks who have a four-year degree in advanced mechanics and advanced engineering, but it's those skilled training for broadband installation like fiber optic technicians, construction workers, etcetera. Those are where some of the critical gaps are," she said.
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