Strengthening Communities Through Rural Broadband Connectivity
Case Studies
Connecting Rural Hospitals – University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS)
MdBC Certified All Fiber by the Fiber Broadband Association
MdBC & Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC): Advancing Western Maryland Connectivity
ThinkBig Networks & Charles County Expansion
MDBC’S INDIAN HEAD FIBER EXPANSION
MdBC’s Chesapeake Bay Crossing
Training Program
Empowering Local Talent Through Workforce Development Initiatives
By nurturing local talent, we help drive the growth and success of our communities, ensuring that our workforce remains skilled and competitive.
In partnership with the Lower Shore Workforce Alliance and the State of Maryland’s investment in workforce development, along with academic institutions such as Parkside High School, Sussex Technical High School, Worcester County Technical High School, and Salisbury University, Maryland Broadband Cooperative has hosted workforce development programs in areas including GIS, fiber optic splicing, network technician training, public relations, and community impact.
Example Program (Funding Now Expired):
Our On-the-Job Training (OJT) Program was a cornerstone of our commitment to community development and workforce enhancement. This comprehensive, paid training initiative spanned 330 hours over 11 weeks and was designed for individuals with minimal to no prior experience. Participants gained hands-on skills in key areas such as fiber splicing, networking, project management, and utility locating. By offering these opportunities, we played a vital role in equipping local talent with the expertise needed to contribute to our growing industry and community.
Continuing Connectivity Advancements
In partnership with Atlantic General Hospital, Maryland Broadband Cooperative has secured significant funding from the Rural Healthcare Fund managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). This award supports our ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare connectivity, ensuring that high-quality medical services are accessible through advanced broadband technology. Our commitment to improving connectivity in healthcare settings exemplifies our broader mission to foster innovation and support critical community infrastructure.
Causes We Support
