Jane Edwards
Nokia has partnered with Fabrinet to produce optical modules for fiber broadband networks at the latter’s Santa Clara, California-based facility in support of the Department of Commerce’s Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program.
BEAD is administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration and seeks to provide $42.45 billion in funding to broaden high-speed internet access across the U.S., Nokia said Wednesday.
Nokia said it expects the optical module production process to kick off in 2024 and generate additional jobs in the U.S.
“Working alongside the Department of Commerce and Fabrinet, we’re excited to add optical modules to the list of technology solutions that will be produced here in the U.S. and become available to programs like BEAD which are so critical to bridging the digital divide,” said Sandy Motley, president of fixed networks at Nokia.
In early August, Nokia signed an agreement with Sanmina to manufacture fiber-optic broadband electronics at a facility in Kenosha County, Wisconsin, for use in the BEAD program.
