Chris Skelton, a broadband industry veteran of 30 years, has been named chief technology officer for Fiber Utility Network. The network is eight electric co-ops, co-op subsidiaries, and other partners whose common goal is to expand middle-mile broadband throughout the state.
“Throughout my career in the broadband industry, I’ve tried to improve service for areas that need it most,” said Skelton. “I’m excited about the robust fiber connections that FUN will deliver to last-mile broadband providers and help them expand their services into all areas of Alabama.”
FUN Board Chairman and Central Alabama Electric Cooperative President/CEO Tom Stackhouse cited Skelton’s background for his hiring.
“Chris has roots in Alabama and brings 30 years of experience in the broadband industry. His understanding of the need for broadband in today’s environment gives him deep insights into the technological, financial, and operational challenges of building cutting-edge networks,” said Stackhouse.
“His unique skillset and background are the perfect fit as we begin to offer high-bandwidth, high-value and resilient broadband services to last-mile broadband providers throughout the state.”
Skelton began his broadband career with Comcast, holding various regional and corporate leadership positions. After Comcast, Skelton was an engineering consultant director for Huntsville Utilities’ fiber project and then chief technology and operations officer for a national ISP company.
FUN includes Central Alabama Electric Cooperative, Coosa Valley Electric Cooperative, Covington Electric Cooperative, Cooperative Connection LLC (a subsidiary of Cullman Electric Cooperative), JWEMC Communications LLC (a subsidiary of Joe Wheeler Electric Membership Cooperative), North Alabama Electric Cooperative, Tombigbee Electric Cooperative, and PowerSouth Energy Cooperative. Alabama Power is the fiber lease partner.
In September 2022, Gov. Kay Ivey announced that FUN would receive an $82,450,000 grant through the American Rescue Plan Act for the creation of a statewide middle-mile network.
When completed, this 3,000-mile network consisting of both existing and new fiber infrastructure will stretch across the entire state. The network will deliver direct high-speed connection for those companies providing broadband service to Alabama residences and businesses.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.
