Episode 448: Kim Morrison and Ben Poppie on AI-Driven Fiber Deployment and the Future of Circet

In this episode of The Broadband Bunch, host Pete Pizzutillo joins Kim Morrison, Vice President of Growth and Customer Delivery, and Ben Poppie, Vice President of OSP, from Circet USA, at Fiber Connect 2025 in Nashville. Kim and Ben discuss Circet’s transition from KGP Services and how the company is leveraging its European roots to expand its presence and capabilities in the U.S. market. They reflect on the current state of the fiber industry, including the continued uncertainty surrounding BEAD funding, supply chain volatility, and workforce availability. The conversation highlights how Circet is using AI-driven design tools, developed by their team in Ireland, to create more efficient and cost-effective fiber networks in the U.S. They also touch on the growing importance of integrated services, from network design to operations and maintenance, and the value customers place on turnkey solutions. As private equity interest in telecom shifts and market conditions evolve, Kim and Ben offer a grounded perspective on how experienced players are navigating challenges, maintaining optimism, and preparing for long-term growth.