The success of the $42.5 billion Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program hinges on whether the United States can train enough skilled workers to meet tight deadlines, according to a study by Pew Charitable Trusts. A new brief warns that workforce shortages, training delays, and inconsistent job data could stall deployments.
The Department of Commerce's updated BEAD rules, issued June 6, 2025, may further complicate timelines by reopening provider selection and limiting workforce development funds. Already, 41 states and Washington, D.C. cite workforce gaps in their BEAD or now-canceled Digital Equity Act plans.
The roles in highest demand include fiber techs, network engineers, equipment operators and electricians—positions also sought by other industries. Without competitive wages, better training pipelines, and standardized job data, broadband goals may fall short, the study said. The report urged policymakers to address key barriers now or risk missing BEAD's promise of fast, affordable internet for every U.S. home.
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