ROHL Global Networks
The Rapid Transformation of the Telecommunications Industry

Chad Szklaruk, Chief Executive Officer, USA:Jason Rohl, President

The telecommunications industry is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by the trifecta of 5G technology, increased demand for high-speed internet and the integration of AI and IoT devices. In today’s world, access to the internet is considered as essential as clean water, power and emergency services. However, government programs aimed at bringing high-speed internet to small communities and regional ISPs often fall short in serving rural, remote and First Nations/tribal communities due to their limited timeframes. These areas require a unique approach to land stewardship, consultation and engagement, necessitating time and presence.

ROHL Global Networks: Leading the Way

ROHL Global Networks is effectively leveraging its technical expertise, extensive equipment fleet and robust logistics and project management capabilities to serve the remote and underserved areas of the U.S. Originally started as a small family business building rural roads in 1967, ROHL has grown to become a leading firm in network design, installation and deployment in northern and remote locations of North America. Its network footprint provides opportunities for service expansion into new communities and transitioning congested microwave networks to terabit fiber optics.

“Having successfully implemented broadband in over 25 First Nations/tribal communities through FTTH and FWA, we have firsthand experience in transforming grant funds into operational broadband solutions,” says Chad Szklaruk, CEO, U.S. “Our track record of timely delivery consistently surpasses grant deadlines, ensuring that each community receives reliable connectivity promptly.”

Challenging projects are ROHL Global Networks’ calling card. While most providers avoid them or inflate risk premiums, the persistence of visionary Jason Rohl, President, has paid off. The firm has been operating one of the longest northern fiber backbones in Canada for the past 20 years.

While developing networks for the most remote communities involving taxpayer money, there is incredible tension to manage costs but also turning over an inexpensive network for the provider to operate.

Adapting to an Evolving Landscape

ROHL Global Networks has adapted to the evolving landscape of long-haul fiber networks, where capacity per wavelength is increasing from gigabytes to terabytes, and there is a growing emphasis on extending services to smaller communities and mobility infrastructure. Originally, our network was designed to maximize the distance between regeneration sites and minimize equipment and operational costs.

Last year, the leadership team initiated a self-funded refresh of the fiber network. This project involved overbuilding 435 miles of the existing network with new fiber, tripling the route’s capacity. Strategic access points have been designed to serve towers and communities along the route, providing essential access to the backbone infrastructure required by broadband programs. The network now serves small communities and is the primary connection for the Canadian Territories and a terrestrial path from Alaska to the continental U.S.

Success in Renewable Energy Ventures

Honing its craft in underground utility construction has led to several successful ventures for ROHL. Ten years ago, the company identified an opportunity to re-tool its experienced underground residential distribution operations for the rapidly growing renewable energy market. The 2023 solar and wind power construction season was the largest on record for the firm, with over 800,000 linear feet of renewable energy construction completed across North America.

Partnerships with First Nations Communities

One notable partnership is with First Nations communities and network operators. The initiative began by offering fiber access to administrative buildings and schools. Engaging with Indigenous leaders and local businesses, ROHL Global Networks expanded the program to include fiber-to-the-home services. Additionally, the company initiated training and skill development during the project to ensure local teams had the operational know-how to manage the network and respond promptly, even in the most remote locations.

Maintaining Family Values Amid Growth

Despite tremendous growth, ROHL has maintained its family values orientation. The company takes pride in the organizational culture cultivated over years of hard work, dedication and celebrating successes. Many employees have been with the company for over 20 years, a testament to its culture of fostering career development and growth. ROHL Global Networks creates an environment where everyone has the opportunity to build and advance their careers alongside the company’s ongoing expansion.