Corning and Lightwave magazine recognize James Hettrick for excellence in FTTx deployment

Fiber Optics Weekly Update, June 10, 2005

James Hettrick of the City of Loma Linda, California, is the recipient of the award, which honors an individual for his or her contributions to the deployment of optical access networks in North America in the last year.

In multiple nominations, Hettrick was praised for his creativity and leadership in bringing the next generation of broadband connectivity to Loma Linda. As director of information systems for the city, Hettrick led Loma Linda to become the first city in America to pass an ordinance requiring fiber-to-the-home and structured-wiring infrastructure in all new home and business developments. "When other communities begin to follow Loma Linda's lead, their residents will benefit greatly from the foresight and leadership of Mr. Hettrick," one nomination stated.

"The Loma Linda Connected Community Program headed by Mr. Hettrick has laid a strong foundation to keep residents of Loma Linda ahead of the curve in delivering high-speed data to their homes and businesses," another nomination form said. "As a leader of a local government entity, Mr. Hettrick has been able to clear the barriers of creating an optical network wholly owned by the city itself."

The winner was selected from a qualified pool of candidates, all of whom were nominated by their peers for the award. Hettrick was presented with the award at the National Science & Technology Education Partnership (NSTEP) luncheon during SUPERCOMM 2005 in Chicago, Illinois. At the luncheon, he received a Steuben glass art piece, and a donation was made in his name to NSTEP.

"The nominees for this year's FTTXcellence Award were again outstanding, and we congratulate Mr. Hettrick on this honor," said Larry Aiello, president and CEO of Corning Cable Systems. "Along with his peers, we salute his leadership and vision in bringing broadband connectivity to the City of Loma Linda."

Upon winning the award, Hettrick applauded the efforts of his co-workers and peers. "This award would not have been possible if not for the unwavering support of Dennis Halloway, the city manager and the city council," Hettrick said.

For more information on Hettrick and the FTTXcellence Award, see the August issue of Lightwave magazine.