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Geopolitical Importance

Many countries rely heavily on submarine cables to help to keep their economy going and their security in check. 

“[The cables] carry 99 per cent of all transcontinental internet traffic. So that includes your video calls, your stock market transactions, conference calls, military operations — everything,” Joe Brock, a Singapore-based Reuters correspondent, tells ABC RN’s Late Night Live.

Though they cost hundreds of millions of dollars to build, they offer greater speed than satellite internet, which only accounts for a very small fraction of all internet traffic. 

“It’s much slower to transmit data through satellites, and there’s far less bandwidth.

These underwater cables have always been of interest to governments, says research analyst Lane Burdette.

“It’s because of how much governments rely on them from a communication standpoint.”

Burdette works with TeleGeography, a Washington-based company that collects and analyses communication data.

“Sub cables have always been important for geopolitics,” she says.

“However, I think the geopolitical situation of the last decade, especially in regard to potential seabed warfare, [has] ramped up.

“And so people are paying more attention to sub cables.” 

Lately, they’ve been the source of increased tension between the US and China, who have been in dispute over submarine cable deals.

For context, while there are some government-owned cables across the globe, the majority of cables are privately owned and operated by telecommunications companies.

Chinese company HMN Tech was set to build a submarine cable running from Singapore to France, but lost its contract after the US put in a higher bid of US$600 million ($944 million), Brock explains.

He says the US wanted to have more control over the security of their communications, hence their push to outbid the Chinese company.

“The US government intervened behind the scenes to persuade, with cash sweeteners, telecoms companies to change their mind and flip it and then choose an American supplier called SubCom, which is a main US cable supplier, and they do work for the US government,” he explains.

“The US would much rather cables were built by US companies … so it’s sort of this behind-the-scenes jostling and, in this case, Washington won the day.”

Spying and Cutting Ties

There are constant fears of espionage and sensitive data being extracted from submarine cables.

For example, Brock says US intelligence services “claim that the Chinese and others can fit back doors onto cables, which would reroute data … Your private data could then be hoovered up by intelligence services”.

The most likely way to hack data from a submarine cable is from the landing station, he says.

These land-based stations are where the cable connects with terrestrial networks.

They’ve been hacked before. Brock points to the case where Edward Snowden exposed that the US’s National Security Agency had tapped into submarine cables and was extracting data from US citizens, more than a decade ago.

What happens if cables get cut?

These fears are warranted. History has shown that cables have been cut before. 

And once a country’s communications has been cut off, they become more vulnerable.

For instance, during World War I, the British cut all of Germany’s undersea cables, except one.

“That’s how they were able to get the Zimmermann telegram, which, of course, was a rather important component of the war,” Burdette says.

In January 1917, the Zimmermann telegram was issued by the German Foreign Office proposing an alliance with Mexico if the US entered World War I.

British Intelligence got hold of this information and informed the Americans, which led the US to declare war on Germany.

“So these cables have been intentionally damaged in warfare before. They’re a really important way for states to be able to connect across the globe. And they’re an interesting target in the case of a hot conflict,” Burdette says.

However most of the damage to submarine cables isn’t intentional.

“I would say the biggest threat to sub cables out there, at least on a routine basis, is accidental interaction with people. So [for example] fishermen and trawlers — that comprises the majority of breaks,” she explains.

Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, also contribute to cables’ damage.

For example, Tonga was left largely offline for more than a month after a volcanic eruption in 2022 damaged its cable.

Taiwan also lost its internet during February 2023, and claimed that Chinese ships were responsible, Brock says.

“They didn’t say whether it was an intentional act. And the Chinese have not responded to explain whether they were involved … so there’s a bit of mystery that’s shrouded around that. 

“Taiwan is a big concern because there’s so much geopolitical tension over [that region]. They have several cables, they are all running through areas of water, which are highly contested,” Brock says.

“But I think it’s given warning to everyone … It shows what could be done if someone wants to do something deliberately.”

The Cost of Unplanned Outages

Disaster recovery and preparedness are not just routine considerations; they’re at the forefront of operational strategy here at NJFX. This shift is driven by the increasing prevalence of natural disasters, technological mishaps, and unforeseen incidents. In today’s world, the average cost of unplanned outages for companies now surpasses $16,000 per minute. Such a staggering figure not only emphasizes the financial burden but also highlights the heightened risks of exposing sensitive data and incurring substantial revenue losses. This reality underscores the imperative for businesses to adopt and refine robust disaster recovery plans, ensuring resilience in the face of these challenges.

Identifying and Addressing Network Vulnerabilities

Understanding the various factors that contribute to network vulnerabilities is crucial. These factors can range from increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters, the risk of planned attacks on infrastructure, evolving cybersecurity threats, and the complexities of maintaining service during unforeseen disruptions. Addressing these challenges is essential for ensuring robust and resilient network operations.

Addressing these critical points of failure, NJFX presents a compelling solution with its state-of-the-art 64,000-square-foot facility. Equipped with direct fiber network connections and backup generators supported by Uninterruptible Power Service (UPS), NJFX sets a new standard in carrier-grade network interconnections, strategically located outside any major U.S. city. Today, our facility hosts 35 global and U.S.-based operators and serves as a critical node for multinational banks implementing a ‘never down’ strategy. The NJFX campus also connects major network and cloud operators to global backbones, linking transatlantic cables to Europe and South America. For enterprises seeking true network diversity, our facility offers layer one interconnectivity with a variety of network connectivity partners. This not only meets but exceeds the disaster recovery requirements of metropolitan providers, offering enhanced redundancy and ensuring seamless operational continuity.

Beyond the Ordinary: NJFX’s Unique Advantage

What truly distinguishes NJFX is our unwavering commitment to comprehensive disaster recovery planning. Our unique combination of secure, direct access to numerous networks at our cable landing station campus sets us apart in the industry. This, coupled with our strategic location in Wall, NJ, far from the congested areas of New York City and Northern New Jersey, ensures enhanced operational reliability, particularly in times of crisis.

In a world where operational continuity is paramount, choosing NJFX means opting for a partner that prioritizes your business’s resilience in the face of adversity. Reach out to us today to explore how we can safeguard your critical operations, ensuring your business remains unyielding, even in the most challenging times. With NJFX, be assured that when it comes to disaster readiness, you have a reliable and strategic ally by your side.

Emerging from the enlightening whirlwind of the Capacity Europe conference in London, industry titans from the subsea communications realm have begun diving into critical dialogues that are shaping the future. The conference brought together an elite ensemble of cable operators, carriers, and network architects, each poised to chart the path of our industry’s future, assess the fast-evolving dynamics of the subsea sector, and strategize on the road ahead.

Our very own visionary, Gil Santaliz, NJFX’s Founder and CEO, joined an esteemed panel to dissect the implications of significant technological advancements. They addressed how the imminent retirement of aging cables, cost reductions by OTT’s, and the miniaturization of equipment — which is now faster and boasts greater capacity — are catalyzing industry transformation.

Panel Discussion: How are New Subsea Technologies and Supply Chain Disruptions Forcing Business Models to Evolve?

Panelists:

Gil Santaliz – CEO, NJFX
Gavin Rea – CTO, GBI
Wilfried Dudink – Senior Director, Strategy & Development, Digital Realty Thomas Soerensen – Director, Ciena
Isabelle Paradis – President & Founder, Hot Telecom (Moderator)

One of the many notable shifts highlighted during the discussions was the rapid expansion of subsea projects. What once was a modest requirement for data transfer has exploded into an era where bandwidth is devoured at unprecedented rates. It’s clear that the recent surge in cable construction is not merely timely but crucial.

These up-and-coming projects align perfectly with the lifespan of the latest cable systems. We’re moving from systems with 2 & 4 fiber pairs to those boasting 8 to 24, rendering the operational expenses of older systems untenable. The availability of warranties and parts makes these aging systems unappealing, especially when contrasted with the costs associated with backhaul and network design for what could be a handful of years.

Santaliz articulates this pivotal moment with clarity: “We’re at the cusp of a subsea deployment boom, reminiscent of the early 2000s, poised to form the backbone of global connectivity for the next two decades. This surge is in tandem with an unparalleled increase in data traffic crossing continents. The new generation of subsea cables introduces an economic shift, heavily influenced by OTT providers, prompting a subset of carriers to adapt to a secondary marketplace. At NJFX, our unique Tier-3 colocation model is strategically designed to meet the demanding requirements of subsea cable operators. We’re ready to deliver enhanced capacity, superior reliability, robust security, and flexible interconnection options that seamlessly connect North America, South America, and Europe.”

Digital Realty’s Senior Director, Wilfried Dudink, echoed the sentiment, noting the significant transition toward more efficient systems. “OTTs are driving down the essential operations and maintenance funding for cable stations, which now find themselves operating at a capacity 80% larger than necessary. This is due to the fact optical equipment has become exponentially more efficient over the past two decades,” he commented.

Building on this theme, Santaliz offered a robust expansion of his earlier thoughts. “The influence of OTT powerhouses is becoming increasingly central to the financing of subsea cable projects,” he stated. “Companies like Meta and Google are not just consumers of capacity; they are becoming indispensable partners for cable operators.” Santaliz’s statement underlines a pivotal shift in the industry, suggesting that collaboration with these tech giants is crucial for the sustained growth and evolution of global subsea infrastructure.

Gavin Rea, CTO at GBI, contributed to this topic by shedding light on the evolving architecture of these systems. He highlighted that the once substantial cable landing stations are now giving way too much more streamlined operations. The advancement in technology means subsea cables may only require simple beach huts, with fiber pairs extending to multiple huts or Cable Landing Stations connected merely by splicing in beach manholes. This marks a significant reduction in complexity and potentially, in operational costs, signaling a leaner future for the physical touchpoints of our global internet infrastructure.

Isabelle Paradis turned the discussion to Thomas Sorensen, Director at Ciena, who verified a remarkable development in the subsea capacity sector. He confirmed that what once required 50 racks of optical gear to manage 5 terabytes of subsea capacity can now be accommodated by a single rack. This significant reduction in physical infrastructure is thanks to the innovative strides made by companies like Ciena in the development of Submarine Line Terminal Equipment (SLTE).

Ciena has been at the forefront, pushing the boundaries of subsea technology with equipment that is not only faster and smaller but also more cost-effective. The introduction of advanced branching units is a game-changer, allowing for increased flexibility with the possibility of multiple landings across continents. This, combined with real-time network optimization and grooming capabilities, underscores a seismic shift towards more efficient and dynamic subsea networking solutions.

Such innovations are not just reshaping the physical landscape of networking equipment but are also redefining the possibilities for global communication networks, ensuring they are more scalable, adaptable, and capable of meeting the ever-growing demands of our connected world.

In the ever-evolving realm of digital technology, the various conferences encompassing our industry provide an opportunity to highlight the growing trends that ultimately shape connectivity. Our esteemed NJFX team recently journeyed to London, championing discussions on the transformative landscape of digital infrastructure and emphasizing the importance of ushering in a new generation of young leaders to these platforms. 

Our General Manager, Felix Seda, had the privilege of participating in the Keynote Panel of Capacity Europe 2023, where he shared the stage with distinguished trailblazers, innovators, and leaders of the 2023 Power 100 list who are at the forefront of shaping global digital infrastructure. 

Keynote Panel: Preparing for the Next Wave of Disruption

Panelists:

• Martijn Blanken – CEO – EXA Infrastructure
• Ivo Ivanov – CEO – DE-CIX
• Felix Seda – GM – NJFX
• Alexandre Pebereau – CEO – iBasis
• Paul Abfalter – Head of Global Wholesale & OTT – Telstra
• Nadine Hawkins – Editor – Capacity (Moderator)

The panel focused on future innovations that could help unlock value for customers. Seda passionately spoke about the significance of new critical infrastructure and emphasized the necessity of fostering diversity in network architecture. As a testament to innovation, NJFX is proud to be recognized as the first North American Cable Landing station that boasts an integrated Tier-III carrier neutral colocation within its CLS campus.

In Seda’s words, “NJFX has reimagined the traditional data center model, forging an interconnection marketplace at the center where subsea and terrestrial fiber physically converge. Having access to multiple terrestrial & subsea options provides the foundation for network diversity, ultimately providing the ability to reach new customers and penetrate new markets.”

Further establishing its pivotal role in the industry, NJFX’s strategically designed infrastructure offers direct connectivity to four subsea cable systems, bridging six countries over three continents. NJFX’s expansive capacity across three Meet Me Rooms underpins our commitment to innovation, and with collaboration from over 35 network operators, NJFX proudly stands as a leading global marketplace for connectivity.

Leading networks and ISPs are realizing that legacy interconnection points are no longer a resilient option for secure network architecture. DE-CIX’s PoP at NJFX offers their customers the ability to pick up the New York fabric from the NJFX campus leveraging direct, low latency routes to business hubs bypassing potential points of failure. Recently, EXA Infrastructure announced their partnership with Bulk Infrastructure for HAVFRUE from the NJFX campus; fully integrating HAVFRUE with EXA’s extensive European and US network. The route provides direct connectivity to the Nordics while avoiding the major conventional transatlantic traffic passages.

While critical infrastructure and cutting-edge network architecture form the paths of our industry, they are complemented by another essential component: the people. The individuals we collaborate with, especially emerging talent, are indispensable to the industry’s future. Seda has consistently championed the significance of engaging young professionals. For the past five years, he’s emphasized the need to integrate fresh perspectives with the wisdom of seasoned experts. It was this passion that led to the inception of ‘Millennials in Telecom‘ in 2018. This groundbreaking initiative was the first to curate a platform where budding professionals and industry stalwarts could network and deepen their understanding of the industry. Evolving from its roots, ‘Millennials in Telecom’ has now transitioned to ‘PTC Beyond.’ The revamped initiative offers a unique BOGO registration, enabling organizations to bring along an additional member to the conference at no extra charge.

As we come to the end of Capacity Europe, we are reminded of the profound impact that conferences like these and initiatives such as ‘PTC Beyond’ have on the collective wisdom of the telecommunications community. It’s clear that our commitment to fostering the growth of young professionals through mentorship and inclusive platforms is not just an investment in individuals, but in the future of the industry itself. As we reflect on the insights shared and connections made, we carry forward the torch that Felix Seda and our NJFX team so proudly held high in London—illuminating the path for the next wave of innovators. Together, we’re not just navigating the dynamic currents of digital technology; we’re shaping them. Here is to the visionaries, the trailblazers, and every young leader stepping boldly into this transformative landscape. May our collaborative efforts continue to inspire, build bridges, and push boundaries in the ever-expanding digital frontier.

 

Welcome back to Luminaries Of Telecom!

In the buzzing world of telecom, where stories weave and intertwine, often a singular voice emerges, setting the tone, bringing clarity, and connecting dots we didn’t even know existed. You’ve seen her energizing conference halls and connecting with many of you at grand events. From her early strides with giants like MSNBC and Telx, her journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Beyond the bright lights of professional accolades, she’s also a force to be reckoned with – crafting stories as an accomplished writer, orchestrating engaging conversations on ‘JSA Podcasts’, and spearheading JSA, a PR and marketing firm that has become synonymous with industry excellence. We present to you a storyteller, a visionary, and an industry luminary – “The Nexus Narrator,” the incomparable Jaymie Scotto Cutaia!

From the moment she could express herself, Jaymie radiated an undeniable passion for learning and an eagerness to delve beyond the ordinary. This vibrant curiosity beckoned her towards the captivating world of writing and journalism. 

1999 was a year that would etch itself indelibly in Jaymie’s journey. As she stepped into the dynamic world of MSNBC, she wasn’t merely joining a news station; she was diving headfirst into a pioneering venture birthed from the genius collaboration between industry powerhouses: Microsoft and General Electric (GE). This was no ordinary newsroom—MSNBC, with its innovative approach and relentless quest for truth, was poised to redefine the very fabric of journalism. 

In her vibrant four years at MSNBC, Jaymie wasn’t just reporting stories; she was living them. From the heart-wrenching moments of 9/11 to the unfolding chapters of the war in Afghanistan, every story resonated deeply. These monumental events didn’t just make headlines; they reshaped Jaymie’s perception of journalism’s profound impact. They underscored the pivotal role of collaboration, the artistry and care in compelling narratives, and the sheer power of connecting with audiences.

This exhilarating chapter didn’t just mark Jaymie’s career; it set ablaze an undying flame—a relentless and exuberant passion for connecting as a writer- as a person- through storylines and successes- that showed no sign of dimming!

Jaymie felt the winds of change beckoning her towards a new adventure. Diving headfirst into the telecoms industry, she stepped into a realm vastly different from journalism. While the two sectors might seem worlds apart, this move was set to become one of the most defining moments in Jaymie’s illustrious career.

Joining The Telx Group, Inc. as the Director of Marketing and PR was serendipitous. The stars aligned, presenting her with an opportunity that perfectly matched her drive and ambition. Reflecting on her time there, Jaymie enthuses, “Telx wasn’t just any company; it was the pulsating heart of innovation. Every day felt like stepping onto the frontier of technological advancements. The place was buzzing with entrepreneurial energy, and the dynamism was infectious!” Central to this vibrant environment was the leadership of Rory Cutaia, Telx’s visionary founder, CEO, and Chairman of the Board. Their professional camaraderie would later blossom into a personal relationship, with Rory eventually becoming her life partner, husband and father to their daughter Ava.

One of the crowning achievements during her time at Telx was the conceptualization and popularization of the term ‘Colocation’. In a move characteristic of Telx’s entrepreneurship, the team dramatically transformed the iconic 60 Hudson Street building, literally drilling through its walls, to pioneer a direct equipment connection method. This audacious strategy bypassed the outdated and expensive local loop systems, setting a new industry precedent. The Telx management team was instrumental in championing this novel concept, ensuring clients and peers alike grasped the magnitude and implications of what would soon become foundational in telecommunications: the direct cross-connect.

As Jaymie navigated this new world, her interactions with a plethora of cutting-edge thought leaders from small and large telecom and enterprise companies alike, greatly enhanced and diversified her professional experience. Every discussion, every brainstorming session, and every collaboration subtly steered her towards a burning desire to craft something uniquely her own. As she mingled with the industry’s luminaries – the innovators, the disruptors, the visionaries – Jaymie’s entrepreneurial spark ignited brighter than ever. She wasn’t just networking; she was absorbing, learning, and constantly evolving. For Jaymie, every individual had a lesson to impart, a perspective to share, and perhaps even the potential to collaborate on future groundbreaking projects. She developed a synergistic philosophy that ‘one plus one equals three’, a belief that collective efforts amplify results. Such a mindset, coupled with her accumulated journalistic insights, led Jaymie to spot a glaring void in the telecoms landscape: a dire need for specialized industry-specific communication, education and promotion.  

The Rise of JSA

Jaymie had a clear vision: it was essential to master its nuances, keep a pulse on evolving trends, forge ties with influential leaders, and consistently pave pathways for companies to establish valuable connections. Her insights revealed the unparalleled advantage of specializing in a niche.

This eureka moment led to the founding of JSA in 2005, with the ambition of filling the void in the digital infrastructure domain – a niche crying out for a dedicated public relations and marketing ally. Over an impressive span of 18 and a half years, JSA has impeccably embodied this vision.

When asked about JSA’s enduring legacy and the catalysts for its triumphant journey, Jaymie credits the people who have been the beating heart of the organization. Challenges, which are yet inevitable, transform into innovative solutions, thanks to the collective brilliance of the JSA team. 

“Each brainstorming session is akin to watching fireworks of creativity,” Jaymie sparks a smile. The synergy she has fostered among her team is palpable, making JSA more than just a workplace—it’s a family. A family that thrives on mutual growth, routinely engages in enriching ‘lunch and learn’ sessions, and is unwaveringly committed to elevating their clients’ businesses.

JSA’s unwavering commitment to evolution and innovation remains at the forefront. The team continually reflects upon, ‘How can they stay ahead of the curve for their clients, both today and in the months and years to come?’ Jaymie and her team’s thirst for knowledge is ceaseless. Dedicated to understanding the latest technological breakthroughs, they discern how tools like AI can amplify their PR and marketing efforts. While automation brings efficiency, JSA emphasizes the irreplaceable value of genuine human connection.

For JSA, it’s clear that AI has sent transformative ripples across industry, especially in fields like medicine, data centers and even communications. Although JSA recognizes and leverages the power of AI, utilizing for example the plethora of multi-lingual research as a foundation for content creation, JSA utilizes platforms like ChatGPT with the utmost discretion, ensuring that the sanctity of clients’ data remains uncompromised and the final drafts unmistakably human. 

At its core, JSA champions the art of quality content. Jaymie, a writer by trade with a master’s degree in the discipline, has always placed a premium on eloquent and impactful storytelling. The writers at JSA, handpicked and meticulously trained, reflect this commitment to excellence. Collaborating with visionary clients who resonate with the company’s ethos provides the team with a canvas rich with stories of innovation, change, and progress. These narratives, steeped in authenticity and passion, don’t just engage—they inspire and foster partnerships. Unlike many agencies that might remain surface-level in their content, JSA delves deep, showcasing the luminaries and pioneers crafting the future. These narratives magnetize the best in the industry, drawing leaders who share JSA’s passion and drive. It’s not just about networking—it’s about cultivating a community bound by shared aspirations and dreams.

In her pursuit of excellence, Jaymie has adeptly leveraged a plethora of digital avenues. From hosting engaging discussions on their dedicated podcasts, such as Data Movers, to live stream interviews at industry events, to fostering dialogues through roundtables, active social media engagement, and insightful blogs, Jaymie ensures JSA’s presence is felt across every relevant digital platform. But the brilliance of her strategy lies in its coherence: each platform, while distinct in its offerings, weaves back into a consistent narrative that centers on their clients and the infrastructure industry, crafting captivating stories that resonate far and wide.

While countless stories under the JSA banner stand testament to their prowess, certain narratives evoke a unique blend of nostalgia and pride. Among them is the captivating tale of Hibernia. Initially introduced to the world as Hibernia Atlantic, the company’s meteoric rise saw it evolve into a global powerhouse, necessitating a rebrand that aptly reflected its expansive reach. The crescendo of their journey was the launch of Hibernia Networks, and particularly the rollout of the very first transatlantic cable in over a decade, Hibernia Express. This wasn’t just any cable; it was bridging New York and London with unparalleled speed and new technical innovation and much-needed capacity. This monumental endeavor represented a pivotal chapter in the annals of digital communication.

To ensure this historic moment received its due recognition, Jaymie and her team employed innovative techniques that were ahead of their time. Employing drone technology, which was still in its nascent stages back then, they captured breathtaking visuals of the cable making landfall on iconic beaches on both continents. This visual narrative, coupled with impeccable storytelling, caught the media’s attention, placing Hibernia Express in the limelight it so rightfully deserved. Jaymie reminisced, “It was a golden opportunity for us writers to document history unfolding before our eyes, and we felt truly honored to be part of that story.”

The X Factor

The turning point, what Jaymie fondly refers to as the ‘X Factor’, dawned in the tumultuous aftermath of the pandemic circa 2020-21. Amidst the adversities that the global crisis presented, what shone through was her team’s unwavering commitment. The adversities of remote work, homeschooling challenges, health threats – nothing could deter them. They reported to work with undiminished zeal, bringing not just their expertise but an undeniable passion. This resilience led to an epiphany: JSA was more than just a PR firm. They were custodians of narratives that represented a community, resilient and vital in the face of global challenges. Highlighting the endeavors of the telecom and critical infrastructure industry, who together ensured uninterrupted connectivity even through a pandemic, became a mission.

But another profound realization emerged during these trying times: the pressing need for sustainability. This wasn’t just a trend; it was an urgent call to arms. They recognized that they were amidst an industry that was not just acknowledging, but actively responding to the clarion call for sustainability. For Jaymie and her team, their roles transcended beyond mere jobs. They were on a mission, driven by purpose and the intent to bring about palpable change. Together, with amazing global collaboration of our industry’s finest thought leaders, they launched the ‘Greener Data’ movement.

‘Greener Data’ wasn’t just an abstract concept for Jaymie; it materialized as a co-authored book, a testament to our industry’s fervor for more sustainable, greener data networks and best practices. Within its pages, the narrative unfurled the tales of outstanding companies and visionary leaders, all steered by the ambition to sculpt a more eco-conscious digital domain. Confronted with the stark reality that the industry accounted for 3 to 4% of global energy consumption, the magnitude of their responsibility became undeniably clear.

Rooted deeply within the critical infrastructure sector, the book emphasized its inherent role as the epicenter of this ecological transformation. Dispelling common misconceptions, Jaymie stressed that genuine sustainable advancements does not arise solely from political debates or grandiloquent global conferences. The true change-makers, as highlighted in her book, are the innovators, tech enthusiasts, and industries that band together, marrying vision with actionable strategies, to sculpt a greener tomorrow. ‘Greener Data’ is more than just a book; it was a manifesto, a call to action for an entire industry.

Sustainability for All

From the inception of the ‘Greener Data’ initiative to its maiden book launch on Earth Day 2022, the trajectory of this movement has been transformative. Bringing together 24 pioneering voices to illuminate their sustainable endeavors, this initiative quickly transitioned from a mere book to a catalyst, igniting an industry-wide transformation. Its rapid adoption and commendation by several companies, earmarking it as mandatory reading, affirmed its monumental impact. Further, achieving the status of an Amazon best-seller was an acknowledgment of its resonance within the industry. As ‘Greener Data’ articulated, the journey to sustainability is progressive, interspersed with strides, partnerships, shared education and collective growth.

Recognizing the indelible imprint the first volume created, the extension of this journey was a foregone conclusion. Earth Day 2024 is set to witness the release of ‘Greener Data Volume Two’ on Amazon. Boasting contributions from over 50 industry stalwarts, this volume exemplifies the growing momentum of this initiative. This compilation isn’t merely an aggregation of chapters but a comprehensive tapestry of global perspectives, encompassing insights from tech luminaries, subsea experts, carriers, and individuals deeply intertwined with the OSI stack. With contributions spanning almost every global corner, this volume stands as a testament to its global outreach. The recent kickoff event, brimming with enthusiasm, chapter unveilings, and shared aspirations, heralded the impending transformative wave this volume promises to usher.

The genesis of ‘Greener Data’ didn’t occur in isolation. It stemmed from Jaymie’s fervent desire to innovate and to spotlight the multifaceted narratives that often remained confined within the industry’s echo chambers. Upon seeking external feedback regarding this endeavor, she was inundated with overwhelming support, reinforcing that ‘Greener Data’ resonated deeply with the industry at large.

What sets this initiative apart is its core premise: in a domain where knowledge dissemination largely relies on interpersonal exchanges, ‘Greener Data’ offers a tangible, curated repository. It archives invaluable experiences, curates sustainable journeys, and invites every industry participant to partake in this collective voyage towards a sustainable future. For Jaymie and JSA, this isn’t just an undertaking, it’s a mission, one that amplifies myriad voices, facilitates collaboration, and carves out a more sustainable path ahead.

Leading Women in Telecom

In an era where inclusivity and diversity were increasingly recognized as not just ethical imperatives but also as drivers of innovation and growth, such gaps in gender equality within our own industry were disconcerting. For Jaymie, it wasn’t just about spotting the discrepancy, but about proactively seeking solutions.

Witnessing a glaring disparity in speaker representation at industry events, with often just a lone female voice amidst a predominantly male panel, Jaymie saw a call to action. She asked our industry’s top event organizers how JSA can help get more equal representation on the speaker circuit, and they cited a lack of available female speakers. 

Enter the Women Speaking Initiative (WSI), launched by JSA. By creating a platform, JSA offers women the opportunity to craft a speaking resume. This not only provides event organizers with a dynamic pool of accomplished female professionals eager to share their insights but also obliterates the age-old excuse of not knowing where to find them. It is a proactive move, aimed at not just highlighting female expertise but galvanizing them to actively seek out and embrace speaking opportunities.

For many young women just entering our industry, the stark underrepresentation of women, especially at key conferences, is immediately palpable. Beyond the inherent challenges of navigating a male-dominated domain, many women grapple with the dilemma of how to initiate their journey onto the stage. WSI is more than just a directory; it’s a call, urging women to amplify their voices and assert themselves in the industry.

But inclusivity isn’t just on the speaking pulpit, it’s also in the office.  By fostering inclusive work cultures, championing flexible work models, and nurturing supportive communities, both within organizational confines and through specialized women-centric networks, we can pave the way for a more balanced, equitable, and thriving industry. The narrative isn’t about just representation; it’s about creating spaces where women -and all diverse people and voices- can flourish, contribute, and lead. The road ahead is promising, and with concerted efforts, the future looks bright.

Jaymie began collaborating with various industry groups and associations, curating lists of accomplished women professionals eager to lend their expertise and insights. These were women who had made notable strides in their respective fields, who brought with them a wealth of knowledge, experiences, and perspectives. Jaymie was determined to ensure that the next time an event organizer said, “We don’t know where to find them,” she’d have a list to share.

Her drive didn’t stop there. She championed the creation of forums and networks dedicated to women in tech, creating platforms for them to connect, collaborate, and climb the ladder of leadership. These initiatives not only aimed to equalize representation in panels but also to challenge and change the broader industry narrative around gender diversity.

It wasn’t just about achieving gender parity on panels but about reshaping the industry’s fabric to be more inclusive, equitable, and reflective of the diverse world it serves. Jaymie’s proactive approach showcased a simple truth: when equipped with resources and the right intentions, change is not just possible; it’s inevitable.

Thank you to Jaymie Scotto Cutaia for sharing her invaluable insights as “The Nexus Narrator”. We’ve only scratched the surface of her dynamic journey, and there’s undoubtedly more to explore. Readers, we encourage you to share your thoughts and reflections on Jaymie’s perspective in the comments. For suggestions on other telecom leaders to spotlight, reach out to Emily@njfx.net. Until next time, keep the conversation going and stay engaged!

 

In the fast-paced and ever-changing landscape of the digital age, telecommunications have undeniably risen to the ranks and establishing itself among the top sixteen critical infrastructures according to the experts at CISA – America’s Cyber Defense Agency. It’s no exaggeration to say that in today’s world, we depend on connectivity as much as we do on electricity and healthcare. Our modern lives are so intricately woven into the fabric of connectivity that even a minor hiccup could not only cripple businesses but also send shockwaves through our daily lives, causing unforeseen disruptions we can hardly fathom. Welcome to the era where our very existence is tethered to the invisible threads of telecommunications.

In this modern world, where backup generators stand ready to thwart the inconvenience of power outages, the absence of access to one’s IT network takes on an entirely new dimension of urgency. The year 2024 beckons on you to reevaluate the bedrock of your digital diversity. For businesses deeply dependent on traditional carriers, a pivotal question looms large: Can these carrier assets truly assure the diversity of connectivity that our increasingly interconnected world demands?

NJFX is the first North American Cable Landing Station campus, uniquely integrating a Tier-III carrier-neutral colocation with an existing CLS – exemplifying Connectivity Unrivaled. Our strategic critical infrastructure enables direct access to four subsea cable systems, connecting six countries across three continents. With multiple terabits of capacity readily available across three Meet Me Rooms, NJFX have taken the steps establishing themselves as the foremost global colocation with over 35 network operators providing true diversity from New York City and Miami. Our innovative approach has set a new standard within the telecommunications industry, today being replicated by others. NJFX has taken the traditional data center concept and has established an interconnection marketplace at the cable head ends where subsea and terrestrial providers meet.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is reshaping industries globally, from manufacturing and transportation to healthcare and agriculture. As IoT’s influence continues to grow with the surge in connected devices, it’s essential to recognize the need for a secure, diverse, and redundant infrastructure to meet its advanced demands. In enterprises, IoT devices are revolutionizing financial transactions, security, healthcare monitoring, and customer service. It’s essential to house your equipment in a secure and reliable facility like NJFX, providing a seamless cross-connect for smooth and uninterrupted connectivity.

In an era where telecommunications has transformed from a mere utility into an indispensable lifeline, NJFX shines as a trailblazer in the realm of resilient and innovative connectivity solutions. NJFX’s unwavering commitment is to forge robust, cutting-edge connectivity solutions, with a particular focus on critical infrastructure, ultimately shaping a diverse connectivity hub that meets the evolving demands of our interconnected world.