MJ Barton is a dedicated advocate and expert in the field of tribal and broadband outreach programs. With a deep passion for bridging the digital divide and empowering underserved communities, MJ has been instrumental in developing and implementing innovative initiatives to connect tribal nations with reliable broadband infrastructure and essential digital resources.

MJ has a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by tribal communities in accessing affordable and high-speed internet services. She has worked closely with tribal leaders, community organizations, and government agencies to design tailored outreach programs that address the unique needs and cultural sensitivities of each community.

Through her strategic leadership, MJ is spearheading numerous broadband projects, enabling Tribal Nations to harness the power of technology for economic development, education, healthcare, and cultural preservation. She plays a pivotal role in securing funding and forming partnerships to expand broadband infrastructure in tribal areas, leveraging their expertise to navigate regulatory frameworks and overcome logistical barriers.

MJ’s expertise extends beyond infrastructure development. She has also been actively involved in digital literacy and skills training programs, to equip tribal members with the necessary knowledge and tools to fully leverage broadband connectivity. By fostering collaboration between Tribal Governments, educational institutions, and industry stakeholders, she is facilitating the creation of comprehensive training initiatives that empower tribal communities to thrive in the digital age.

Currently, MJ continues to work tirelessly towards achieving universal broadband access and digital equity for all tribal communities. Her dedication and expertise makes her a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand and address the challenges and opportunities presented by tribal and broadband grant programs.

Rodney Martin is a Design Technical Manager at Olsson and manages tribal telecom projects. He brings extensive experience in project management, client relations, technical oversight, and cultural sensitivity.

Rodney has managed complex projects, including new builds and retrofits valued up to $40 million, and overseen operations for mega data centers. His background also includes managing OSP fiber optic builds across the nation and providing technical advice to clients.

Rodney began his distinguished career in the US Army in 1996 and retired in 2022. He provided written and verbal guidance to Government Officials over risk, vulnerability, and safety assessments; as well as coordinated and recommended new policies, plans, and procedures designed to increase effectiveness.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Security Management from Bellevue University and an Associate’s degree in AutoCAD from ITT Technical Institute, along with certifications including BICSI Technician, OSHA 30, and an ongoing RCDD certification from BICSI.