The FISH projects—Fiber Internet Serving Homes—are a lifeline for Alaska’s remote coastal communities. But before the first fiber optic cable can be laid, the seabed must be mapped, obstacles identified, and the most efficient route engineered. That’s where Pioneer Consulting steps in.
The marine route surveys for the FISH West and FISH South submarine cable systems are now complete. This isn’t just a survey; it’s a deep dive into the ocean floor, using geophysical and geotechnical tools to map the terrain, collect seabed samples, and ensure the route is clear of obstructions. Multiple vessels operated in parallel, covering everything from shallow coastal waters to the system’s maximum depths. Underwater ROVs provided close-up inspections, while environmental scientists monitored for protected marine species, ensuring the survey didn’t disrupt local ecosystems.
The data collected will now be compiled and analyzed, feeding into the final route engineering phase. This is where Pioneer Consulting’s expertise comes into play—turning raw data into a precise, optimized path for the cables. The FISH West system will stretch 300km between Cordova and Seward, while FISH South will run 900km between Cordova and Juneau, bringing high-speed broadband to some of Alaska’s most isolated communities.
Funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s ReConnect Program, these projects are about more than just connectivity—they’re about bridging the digital divide in rural America. Pioneer Consulting has been working with Cordova Telecom Cooperative since 2022, starting with a feasibility study, and will continue to lead the project through installation and testing, expected to wrap up by the end of 2027.
The FISH projects are a testament to what happens when technology, expertise, and community-driven initiatives align. It’s not just about laying cables—it’s about empowering communities, creating opportunities, and ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age. The survey phase is done, but the real work is just beginning.