Broadband Nation Expo 2024

Heather Gate has dedicated over 17 years of her life to bridging the digital divide and enhancing the lives of vulnerable populations through technology access, adoption, and use. Her unwavering passion for this cause is truly inspiring.

Heather Gate's professional journey is a testament to her commitment. As the Chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Communications Equity and Diversity Council (CEDC) reappointed to a second term in 2024 and Vice Chair of FCC’s Advisory Committee on Diversity and Digital Empowerment 2019 – 2021, she has played a pivotal role in gathering insights from diverse communities on issues related to communications and offering recommendations to the FCC to ensure equity in the provision of and access to digital communication services for all people of the United States.

Her notable achievements at Connected Nation include overseeing the successful implementation of digital inclusion programs, such as the No Child Left Offline program in Kentucky and the Computers 4 Kids program in Tennessee, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Opportunity Online Program for libraries, and the Teens Tech Tech Program nationally. These programs impacted communities across 42 states, with over 21 million people impacted. She has also led programs that advance affordable broadband access, ensuring millions of individuals have access to technology and internet connectivity.

Heather's contributions extend beyond program implementation. She is a key figure in national discussions on broadband adoption and digital equity, and her insights are often featured on various platforms. Her voice is a powerful advocate for the urgency of closing the digital divide and for policy changes to support digital inclusion efforts.
Heather's exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing digital equity have not gone unnoticed. In 2023, she was named one of the Women We Admire's Top 50 Women Leaders of Kentucky and was commissioned a Kentucky Colonel by Governor Andy Beshear. Her participation in the Leadership Kentucky Program further solidifies her position as a respected leader in digital equity.