New Tribal Broadband Project Manager Frances Goli (Sanchez).
By ROSELYNN YAZZIE
Sho-Ban News
FORT HALL — Frances Goli (Sanchez) was hired on January 17 as the Tribal Broadband Project Manager for the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program Grant received from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), United States Department of Commerce.
She is responsible for implementing the Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Broadband Connectivity Project. She will develop and deploy broadband internet on the Fort Hall Reservation to deliver broadband internet services for telemedicine, education, business and other services that currently do not exist.
Goli says she is dedicated to advocating for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes in state, regional and international issues the Indigenous population faces, such as digital equity and closing the digital divide on tribal lands.
She’s an experienced professional in data management, program development, government relations and operations management, with a career spanning more than 20 years.
Her experience includes working in the international atmosphere, including the U.S. Navy, the Department of Defense, the State Department, Healthcare, Foreign Affairs, and Local governments.
Most recently she worked for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Executive Department under Administration for Native Americans (ANA) social and economic development grant focusing on procedures, processes and innovative solutions to the Tribal government and community.
Her previous job titles included Business Process Automation Developer; Business Intelligence Analyst; Analyst; Management Analyst; Administrative Technician; U.S. Navy Yeoman.
She obtained a Bachelor’s degree in International Business and served eight years in the United States Navy, implementing programs and projects during the time she served.
Goli’s work day includes attending meetings with the granting authority, Idaho State Broadband Office, the Indigenous Digital Inclusion working group, and Pacific Northwest Tribal Broadband Coalition. Furthermore, she researches funding opportunities and other broadband initiatives across the city, state and federal programs.
Her primary goal for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Broadband Project is to ensure all residents of the Fort Hall Reservation have the opportunity to thrive by providing reliable, affordable broadband internet service, digital literacy training, support, and internet-ready devices for the end user.
Goli says her goal is, “To increase digital navigation and training in our community, workforce development, and data collection and encourage careers in Information Technology.”
She has spent the past two decades working away from her home on the Fort Hall Reservation and is now taking time to reconnect with extended family and friends. She’s also been encouraged to participate in community events. She’s passionate about organizing, volunteering, and learning about local history.