Telecommunications and fiber optics are the backbone of global communication. They connect people across distances, support businesses, and enable innovations that drive the modern world. As technology advances, maintaining and improving these systems becomes increasingly important. Industry leaders, such as Donald R. Houghton, are at the forefront, ensuring these critical infrastructures evolve to meet growing demands.
Houghton, Northwest optical manager at Astound Broadband, brings years of experience to the field. With his deep knowledge of fiber optics and forward-thinking approach, he is shaping the future of telecommunications.
A Strong Start in Fiber Optics
Houghton’s career began with his service in the U.S. Army, where he gained invaluable experience in satellite communications and signals intelligence analysis. During this time, which he looks back on with great fondness, he served as an assistant instructor and supervisor.
Following Houghton’s military service, much of which was of a classified nature, he transitioned into the telecommunications industry, initially working with Optical Dynamics as a contributing author of three courses specializing in power conditioning and bonding for computer and networking environments. He also served as the founder and president of Advanced Concepts, a computer consulting company based in Utah. He subsequently went on to work with Brooks Fiber Communications.
In the years that followed, Houghton distinguished himself in various roles at leading companies like MCI WorldCom, Global Crossing, Frontier Communications, and Rainier Connect, where he served as the company’s only optical engineer. He also designed and implemented the fiber infrastructure of the Click Network in Tacoma, Washington, and designed the GPON and 10GPON deployments in that footprint. Those projects expanded the company from roughly 3,500 customers to over 35,000 customers between 2014 and 2020, after which he moved to Wave Broadband.
“When I started, we were working with fiber optics that could handle speeds of 155 megabits per second,” Houghton recalls. “With new technologies just being deployed we are now capable of 104 terabits per second. The change has been incredible.”
A Leader in Fiber Optic Technology
Houghton currently oversees a team at Astound Broadband, where he manages large-scale projects involving fiber optic systems and networking. He focuses on implementing dense wavelength division multiplexing technology along the West Coast, supporting Fortune 500 companies and telecommunications providers.
“One of the things I’m spearheading is the plan to increase our channel capacity,” Houghton explains. “We’re moving from 400 to 800 GHz and even 1.6 terabits per channel. This upgrade will revolutionize the industry.”
His deep understanding of technology and his ability to communicate complex ideas have made Houghton a respected leader in the field.
“The first thing is to know the technology,” he says. “The second thing, and one of the things I find most lacking, is communication. If you can’t express your ideas clearly, you can’t effect change.”
A Career Built on Perseverance
Houghton attributes much of his success to his determination and resilience. “There is no chance, no fate, no destiny that can circumvent, hinder or control the firmness of a determined soul,” he says, quoting Ella Wheeler Wilcox. This mantra has guided him throughout his career, helping him overcome both personal and professional obstacles.
Houghton’s leadership in the industry extends beyond technical knowledge. From 2011 to 2013, he served as a district chair for Washington’s 25th district, acting as liaison for 144,000 constituents. He also gained experience in international telecommunications, working with global networks and serving as a gateway between the U.S. and the Asia-Pacific regions.
“When I worked with Global Crossing, my position allowed me to work not only domestically but internationally, which was a unique opportunity,” Houghton reflects.
Looking Forward: A Commitment to Growth
Looking ahead, Houghton is focused on furthering his impact in the telecommunications industry. “I want to continue progressing in my field and eventually move into a management role where I can mentor and guide the next generation of engineers,” he says. He also hopes to be more involved in politics, continuing to influence positive change in the industry and his community.
With his unwavering dedication to advancing telecommunications and his passion for mentoring, Houghton’s future remains bright. His commitment to innovation and leadership positions him to continue shaping the industry and inspiring the next generation of engineers and leaders.
