Ronnie Hammond is the Director of the Maryland Office of Statewide Broadband, where he leads the state’s efforts to expand high-speed internet access and promote digital equity for all Marylanders. A recognized leader in broadband policy and infrastructure deployment, Ronnie has spent over a decade working across both public and private sectors to advance equitable connectivity and bridge the digital divide.
He began his state service in 2019 with the Maryland Office of Rural Broadband, where he successfully managed multimillion-dollar infrastructure grant programs that brought reliable internet to communities historically left behind. His early work laid the foundation for statewide strategies that continue to guide Maryland’s progress today.
Now at the helm of the Office of Statewide Broadband, Ronnie oversees more than $700 million in broadband investments, directing resources toward expanding infrastructure, improving affordability, and supporting digital literacy. Under his leadership, Maryland has connected more than 160,000 households and community anchor institutions with affordable broadband service, devices, and training, bringing the state closer to its ambitious goal of achieving universal connectivity by 2028.
Beyond the numbers, Ronnie is known for his commitment to community-centered solutions. He works closely with local governments, nonprofits, and private providers to ensure that investments reach the residents who need them most. His vision is not only to connect homes, but to empower Marylanders with the tools, skills, and opportunities to fully participate in today’s digital economy.
Ronnie’s innovative leadership and collaborative approach continue to position Maryland as a national model in broadband expansion and digital equity, ensuring that no community is left on the wrong side of the digital divide.