Hannasch successfully implemented a strategic plan that increased broadband penetration to industry benchmarks three years ahead of schedule, leading to a 10% increase in overall penetration within four years. Described as the consummate servant leader, she is incredibly successful at getting everyone to champion a shared vision.
“A favorite trend from the past year is the shift toward mental health awareness in the workplace. Recognizing the importance of mental health is not just a trend but a long-overdue evolution in how we support employees. This hits home for me as it aligns with the causes I hold close.”
What’s a skill you’re currently working on? (work-related or non-work-related) I’m working on developing a stronger, more inclusive sales culture at our company. Creating an environment where everyone can contribute to growth, regardless of their department, and feel confident in selling our services is a key focus of mine.
Who is a female athlete you admire and why? I deeply admire Allyson Felix. Her grace, resilience, and advocacy for women in sports, especially around maternal health, resonate with me. She’s shown that being an elite athlete and advocating for change can coexist, which mirrors the way I strive to balance leadership with advocating for employee well-being.
What podcast do you recommend for current and/or aspiring leaders? I recommend The Dare to Lead podcast by Brené Brown. She tackles vulnerability, courage, and empathy in leadership, which is essential for building authentic relationships in the workplace. It’s something I strive to do as well.
How has work changed for women in corporate America over the last 10 years? The conversation around equity and inclusivity has gained much-needed momentum. We’ve seen shifts in policy and culture that support women better—whether it’s increased flexibility, stronger parental leave policies, or more women breaking into leadership roles. But there’s still a long way to go, especially in male-dominated industries like ours.
If you could compete in one game or competition series, which would it be and why? I’d choose The Amazing Race. My family and I love traveling, and I think the strategic problem-solving, teamwork, and cultural immersion would be incredible. Plus, I’m always up for an adventure that challenges me both mentally and physically!
What’s the toughest part about being a leader in the industry? The constant need to balance rapid technological changes while keeping our teams motivated and customer-focused. Being in a rural broadband industry also adds unique challenges where resources are stretched, but the reward of connecting underserved communities is worth it.
Is there a moment you’ll never forget because someone wrote you off because of your gender? Early in my career, I transitioned from marketing to operations and was promoted to Director of Operations. As a 30-something woman, leading a team of technicians and technical leaders was initially a challenge. I was written off by some as a “bad promotion” and faced skepticism about my ability to understand their work and advocate for their success. Instead of backing down, I spent my first 90 days riding along with each technician, getting hands-on experience with their daily challenges. I learned what they needed to succeed and how to better support the team from an operational standpoint. Earning their respect through that experience was pivotal, and it reinforced the importance of truly understanding the people behind the work to lead effectively.
What benefits should companies consider offering to support women’s advancement and to make the workplace more equitable? Flexible work arrangements, robust mentorship programs, and paid parental leave are crucial. Additionally, companies should invest in leadership development that specifically targets women’s needs, ensuring more representation at the top levels.
2025 would be Jane Austen’s 250th birthday. How do you think she’d react to Bridgerton? I think Jane Austen would appreciate the wit, complexity of relationships, and the societal commentary in Bridgerton. She’d likely be intrigued by the modern lens on gender and race dynamics but might raise an eyebrow at the more scandalous parts!
How has embracing your authentic self shaped your leadership style? Embracing my authentic self has made me a more empathetic leader. It has allowed me to connect with my team on a deeper level, fostering trust and openness. I’ve learned that vulnerability is a strength, and it has helped me lead with compassion while driving results.
What do you believe is the next big disruption facing the industry? I believe the next major disruption will be the advancement of wireless technology offering speeds that rival fiber. As wireless networks continue to evolve, the potential to deliver gigabit-level speeds without the need for fiber-to-the-home infrastructure will revolutionize broadband, particularly in rural areas. This could drastically reduce the cost and time of deployment while expanding access. It’s a game-changer for areas where fiber installation is challenging, and it will drive fierce competition as providers race to adopt and scale this technology.
What female fictional character would excel in this industry and why? I’d say Ellen Ripley from Aliens would excel in this industry. She’s resourceful, resilient, and unafraid to face challenges head-on, even when the odds are against her. In the broadband industry, where adapting to rapid changes and solving complex problems are essential, Ripley’s tenacity and leadership would be invaluable. She embodies the kind of grit and determination needed to thrive in an industry that’s constantly evolving.