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Raymond Hardman, founder and CEO of Emerald Broadband, is reshaping the landscape of rural internet connectivity in Oregon, driven by his deep roots in the community and a passion for technology. Raised in Eugene and Elmira, Hardman’s early interest in computing began with a Commodore 64 and grew into a lifelong pursuit of advanced internet infrastructure. “Even early on with computers and dial-up and bulletin board systems… the ability to communicate to a large group of people was more beneficial for opportunities and my own intellectual growth,” said Hardman.
From Homegrown Vision to Regional Impact in Eugene, Oregon
In 2016, he founded Emerald Broadband out of his home in Eugene with the goal of improving local internet connectivity for himself and others. “I thought the best place to build it would be a place where I had intimate knowledge of the roads, streets and the community,” he said. “So I chose where I’ve lived for forty-seven years.” Starting with fiber installations via EUGNet, a city project leveraging unused steam conduits, Hardman expanded Emerald Broadband’s services into rural areas by acquiring Country Vision Cable in 2019. This strategic move allowed him to modernize outdated infrastructure in communities such as Elmira, Cheshire, and Rural Junction City.
The Emerald Broadband Approach to Infrastructure
Emerald Broadband’s approach is distinct in the telecommunications industry. Instead of relying on traditional cable or telecom standards, the company is built on internet-native principles and IEEE standards. “We’re an active Ethernet network leveraging fiber optics… each fiber strand to the home goes to an active node or a switch and that switch carries your traffic separately throughout the network,” explained Hardman. “It’s like having your own privately-owned carpool lane while everyone else is stuck in rush hour traffic.” The company has played a critical role in local emergency response, including restoring internet access to the McKenzie River School District after the 2020 Holiday Farm Fire.
Connectivity as a Catalyst for Community Growth
Hardman sees Emerald Broadband not only as a utility service but as a catalyst for community growth. “The rest of your utilities are likely locally sourced. The Internet has become a crucial utility and should be considered in the same regard,” he said. “If it’s not locally administered, managed or even locally owned, there’s going to be liabilities in regards to functionality during an ecological or diplomatic event.” Emerald Broadband sponsors local events such as Butte-to-Butte, Art in the Vineyard, and the 72-Hour Horror Film Contest, aiming to uplift the region both digitally and culturally. “We aim not only to supply means of communication, but to build and grow with our community that has so much potential and diversity,” Hardman added.
Looking Ahead: Expansion Fueled by Community Demand
As for the company’s future, Emerald Broadband has recently expanded into the southern Eugene area, placing key infrastructure near South Eugene High School and the University of Oregon. “We have more areas we’re expanding into, and the best way for people to get our interest is simply by contacting us and letting us know where they want service,” said Hardman. “We go where the service is most requested and feasible with our speed of growth.” From providing internet to rural preschools to supporting local artists, Emerald Broadband remains committed to improving lives through fast, secure, and community-driven connectivity.
About Emerald Broadband:
Emerald Broadband is a locally-owned and operated internet service provider based in Eugene, Oregon. Founded in 2016, the company delivers high-speed fiber and wireless internet to underserved and rural communities throughout Lane County and beyond, with a mission to support community growth through superior connectivity.
