Jörg-Peter Elbers discusses practical AI adoption in optical networks at OFC Conference 2026

• Speakers: Jörg-Peter Elbers, VP of advanced technology at Adtran; Daniel Kilper, Trinity College Dublin; Patricia Layec, Nokia Bell Labs France; Shikui Shen, China Unicom; Andrew Shiner, Ciena; Raghu Valisammagari, Verizon; Cen Wang, KDDI Research Inc.; Larry Zhou, AT&T; Zhou Xu, ByteDance Ltd; Zuqing Zhu, the University of Science and Technology of China
• Topics: The intelligent operator: AI’s role in the optical network


• When: Sunday, March 15, 4 p.m. PT
• Where: OFC 2026, Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, California, USA https://www.ofcconference.org

Optical networks are entering a phase of rising complexity driven by higher capacities, tighter latency targets and increasing expectations for automation. Operators must manage this complexity while controlling cost, reducing operational risk and maintaining predictable service quality. Artificial intelligence offers new approaches to network planning, control and assurance, but its value depends on interoperability, security and integration with existing operational processes. Poor data quality, fragmented systems and unclear accountability can limit ROI and slow adoption. For operators, the challenge is not whether AI is powerful, but whether it can be trusted to scale, deliver measurable outcomes and support long-term investment certainty.

In this special OFC session, Jörg-Peter Elbers will join a panel of experts to examine how AI – including large language models (LLMs) and autonomous agents – is reshaping the optical network lifecycle. The discussion will address real-world use cases, including AI-assisted network planning, real-time anomaly detection and predictive maintenance. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how vendors and operators can collaborate to deploy reliable AI technologies that turn operational data into a strategic asset