This blog is a repost from TribalHub, originally published in the Fall 2023 edition.
At the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) we work to ensure FirstNet, the nationwide public safety broadband network, reaches all responders — including those operating on tribal lands.
From extending coverage into Indian Country’s most rural parts to ensuring that tribal responders have the tools to perform their mission critical work, the FirstNet Authority’s tribal liaison plays a pivotal role in advocating for the communications needs of tribal communities.
New tribal liaison brings real-world experience to the position
Continuing our strong commitment to Indian Country, I am pleased to introduce Jasper Bruner as the FirstNet Authority's new National Tribal Government Liaison. Jasper brings more than 20 years of experience in tribal law enforcement and public safety to his new role. As tribal liaison, Jasper works with tribal public safety leaders to discuss their communications needs and help connect tribes to vital broadband and emergency response resources.
A citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Jasper has spent time in a variety of public safety positions. He began as an officer with the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Lighthorse Police Department in Tulsa, Oklahoma, later taking on the role of police chief for the Makah Tribe in Neah Bay, Washington. He has managed everything from the volunteer fire department to EMS to corrections to animal control.
From these experiences, he understands the importance of meeting face to face with tribal responders to learn about their needs and how to connect them with resources.
“I have always wanted to support Indian Country, to advocate for it and get out and meet people,” he explained. “That's what excites me about my role at the FirstNet Authority. I get to connect with folks and educate them on FirstNet and how it will have a positive impact on their communities.”
Bringing technology to tribal communities
Jasper has extensive experience introducing advances technology systems to tribal communities. As the police chief for the Makah Tribe, he secured funding for a new fire vehicle and ambulance, and to update an EMS facility. He also converted the department's radio system from analog to digital and developed and implemented a plan for a community-wide LTE network. For each project, he had to learn the intricate details of the technology, as well as the federal grants system that would help fund the projects.
He is taking these experiences and lessons learned to help tribes across the country as they adopt FirstNet and broadband technologies.
“I see myself as an educator,” he explained. “The FirstNet Authority connects people, educating them on what's going on with other tribes and FirstNet, and how this federal program can benefit their community. We're here to support you.”
.
