This is the latest in a blog series highlighting the associations of the First Responder Network Authority’s (FirstNet Authority) Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC). PSAC members represent associations and agencies from all public safety disciplines, as well as state, territorial, tribal, and local governments. Together, they provide guidance and recommendations to the FirstNet Authority in carrying out its duties and responsibilities. The PSAC’s input is invaluable to the development of FirstNet, the nationwide broadband network dedicated to public safety.
For public safety officials, the ability to communicate and relay vital information across jurisdictions, disciplines, and different levels of government is imperative. In 2010, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) founded the National Council of Statewide Interoperability Coordinators (NCSWIC) to improve communications interoperability for all emergency response providers in federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial governments. Since its inception, the NSCWIC has developed crucial partnerships with emergency response stakeholders and public safety disciplines to advance communications resiliency and interoperability across the nation.
The NSCWIC is comprised of state leaders from the 56 states and territories. NSCWIC members support public safety’s communication interests by assisting states and territories with the essential work undertaken by Statewide Interoperability Coordinators (SWICs). In turn, SWICs serve as coordination points to help identify and implement statewide interoperable emergency communication solutions.
Through the SWICs, the NCSWIC has successfully promoted and implemented strategies to improve the interoperable emergency communications landscape nationwide. These goals have been achieved, due in part, to working alongside the FirstNet Authority and supporting the continued growth and development of the FirstNet network.
Advancing interoperable emergency communications
Brad Stoddard, Director of the Office of Michigan’s Public Safety Communications System, is the NCSWIC representative on the FirstNet Authority’s Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC). Stoddard has experience collaborating with law enforcement, emergency management, crisis management, and emergency medical service organizations. With a background in engineering and a foundation of public safety knowledge, Stoddard understands the interoperability complications first responders can face during their day-to-day operations and the role that technology plays in navigating these obstacles. Through his role on the PSAC, Stoddard provides critical input on the interoperable communications needs of first responders.
“From the inception of FirstNet, growth has been recognized. Firsthand accounts show how FirstNet’s data technology have provided capabilities that augment the value of voice and provide enhancements that are now expected by citizens and first responders alike,” said Stoddard.
First responders require access to as much information as possible when responding to a situation, and a nationwide communications network plays a key role in making that happen.
“From the use of aerial vehicles to mini compact rapid deployables, the expansion of the idea of FirstNet has created more paths of technology evolution and adoption for all disciplines of first responders,” explained Stoddard.
The NCSWIC’s work on the PSAC has helped make FirstNet’s interoperable communications network more accessible to responders while also improving their ability to collaborate and exchange information more efficiently, regardless of their location or the emergency they face.
The FirstNet Authority will continue to listen and work with organizations like NSCWIC that are dedicated to supporting America’s first responders in serving their communities ensuring that all of the tools in the toolbox serve the purpose of the job at hand. To learn more about the NCSWIC, visit https://www.cisa.gov/safecom/about-ncswic or engage with the organization on Twitter and LinkedIn. Interested in learning more about the FirstNet Authority or the PSAC? Visit our website at FirstNet.gov.
