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“Assess broadband at an incident with After Action Review”; FirstNet Authority logo; Aerial view of incident exercise; Mobile Command vehicle with first responders

As broadband becomes more prevalent in public safety communications, the FirstNet Authority offers the After Action Review (AAR) program — a free service available to any FirstNet subscribing agency to capture best practices and lessons learned related to event planning, logistics, operations, and technology use. The AAR program has made a positive impact on communications usage at events such as the New York International Air Show.

Communications operator at his workstation; A FirstNet SatCOLT

The FirstNet Inject Catalog is a comprehensive searchable tool designed to help emergency planners integrate broadband capabilities into discussion-based (tabletop) and operational (functional and full-scale) exercises. Organizers of the 2019 Central State Communications Exercise, held in Quapaw, Oklahoma, used the Inject Catalog to demonstrate how broadband technologies could enhance operational communications throughout the central states’ region.

A SatCOLT in a rural setting; Communications operator at his workstation; Photo: James Mullen Jr.

The FirstNet Authority team offers advance planning and preparation support to FirstNet users. We work closely with public safety agencies to understand the event, identify first responders’ needs and desired capabilities for that day, and work with our network partner, AT&T, to identify what broadband solutions and coverage are needed to successfully support the event. 

FirstNet Authority Financial Report Fiscal Year 2020; Cell tower

For the eighth consecutive year, the FirstNet Authority received an unmodified, or clean, audit opinion on its financial statements for fiscal year (FY) 2020. The audit identified zero material weaknesses, zero significant deficiencies, and zero management-level control deficiencies. The FirstNet Authority continues to exercise sound stewardship over our financial resources in the interest of public safety’s network.

Annual Report to Congress publication cover; Cell phone tower

Every year, the FirstNet Authority provides a report to Congress outlining the activities, operations, financial condition, and accomplishments from the previous fiscal year. Tom Shull, FirstNet Authority Director of Legislative Affairs, provides an overview of the FirstNet Authority’s Annual Report to Congress for Fiscal Year 2020.