After the tragedies of September 11, 2001 highlighted fundamental issues within the nation’s first responder communications systems, the 9/11 Commission recommended creating a single, nationwide broadband network for public safety. The FirstNet Authority was created through the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act to carry out that recommendation. Today, the FirstNet Authority is working to keep public safety connected during every emergency.

The FirstNet Authority is excited to participate in the National Association of Emergency Medical Technician’s World Trauma Symposium virtual conference. FirstNet Authority staff will host a virtual booth to share information and answer questions about how FirstNet supports emergency medical services.

On August 17, 2020, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the appointment of Robert Tipton (Tip) Osterthaler to serve as Chair of the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) Board. With decades of experience in both the public and private sector, he shares how he will work with public safety and draw on the strengths of FirstNet’s unique public-private partnership to enhance public safety’s network.

As a former Sheriff and elected official in the state of Minnesota, Richard Stanek has been engaged in public safety communications at the local, state, and national levels throughout his career. From working on a statewide LMR network to setting up a state-of-the-art 911 center to serving six years on the FirstNet Authority Board, he has seen firsthand how technology can help first responders do their jobs safer and more efficiently.

The International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) is dedicated to promoting the principles of emergency management and the work of those who protect communities during emergencies and disasters. As a member of the FirstNet Authority’s Public Safety Advisory Committee, IAEM provides input on issues that are essential to emergency managers.