APCO's Emerging Technology Forum wrapped up yesterday after two full days of presentations from leading public safety experts before a large audience from the Atlanta metro area and across the country.

 

It began with a keynote address from FirstNet President TJ Kennedy, who debuted an informative video on the promise of FirstNet and 9-1-1 integration. Mr. Kennedy also provided an update on progress being made toward the deployment of the nationwide public safety broadband network. The first day continued with presentations on NG9-1-1, public safety innovations driven by LTE, advanced devices, and mobile apps. Additional sessions addressed new technologies and regulations that are leading to significant improvements in location accuracy for 9-1-1.

 

The second day began with remarks from the Public Safety Communications Research Program's Tracy McElvaney, who gave attendees an inside look into the research and development underway to improve public safety communications, along with plans for up to $300M in additional R&D funding made possible by the same legislation that created FirstNet.

 

Day two also included presentations on the "Internet of Things" for public safety, cybersecurity, data analytics, and an update on regulatory and legislative developments relevant to APCO. We were honored to have FCC Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel join us for a conversation on the promise of new technologies to benefit public safety, and what she's learned from visiting PSAPs across the country.

 

The Tech Forum was a great opportunity for attendees to learn about cutting edge issues, hear from prominent guest speakers, and network with industry experts and public safety communications professionals.

 

Presentation slides are available on the Emerging Technology Forum website.