FirstNet in the Field: Discussing Real-World Experiences and Exploring What Could Come Next

FirstNet is the nationwide mobile broadband network dedicated specifically to first responders. Launched in 2018, FirstNet is already creating exciting new possibilities for public safety, as well as many questions.

On October 3, 2019, you are invited to a day-long discussion among public safety professionals about FirstNet—how agencies are using it today and how they could be using it tomorrow. This meeting is hosted by the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) and attendance is free of charge.

Background: September 11, 2001 was a tragic day for the United States and a wake-up call for public safety leaders. One of the critical failures that day was the inability of first responders—police, fire and emergency medical personnel—to communicate with one another because networks were inoperable or overloaded. Out of that tragedy came the idea for FirstNet—a dedicated, nationwide, high-speed wireless network that would enable public safety personnel to communicate reliably in major disasters and during their everyday work.

But public safety leaders still have questions about FirstNet:

• If FirstNet is still being built, why would I switch before it is done?
• How is FirstNet different from my current cell phone coverage?
• How are other jurisdictions using this new technology?
• What are some real examples of how FirstNet is making a difference in agencies?
• To help public safety professionals answer some of their questions and benefit from one another’s experiences, PERF is facilitating the meeting on October 3.

What We Will Discuss: The conversation will include:

• The current status of FirstNet’s build-out
• How mobile applications on FirstNet create new options for public safety
• Lessons others have learned from deciding when to join FirstNet and making the transition
• FirstNet’s role in some of the region’s major event responses
• The day-to-day experience of first responders using FirstNet

Who Should Attend: This event will be a valuable exchange of ideas, questions, and experiences among senior public safety professionals (law enforcement, fire, EMS, 911, etc.) who are:

• Just beginning to explore FirstNet
• In the process of adopting FirstNet
• Already using FirstNet
• Individuals at the chief or director-level (or their designees) are especially encouraged to attend. Please note, registration is currently open to FIRST RESPONDERS ONLY.

When:

Thursday, October 3, 2019
8:30 am – 4:00 pm (Breakfast and Lunch will be provided)
PERF will also host a reception for attendees on the evening of Wednesday, October 2 from 6:00-8:00 pm.

Where:

DoubleTree San Jose
2050 Gateway Place
San Jose, California 95110

How to Register: There is no charge to attend this meeting. However, seating is limited, and all participants must register in advance. First responders may register by emailing Jason Cheney at [email protected].

Hotel Rooms: For participants needing hotel rooms, PERF has secured a room block at the DoubleTree in San Jose at a rate of $229 per night. The hotel offers a free shuttle service to/from the San Jose Airport (SJC) that operates every 20 minutes. To book a room for the night of October 2nd, click here or call (408) 453-4000 and mention the group code CDTPOL.

For More Information: We hope you (or a senior representative of your agency) will be able to join with other public safety partners for PERF’s meeting on October 3 in San Jose. If you have any questions regarding this event, please contact PERF Research Associate Jason Cheney ([email protected]).