Speakers

I have been a telecommunications journalist since 2005, with a focus on network infrastructure and a special interest in the development and evolution of public safety communications. I have covered the U.S. First Responders Network Authority since its inception and have authored a number of in-depth reports on trends in public safety and critical communications, with an emphasis on the use of cellular technology (both LTE and 5G) and in particular, achieving indoor coverage and network resiliency in order to serve first responders. I have a broad and deep understanding of the technologies in use in both public and private public safety networks,  methods of priority and preemption, the relative utility of various spectrum bands for public safety and a thorough understanding of both current public policy related to critical communications and related standards development—as well as the perhaps more exciting aspects of the use of satellite technology, drones, autonomous robots, wearable technology and the connectivity that underpins their capabilities, which are being increasingly put to use to support first responder communications, situational awareness and disaster response. 

I also spent three years of my early career as a local news reporter covering law enforcement, fire and other first responder agencies, including ride-alongs and incident coverage—so I have a good sense from the field of some of the complex incidents and communications challenges that first responders can face.