First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) Company Profile

Background

The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) is an independent agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). Established in 2012 under the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act, its mission is to oversee the buildout, deployment, and operation of FirstNet—a nationwide, high-speed broadband network dedicated exclusively to public safety communications. This initiative was a direct response to the communication challenges faced during the September 11, 2001 attacks, aiming to provide a unified, interoperable platform for first responders across the United States.

Key Strategic Focus

FirstNet Authority's strategic objectives include:

• Deployment and Maintenance of FirstNet: Ensuring the nationwide public safety broadband network is robust, reliable, and meets the evolving needs of first responders.

• Public Safety Engagement: Collaborating with local, state, federal, and tribal public safety entities to incorporate their unique communication requirements into the network's development.

• Technological Advancement: Continuously evolving the network with new public safety functions and features, including the nationwide buildout of Band 14 spectrum to enhance coverage and capacity.

Financials and Funding

Congress allocated $7 billion and 20 megahertz of broadband spectrum to establish FirstNet. In 2017, FirstNet Authority entered into a 25-year public-private partnership with AT&T, which committed to investing $40 billion over the contract's lifespan to build and operate the network. This partnership ensures the network's sustainability and continuous improvement without additional taxpayer funding.

Pipeline Development

FirstNet Authority's development milestones include:

• 2018: Launch of the FirstNet network and deployment of the dedicated public safety core.

• 2019: Release of the FirstNet Roadmap, guiding the network's evolution based on public safety's operational needs and technology trends.

• 2020: Approval of over $200 million in investments to expand the deployable fleet and upgrade the network core for 5G capabilities.

Technological Platform and Innovation

FirstNet Authority's technological advancements encompass:

• Dedicated Network Core: A physically separate and highly secure infrastructure that ensures public safety communications are prioritized and protected.

• Band 14 Spectrum: Deployment of the 700 MHz Band 14 spectrum nationwide, providing enhanced coverage and capacity for first responders.

• Secure Information Exchange: Implementation of end-to-end encryption, user authentication, and continuous network monitoring to safeguard sensitive data.

Leadership Team

The FirstNet Authority Board comprises 15 members with expertise in public safety, technology, finance, and public sectors. Key members include:

• Renee Gordon: Acting Board Chair and Director of Emergency & Customer Communications for the City of Alexandria, Virginia.

• Pam Bondi: Former United States Attorney General.

• Kristi Noem: United States Secretary of Homeland Security.

• Russell Vought: Director of the Office of Management and Budget.

In March 2023, Joseph Wassel, a former Department of Defense executive, was appointed as the new CEO of FirstNet Authority.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The public safety communications market is characterized by the need for reliable, interoperable, and secure communication solutions for first responders. The establishment of FirstNet has significantly influenced market dynamics, setting new standards for public safety communications.

Competitor Analysis

• Verizon: Offers a competing public safety broadband network, utilizing its existing infrastructure and dedicated core for public safety communications. While lacking access to Band 14 spectrum, Verizon provides priority access and is exploring preemption capabilities.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

FirstNet Authority's primary partnership is with AT&T, responsible for building and operating the FirstNet network. This collaboration ensures the network's continuous development and alignment with public safety needs. Additionally, FirstNet Authority engages with various public safety organizations and stakeholders to gather input and feedback, ensuring the network evolves to meet operational requirements.

Operational Insights

FirstNet Authority's strategic considerations include:

• Interoperability: Ensuring seamless communication across different agencies and jurisdictions.

• Network Resiliency: Establishing redundant pathways and comprehensive encryption to maintain reliable communications during emergencies.

• Coverage Expansion: Collaborating with local telecom providers to enhance coverage in rural and tribal areas, addressing the digital divide.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

FirstNet Authority's future roadmap focuses on:

• 5G Integration: Upgrading the network core to support 5G capabilities, providing faster and more reliable communications for first responders.

• Enhanced Applications: Developing and integrating applications that leverage the network's capabilities to improve situational awareness and operational efficiency.

• Continuous Public Safety Engagement: Maintaining an ongoing dialogue with the public safety community to ensure the network evolves in line with their needs.