FirstNet, NIST announce 5×5: The Public Safety Innovation Summit

First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) recently announced this summer’s 5×5: The Public Safety Innovation Summit.

The June 28 to June 30, 2023, event in San Diego, Calif., will unite leaders from public safety, academia, government, and industry to collaborate on responder communications technology.

Per officials, 5×5 is a term used by radio operators to express excellent strength and perfect clarity, also known as loud and clear. The first 5×5 summit will focus on developing and using current and future technologies to support public safety operations.

“The FirstNet Authority is thrilled to join with PSCR (NIST Public Safety Communications Research) to create a unique event for leaders in public safety to exchange ideas and discuss key innovations,” FirstNet Authority Chief Market Engagement Officer Jeremy Zollo said. “We look forward to learning more about public safety’s needs and discussing key innovations that could make the connected responder a reality. We invite all public safety communications leaders to join us.”

Event participants will be able to try the latest innovations in public safety communications technology; learn how technology is presently being used by first responders; share ideas with fellow leaders; and witness demonstrations of the latest public safety devices, apps, and other assets.

“We are excited to present a new, more holistic approach to the future of public safety communications with 5×5,” PSCR Division Chief Dereck Orr said. “The evolution of this event provides an opportunity for leaders across industries to share their unique perspectives and drive change.”