New FirstNet Authority CEO and Executive Director Michael Cannon recognized the FirstNet system’s success to date but emphasized that “we are far from done” in his first public speech since being named as the leader of the organization charged with overseeing the nationwide public-safety broadband network (NPSBN).

Named to head the FirstNet Authority last month, Cannon said he was attracted to the job by the importance of the organization’s mission to support public safety with reliable broadband connectivity, even in the most difficult circumstances.

“FirstNet matters when people are in their most dire need—when they are the most vulnerable,” Cannon said during his keynote speech at the 5x5 Summit conducted last week in Bellevue, Wash. “Additionally, when disaster strikes, having a reliable communications system in place for first responders can mean the difference between life and death.

“At the FirstNet Authority, we get to help. Our mission is clear: When lives are on the line, our job is to make sure that the first responders have a network that works when it matters most.”

Cannon applauded the development of FirstNet to date, citing contractor AT&T’s reports that the NPSBN provides more than 7 million connections to more than 30,000 public-safety agencies. However, he stressed the need to better the capabilities of the FirstNet system.

“We are far from done. The network must continue to evolve,” Cannon said. “We need to stay ahead of emerging challenges and stay responsive to the needs of those who are on the front lines.”

Cannon reiterated this theme later in the speech.

“We have to keep improving FirstNet,” he said. “The network is delivering what it is designed to do today, but we must continue to improve the network for tomorrow, both in terms of coverage and capability.

“FirstNet should be a network that anticipates needs before they arise. It should evolve, and that is one of our statutory mandates.”

Cannon did not offer many specifics during his speech, notably not mentioning the fact that the FirstNet Authority needs to be reauthorized by Congress by February 2027 to continue pursuing its mission—something his predecessor, Wassel, labeled as a priority for the organization prior to his departure.

While he did not mention reauthorization, Cannon proclaimed his dedication to the future of the FirstNet Authority and the NPSBN.

“I am deeply committed to pushing forward on several fronts that I hope will aim to strengthen the FirstNet Authority and our support of public safety,” Cannon said. “At the top of my list is doing what I can to ensure the long-term success of the program.

“We’ve done great work through our partnerships and the support we have received thus far. I’m committed to continue to facilitate relationships—[the] long-term support that we need to continue to make FirstNet the best network for public safety going forward.”

In addition, Cannon said he is committed to working with the Public Safety Advisory Committee (PSAC), the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), and AT&T, which has a 25-year contract that extends to 2042 to build, maintain and enhance the NPSBN.

Cannon also thanked the FirstNet Authority board.

“I am committed to working with our FirstNet board,” Cannon said. “I am indebted to them for the kindness and support they have shown me as I’ve taken over the helm of this organization.”

Finally, Cannon asked members of the public-safety community to provide input about the best ways to improve the NPSBN in a manner that helps them provide better, safer responses to emergencies.

“We will continue to partner with public safety,” Cannon said. “Public safety lets us know what works and what doesn’t. Public-safety feedback is critical to the long-term success of the network and of the FirstNet Authority.

“My message to public safety is clear: We need you. You’re the experts. You’re the ones answering the calls and responding to the calls. You’re the ones on the front lines. Please continue to reach out.”