NGA Expands Leadership in Emergency Communications
NGA, a frontrunner in Next Generation 911 (NG911) technology, has recently made a significant addition to its leadership team. Howard Tien, a veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), has been appointed as the Vice President of Product Implementation, tasked with overseeing the critical deployment of NG911 across California.
The Role of Howard Tien
Howard Tien's journey in emergency communications began nearly a decade ago when he served as the lead systems administrator for the LAPD's 9-1-1 operations. His extensive experience encompasses both legacy and modern platforms, including the ATT/Intrado 9-1-1 telephony system and the Motorola PremierOne CAD, which are essential for managing call-taking positions and supporting over 1,800 patrol vehicles in Los Angeles. Tien's operational expertise will be pivotal in ensuring a smooth and efficient transition to NG911 in California.
In his new role, Tien will act as a liaison between NGA, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), and Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) throughout the state. His appointment underscores NGA's commitment to providing reliable emergency communication solutions. As California modernizes its emergency services, Tien will ensure the deployment aligns with the needs of PSAPs while facilitating interagency collaboration.
A Vision for Future Emergency Responses
NGA's ambitious plan aims to enhance the state's emergency communications infrastructure significantly. Tien’s leadership role is crucial, especially as the state prepares for high-profile global events such as the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games. By strategically guiding and overseeing the implementation efforts, Tien will help ensure that California’s PSAPs are equipped with the necessary tools and training to adapt effectively to NG911’s capabilities.
Moreover, Tien's responsibilities will extend beyond implementation; he will streamline communication across NGA’s product, support, and customer success teams. This cross-functional alignment will aid in meeting the practical realities that PSAPs encounter daily, ultimately leading to a smarter and more responsive emergency communication system.
Strengthening the Team
In conjunction with Tien's appointment, NGA has also welcomed Ricardo Reyes as Senior Project Manager. With over 25 years of experience in E911 system installation and configuration, Reyes's expertise will complement Tien’s leadership as they tackle the complexities of deploying NG911 solutions. Previously a lead technician at ATT, Reyes specializes in VoIP-based public safety infrastructure, making him an asset to NGA's mission.
Barbara Winn, the Chief Growth Officer of NGA, emphasized Reyes's extensive knowledge of system intricacies and relationships with the agencies involved, further solidifying NGA's capacity to address California’s urgent technological needs.
Commitment to Reliable Emergency Communications
NGA’s goal is clear: to deliver a next-generation emergency communication system that is reliable, fast, and resilient. The company is dedicated to advancing the capabilities of emergency response through innovative technology, aiming to ensure that voice, text, and media transmissions during emergencies are delivered swiftly and accurately.
As NGA embarks on this new chapter with Howard Tien and Ricardo Reyes, the company is poised to set a new standard for excellence and reliability in emergency telecommunications. This transformation not only serves California communities but also aligns with NGA's vision to innovate and influence global emergency communication dynamics.
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