The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) Board announced today the appointment of Edward Parkinson is its new executive director.
FirstNet, a Federal government entity within the Department of Commerce that is working with AT&T to build out a nationwide broadband communications network for first responders, named Parkinson acting executive director in October 2018. He replaced Mike Poth, who resigned in September 2018.
“After conducting a comprehensive and thorough search, we are pleased to announce the selection of Ed Parkinson to be the executive director of the FirstNet Authority,” said Edward Horowitz, FirstNet Authority Board chair. “Ed’s leadership has been instrumental to the success of FirstNet, and he brings a passion and vision for the job that will ensure the organization continues to deliver for our nation’s first responders.”
In a statement, FirstNet Authority said Parkinson was “one of the first employees” to join the organization in 2013. He has served in various roles since then, including executive director of external affairs. Prior to joining FirstNet Authority, he worked for the U.S. House Homeland Security Committee for then-Chairman Peter T. King, R-N.Y., and helped draft the initial bill that eventually created FirstNet.
