August 15, 2008
 

Governor Napolitano, Legislature Send PSCC to GITA
Team Being Hired to Lead Statewide Public Safety Communications Interoperability

 

Governor Napolitano and the Arizona State Legislature transferred the Public Safety Communications Advisory Commission (PSCC) to the Government Information Technology Agency (GITA) during the second regular session of the 48th legislature. The transfer takes advantage of GITA's extensive experience in managing strategic initiatives, partnering with subject matter experts to build coalitions and delivering complex information technology projects.

PSCC was created to facilitate coordinated response and protect lives and property in Arizona by guiding development of interoperable communications between local, county, state, tribal, and federal public safety agencies. Whether for routine operations, emergencies or disasters, public safety response from multiple jurisdictions or disciplines is often required. First responders need to communicate across disparate systems and technology platforms.

“Communications between jurisdictions is essential in the public safety community, day to day as well as during emergencies,” said State CIO Chris Cummiskey. “In the coming months, GITA and PSCC will continue to implement Governor Napolitano's vision for communication interoperability in Arizona.”

GITA is building a professional team dedicated to providing the highest level of communication interoperability among first responders statewide. Interested parties can find details and job descriptions at www.azgita.gov/pscc . Individuals knowledgeable regarding voice and data communications, passionate about public safety and interested in serving Arizona should apply to join the team.

Current positions being recruited for are:

• •  Interoperability Oversight Manager

• •  Statewide Interoperability Coordinator

• •  Interoperability Outreach Manager

With the support of the law enforcement community and members of the PSCC, the GITA team can assure that our first responders will communicate effectively with one another.