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Conference: March 16-19, 2026
Exhibits: March 18-19, 2026
West Hall , Las Vegas Convention CenterLas Vegas, NV

2026 Agenda

Lessons from the Hot Seat – National Capital Region Interoperable Communications

Michael Baltrotsky  (Assistant Fire Chief / CIO, Montgomery County Maryland - Fire & Rescue Service)
Gabe Elias  (Statewide Interoperability Coordinator, State of Virginia)
Jack Markey  (Statewide Interoperability Coordinator, State of Maryland)
Stuart Sanz  (Interoperable Comms & Radio System Manager, Arlington County, Virginia)
Scott Boggs  (Managing Director-Homeland Security & Public Safety, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments)
Adam Eldert  (Director, Public Safety Division - Dept of IT, Fairfax County, VA)
Location: W214
Date: Tuesday, March 17
Time: 2:55 pm - 3:55 pm
Track: First Responders
Topics: LMR & PTT, Network Infrastructure, Regulation & Standards, Situational Awareness
Format: Panel Session
Vault Recording: TBD

Communication is everything, especially when it comes to voice, data, and video interoperability. In the National Capital Region, we don't just talk; we talk, talk, and talk some more to ensure every system connects flawlessly. Whether it's emergency responders coordinating during a crisis, agencies sharing vital information, or teams managing complex operations, seamless communication is absolutely critical.

We invest countless hours planning, testing, and refining our interoperable communications systems so that no message gets lost, no call drops, and no video feed glitches. The goal is simple: complete, reliable interoperability that bridges different technologies and agencies, ensuring everyone stays on the same page, all of the time.

But even with all that preparation, sometimes things don't go as planned. When communications break down despite our best efforts, we learn valuable lessons. Those challenging moments teach us how to adapt, improve, and innovate so we can overcome unexpected obstacles in the future.

This ongoing cycle of talking, listening, and learning strengthens our commitment to reliable interoperable communications. It's a continuous journey to keep our voice, data, and video channels connected, no matter what challenges arise.

Takeaway

Strategies to ensure flawless integration of voice, data, and video systems for real-time information sharing.
How strong teamwork and communication boost emergency response effectiveness across agencies.
Common obstacles in interoperable communications and practical solutions to keep systems running smoothly.
Real-world lessons learned and fixes that drive continuous improvement in communication reliability.