WASHINGTON – The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) Board announced today the hiring of Bill D’Agostino, Jr. to be its General Manager. D’Agostino is an accomplished telecommunications and wireless industry executive, with 33 years of experience designing, operating and upgrading telecommunications networks.
“I’m very pleased that Bill has joined FirstNet as our General Manager,” said FirstNet Board Chairman Sam Ginn. “Bill has a proven track record as an effective and strategic telecommunications industry executive. He brings a customer-focused perspective that will serve us well as we develop plans for this dedicated public safety network.”
D’Agostino most recently served as Executive Director, Network for Verizon Wireless in Southern California from 2008-12. Prior to that, he held executive positions in a number of other communications firms including Sprint PCS, Airtouch Communications and Pacific Bell.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead this organization and to work with the FirstNet Board as we set out to deliver the nation's first responders with a communications platform that will enhance their ability to protect and serve the public,” said D’Agostino. His first day as General Manager was April 22, 2013.
“I am confident that Bill D’Agostino is the right choice as General Manager of FirstNet,” said FirstNet Board member Charles “Chuck” Dowd, Deputy Chief of the New York City Police Department. Dowd served on the FirstNet Board’s General Manager selection working group. “Throughout the selection process his selflessness and personal integrity were readily apparent. I’m convinced he is fully committed to public safety’s mission.”
FirstNet will provide emergency responders with the first high-speed, nationwide network dedicated to public safety. FirstNet is designed to improve communication among local, state, regional and national emergency services personnel. The broadband data network will help save lives and protect the health and safety of all Americans. It will be built using LTE, the most advanced wireless technology available today. FirstNet fulfills a fundamental need of the public safety community for a single, mission-critical communications system enabling force multiplier effectiveness. Overseen by representatives of public safety, government and the wireless industry, FirstNet is an independent entity within the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Telecommunications and Information Administration (www.firstnet.gov).
