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Seventeen years ago, in June 2008, Brian Fontes began his tenure as CEO of the National Emergency Number Association (NENA), where he inherited:
- A membership base of less than 5,000
- An unknown organization struggling with debt
- An uncertain purpose and future in the industry
Today, NENA stands tall with nearly 24,000 members, a robust financial position, and a vital role at the apex of a new digital emergency communications infrastructure globally. This extraordinary transformation speaks volumes about Brian’s vision, grit, and integrity.
📚 A Legendary Career Prior to NENA
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Brian’s journey into communications leadership began at the Federal Communications Commission, where he served as:
- Senior Advisor to Commissioner James H. Quello
- Chief of Staff for the FCC
During this period, Brian shaped critical policies during a pivotal era, contributing to the agency’s efforts to launch PCS spectrum auctions, which ultimately broke the telecom duopoly and fostered competition in wireless services.
His work ethic, transparency, and intellectual rigor left a lasting impression. As former Commissioner Quello remarked, his tenure was “the most efficient and effective” among staff chiefs.
CTIA – The Wireless Association
Following his federal service career, Brian moved to CTIA, where he served as:
- Senior Vice President for Policy & Administration
In this capacity, he became a leading voice for wireless policy, championing enhanced 9‑1‑1 services and spectrum management, while fostering trust across industry, government, and public‑safety stakeholders.
Cingular/AT&T
Brian continued to scale his influence at Cingular Wireless (later AT&T), assuming the role of:
- Vice President, Federal Relations
Here, he navigated major corporate transformation, including the high-stakes acquisition of AT&T Wireless, and built momentum on federal wireless policy in the nation’s capital.
Early Career & International Honors
- Initially, he began his professional life teaching communications at UMass Amherst before bringing his academic perspective to federal telecommunications policy.
- In 1995, President Clinton appointed him Ambassador-level head of the U.S. delegation to the ITU World Radio Conference in Geneva—a pinnacle of international telecom diplomacy.
- Brian further served as Chairman of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s Communication Regulatory Agency (their FCC), steering post-conflict spectrum management through personal risk and deep intercultural collaboration.
✨ NENA’s Transformation Under His Leadership
At NENA, Brian accomplished an exceptional number of initiatives:
- Membership growth from <5,000 to nearly 24,000
- Financial recovery from debt to surplus
- Development and global adoption of NENA i3 Next Generation 9‑1‑1, now a global standard
- ANSI accreditation for NENA as a Standards Development Organization
- Delivery of dozens of technical standards establishing the foundation for modern emergency communications
His relentless emphasis on integrity, transparency, and mission-first leadership strengthened partnerships with federal agencies, international bodies, and PSAPs worldwide.
🔥 A Personal Beacon of Inspiration
Almost fifteen years ago, I experienced Brian’s leadership firsthand when he delivered a talk that changed my trajectory. His message on integrity, public-safety technology, and servant leadership inspired me to join the NENA Institute Board—and ultimately to serve as the Northeast Regional Director.
That single moment, guided by Brian’s clarity of purpose, continues to influence how I serve our community today.
🏛️ Passing the Torch, Continuing the Journey
As NENA’s new CEO, John Provenzano, assumes leadership on Monday, June 14, 2025, Brian transitions to a mentor and advisor. However, his ongoing behind-the-scenes guidance will ensure that NENA and the broader public safety ecosystem remains on a strong and principled course.
Finally – A Personal Thank You
Brian, your career—from academia to federal policy-making, industry leadership, and nearly two decades at NENA—stands as a testament to your unwavering dedication to public service. You’ve set higher standards, driven transformative change, and inspired countless individuals—including myself.
Thank you for being a beacon of integrity, vision, and a mentor. My personal journey in public safety and NENA, as well as the countless lives positively impacted by NG911 across the globe, bears your imprint. We are ALL stronger, safer, and more connected because of you.
As our industry evolves, tomorrow’s leaders must find a trusted mentor to learn from and grow with. Next generation 911 drives the need for continuous innovation and improvement in this critical space. Regardless of the future path they take in this industry, it’s critical that they remember its past is well steeped in knowledge.
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Thanks for spending time with me; I look forward to next time. Stay safe and take care.
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