At the IWCE 2024 conference session, leaders from California and Texas discussed the challenges and benefits of transitioning public-safety answering points (PSAPs) to IP-based next-generation 911 (NG911) platforms. Budge Currier, assistant director of public-safety communications for California's Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), described the extensive efforts to migrate 449 PSAPs in the state, highlighting improved system resilience and call-routing capabilities. Despite setbacks, including the need for independent equipment validation, Currier emphasized the advantages realized by PSAPs that completed the NG911 migration.

Christy Williams, director of the North Central Texas Emergency Communications District (NCT9-1-1), shared insights from their journey, including challenges with NGCS procurement and financial considerations after becoming an independent 911 district. Despite setbacks, Williams remained optimistic about the benefits of NG911, emphasizing improved emergency-call management and enhanced connectivity options for PSAPs.

Reflecting on the experience, Williams encouraged others to embrace the NG911 journey, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and continuous improvement in enhancing emergency services. Despite obstacles, both leaders underscored the transformative potential of NG911 and the importance of collaborative efforts in shaping the future of emergency communications.