Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTECH and talking to Gail Wong, Head of Marketing IoT Asset Management Solutions with AT&T about "Rapid Response - Quick deployment of cellular services for first responders".


Scott MacKenzie and Gail discussed the latest innovations in utility industry communication and networking, highlighting the benefits of connecting meters and providing emergency communication solutions for utility providers. Gail emphasized the importance of quick deployment and backup networks in emergency situations, while MacKenzie stressed the crucial role of communication in restoring connectivity. Later, Scott and Gail discussed the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) in fleet operations and the importance of enhancing visibility and operational efficiency in charging infrastructure. Both speakers stressed the importance of data-driven decision-making and strategic planning to optimize fleet operations and achieve sustainability goals.
Action Items

[ ] Connect with Gail Wong on LinkedIn (@linkedin.com/in/gailpeterwong) or via email (Gail.Wong@att.com) for more information on ATT's connectivity solutions.
[ ] Check out ATT's booth at Distributed to see demonstrations of their emergency response technologies like the cellular-enabled helicopter.
[ ] Consider how fleet telematics data and electrification strategies could help utilities prepare for the rise in electric vehicles and charging infrastructure needs.
[ ] Continue expanding the FirstNet emergency responder network and connected vehicle capabilities.

Outline
Connectivity and innovation in the telecommunications industry.

Scott MacKenzie welcomes Gail to the podcast and praises her work with Siemens.
Gail shares her experience working with Siemens and discusses the company's innovations.
Scott MacKenzie and Gail discuss the potential of satellite technology to improve connectivity, particularly in areas with minimal coverage.
They explore the possibility of using satellite signals to beam cellular and data signals directly to phones, potentially saving lives in emergency situations.

Utilizing technology to improve utility operations and emergency response.

Gail highlights how connected devices can reduce costs and provide better visibility for utilities.
Gail details FirstNet's progress, goals, and new $6B funding for responder network.
Gail describes a rapid deployment vehicle and helicopter with cellular capability for emergency response communication.

Emergency response and communication technology.

Gail describes how the team deploys assets quickly (100-200 miles) and reroutes traffic when fiber cuts occur.
Gail explains how trailers with network equipment are used to connect facilities when power is lost or flooded.
Gail discusses utilizing data from connected devices to improve emergency response times.
Gail discusses their experience with Tesla and the importance of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.

Electric vehicle charging infrastructure and its importance for businesses.

Gail discusses the potential for electric vehicles (EVs) to replace gasoline-powered vehicles in fleets, citing cost savings and faster refueling times.
Gail highlights the importance of infrastructure support for widespread EV adoption, including public and office chargers.
Gail highlights lack of visibility in charging infrastructure for non-Tesla EV owners.
Gail Peter Wong shares his wealth of knowledge on industrial talk podcast.