In this blog: 

1. Nationwide 911 emergency systems are being updated with Geographic Information System (GIS) data. 
2. 911 systems will be faster and use better information than the current fifty-year-old system built for landlines. 
3. Megan contributes to shaping the standards and documentation of the Next Generation 911 (NG911) system. 
4. Megan's national-level project brings cutting-edge knowledge into Minnesota and ensures that National Emergency Number Association (NENA) standards and best practices do not conflict with local needs. 

MNIT GIS Technician, Megan Sisko given NENA Rising Star Award 

When it comes to providing emergency services, response teams need information fast, and they need it to be accurate. To achieve that level of service, Megan Sisko, a MNIT GIS Specialist within the Minnesota Geospatial Information Office, has taken on an exciting project set to revolutionize 911 systems nationwide and in Canada.  

For her work, Megan received the first Rising Star Award issued by the National Emergency Number Association (NENA), a non-profit professional organization that creates standards, guidelines, and education materials for 911 operations and technology. The award acknowledges her exceptional contributions to NG911, a nationwide initiative revolutionizing the 911 system. 

We spoke with Megan about her work on this exciting project. Read on to learn how her work updating emergency systems will modernize emergency services and what this award means for MNIT and professionals working to update our technology systems. 

What is Next Generation 911? 

Next Generation 911 (NG911) will modernize traditional emergency response systems. The current system is over fifty years old and is based on landline telephones. Megan contributes to shaping the standards and documentation that will guide the upgrading of emergency response services. 

During a 911 call, every second is crucial. NENA's objective is to establish uniformity and accuracy in data and operations throughout every aspect of emergency response. Vital GIS data integrated into NG911 ensures that 911 calls are directed promptly to the appropriate call center.  

By delivering precise information faster, improving emergency call categorization, and accelerating data provision, we enhance first responders' effectiveness in emergencies. 

Megan's role: shaping standards for NG911 documentation 

As the co-chair of NENA's "Utilization of GIS Data in NG911 Core Services Workgroup," Megan documents the usage of GIS data in NG911. She provides helpful suggestions and facilitates workgroup discussions to help emergency response services use GIS data correctly. 

Megan earned the Rising Star Award by collaborating with NENA on the NG911 project. When asked what this award meant to her, she noted the recognition highlights the excellent work of the entire team. She emphasized that it is a result of the support she received from NENA, MNIT, and the Department of Public Safety’s Emergency Communication Networks Division which supports the state’s 911 network.  

Megan sees this recognition as an opportunity to inspire emerging professionals to participate in similar initiatives. 

She said, “It just goes to show that everyone brings something to the table. I've learned a lot from my work with NENA. I’ve learned leadership and collaboration skills that help me to translate the work I do at MNIT to improve communication and teamwork.” 

Memorable experiences and challenges in NENA workgroups 

Megan shared her positive experiences working with a diverse group of people in NENA's workgroups. Her collaboration extended to those responsible for building the equipment and software for NG911, as well as GIS data developers and end-users of 911 services.  

Megan noted that their contributions and perspectives shaped a higher degree of standards and best practices for NG911. 

Megan also acknowledged the challenges of managing conflicting opinions within such a diverse group. Finding agreement among varying viewpoints can be demanding. But, she said, it was precisely this diversity that fueled the innovation and progress of NG911. 

Contributions benefiting Minnesotans and beyond 

Megan explained how her work is beneficial for Minnesota and for the entire nation. 

Her team at MNIT closely coordinates with the Minnesota Geospatial Advisory Council’s Standards Committee. The knowledge she brings from NENA is crucial for informing state standards that match national 911 needs. By participating in this work, Minnesota can more easily meet national expectations. 

Additionally, Megan serves as a voice for Minnesota. NG911 provides her with a valuable platform to communicate Minnesota’s needs on the national level. By advocating for Minnesota, she ensures that NENA doesn't create standards and practices that conflict with Minnesota’s. 

Megan’s award is a nod to the collaborative spirit of all MNIT staff  

Megan's Rising Star Award represents an incredible personal achievement and underscores the collaborative spirit of MNIT staff, who are enhancing services and systems statewide and beyond. As Megan continues to champion the cause of NG911 and GIS data standards, her dedication serves as an inspiration for others to contribute, learn, and make a lasting impact in the realm of emergency services.