Powering the Next Generation of Emergency Response
On August 21, 2025, first responders, public safety leaders, and technology innovators gathered at the Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center in Washington, D.C. for the Equipped Mid-Atlantic Technology Summit. This one-day event showcased innovative tools and collaborative strategies designed to empower agencies and strengthen operational resilience.
Event Highlights
Greg Toritto, Lexipol Media Group, Thomas Chenworth, Deputy Fire Chief, DC Fire & EMS, Jeffrey Lenard, DC Fire & EMS, Jennifer Collins, Equipped, Ronit Reguer, DC Fire & EMS.
Inspiring Keynotes & Case Studies
- Potomac River Mid-Air Collision Case Study: Deputy Chief Thomas Chenworth and Firefighter Jeffrey Lenard of DC Fire & EMS led attendees through their coordinated response, emphasizing the use of sonar technology in the search operation, which successfully located every victim. They also highlighted the vital collaboration among multiple agencies. Adding a critical perspective, Behavioral Health Coordinator Ronit Reguer addressed the mental health challenges first responders faced in the aftermath—and even introduced therapy dog Bill during the session. (Photo Above)
Captain Nicholas Picerno, Montgomery County Police Department
- Drone as First Responder (DFR): Captain Nicholas Picerno and the Montgomery County Police Department demonstrated how their groundbreaking Drone as First Responder (DFR) program is cutting response times and improving officer safety.
Marvin “Ben” Haiman, Executive Director, Center for Public Safety and Justice, University of Virginia
- Future of Public Safety Innovation: Marvin “Ben” Haiman, Executive Director, Center for Public Safety and Justice at the University of Virginia, analyzed how disruptive technologies are transforming communications, decision-making, and field operations within public safety.
Actionable Training & Insights
- Funding the Front Line: Lexipol’s Samantha Dorm shared strategies to help agencies identify and secure grant opportunities, including opportunities linked to the “Big Beautiful Bill” and upcoming U.S. 250th anniversary celebrations.
Samantha L. Dorm, Senior Grant Consultant, Lexipol
- Immersive Training Tech: The U.S. Fire Administration’s Kate Kapalo outlined actionable strategies to expand the use of immersive learning in public safety, focusing on accessibility, equitable, and effectiveness to enhance preparedness.
Dr. Kate Kapalo, Course Instructor, US Fire Administration.
- UAS Credentialing: ASSUREd Safe underscored the importance of national-level standards to ensure safe and effective drone operations.
BJ McClenton, Associate Director and Scott Bowins, Deputy Director, Strategic Partnerships, ASSUREd Safe.
Tech Innovators Pavilion
Key Takeaways
- Technology adoption is accelerating across police, fire, EMS, and emergency management.
- Agencies are seeking practical solutions that improve response times, enhance safety, and streamline operations.
- Funding and credentialing remain top priorities to ensure technology is accessible, scalable, and sustainable.
- Collaboration between innovators and practitioners is essential to drive meaningful change.
Looking Ahead
The Mid-Atlantic Technology Summit reaffirmed the importance of equipping first responders with tools and knowledge to meet evolving challenges. Thank you to our Co-host Lexipol Media Group, and to all sponsors, exhibitors, speakers, and attendees who made this year’s Summit a success.
We look forward to continuing the conversation year-round through Equipped Talks, webinars, and Industry Insights—and to welcoming you back to next year’s Summit.
