July 2025 Advisory Board Meeting

Summary:

The discussion focused on initiatives and updates relevant to the development of Puerto Rico's technological and infrastructural landscape. Gail Nolan and Bob Brumley addressed significant topics such as cybersecurity talent in Puerto Rico, which they believe holds potential for business growth. Admiral David Simpson provided insights into the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund, noting the impact of the Senate's reconciliation package on funding for the NOFO3 project, crucial for enhancing Puerto Rico's electrical grid and communication systems. He stressed the need for advocacy to restore these funds.

Gail Nolan introduced a VR telemedicine project aimed at connecting Puerto Rican physicians with the Advocates Health Network, addressing the shortage of specialists on the island. She also highlighted an upcoming project at Hub 787 focused on data management and mentioned leadership changes in the Smart Island broadband initiative, with Heriberto Luna taking on the role of executive director. Bob Brumley discussed the complexities surrounding a recent Request for Information (RFI) related to the FAA MEVA III contract.

The importance of data as a product and service was emphasized by Bob Brumley, who discussed ongoing projects, including an atmospheric analytics program that leverages weather stations in schools. This initiative aims to provide valuable data for various applications, including enhancing air travel safety through real-time weather analytics. Sheilla Torres-Nieves contributed by highlighting research at UPRM related to atmospheric analytics and the establishment of a new Energy and Atmospheric Sciences Lab, set to open in August 2028.

Further discussions included a three-day cybersecurity training course organized by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and the upcoming Caribbean Space Summit. Robert Katz emphasized the importance of supporting Puerto Rico's spaceport initiatives and retaining local talent. Gail Nolan provided updates on the RFI for vertical space launch. The meeting concluded with plans for a follow-up session to continue discussions on these initiatives and the potential for collaboration in various sectors.

Chapters & Topics:

Cybersecurity Opportunities

Gail emphasized the importance of developing cybersecurity capabilities in Puerto Rico, referencing a past discussion with NASA's chief technology officer about the advantages of hiring local talent for projects.

Updates on Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund

Admiral David Simpson discussed the status of the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund, highlighting that while existing projects are secure, the Senate's recent budget decisions have negatively impacted the NOFO3 project in Puerto Rico. He suggested that outreach to Senator Cruz's staff could be crucial in restoring the rescinded funds. Gail Nolan indicated she will follow-up with an advisor to Senator Cruz’ office to better understand the wireless innovation strategy going forward.

Details on RECHARGE Proposal here: https://www.pr5gzone.org/_files/ugd/2090d0_fdc9972c49e24a5c9325fc4ab6b124a0.pdf

VR Telemedicine Project Update

Gail Nolan provided an update on the VR telemedicine project, mentioning a collaboration with Wake Forest Innovation to implement a pilot program in Puerto Rico. The program seeks to connect local physicians with the Advocates Health Network to mitigate the significant shortage of specialists. A live demonstration is planned for late September, pending approval from the HIMSS board.

Smart Island Initiative Updates and Opportunities

Gail Nolan provided updates on the Smart Island broadband initiative, highlighting the appointment of Heriberto Luna as the new executive director. She outlined three key projects for discussion, including the PWSCIF, VR for telemedicine, and the Caribe multi-domain network, which aims to enhance Puerto Rico's global connectivity. Nolan also encouraged participation by other members in upcoming meetings to further these initiatives.

MEVA III RFI Discussion and Project Insights

Bob Brumley provided insights into the recent FAA RFI, describing it as one of the most complicated he has encountered. He mentioned that the delivery date was June 23rd and that his contacts indicated that no submissions were received, as stakeholders awaited feedback on the RFIs to inform the potential restructuring of the previous Verizon contract. The RFI treats regions as a comprehensive data area rather than focusing solely on specific technologies, which might be advantageous for our collective of members as a consortia.

Data Products and Infrastructure Development in the Caribbean

Bob Brumley outlined a vision for integrating data products across the Caribbean and the U.S., focusing on the development of an atmospheric analytics program. This initiative aims to leverage weather stations in schools to generate predictive weather data, which can enhance airport operations and other sectors. Gail Nolan suggested potential alignment with the NTIA NOFO 2 ‘Wireless Heart of America’ proposal and mentioned collaboration opportunities with companies working on wireless security for the Department of Defense.

Atmospheric Analytics and Collaboration Opportunities

Bob Brumley emphasized the importance of timely weather updates for satellite operations and proposed scheduling a follow-up meeting after the holiday. Sheilla Torres-Nieves shared details about UPRM's atmospheric analytics research and the upcoming Energy and Atmospheric Sciences Lab, indicating potential collaboration with Brumley's initiatives. Jose Molina raised a question regarding the application of this technology for enhancing air safety and integrating space flights with aviation.

Weather Data Collection and Analysis for Puerto Rico

Robert "Bob" Brumley outlined a plan to distribute weather stations to over 900 schools in Puerto Rico, enabling students to learn about weather while collecting valuable data. This data will be analyzed using AI and machine learning to assess conditions affecting air travel safety. The collaboration with NOAA will further enhance the accuracy of weather predictions and analytics.

* The role of weather stations in improving air safety and data collection.

Individuals who expressed interest in participating in follow-up discussions include:  Bob Brumley- Laser Light, David Simpson-Virginia Tech, Sheilla Torres-UPR-M, Miguel Velez UPR-B, Linden Dialecki-Exempler, Gilberto Guevara-Science Trust, Linton Wells-George Mason University, John Francis Frias- Defense Entrepreneurs Forum, Jonathan Soto-Nieves-iTerra Solutions, and Sean McDaniels-Assured Space Technologies.  Members should contact Gail Nolan directly to be included in this collaboration. 

Find more information on the MEVA III solicitation here: https://www.pr5gzone.org/_files/ugd/2090d0_43ecd46a187b41808b88d17badea7af2.pdf

Announcements and Upcoming Events

Gail Nolan CEcD indicated that several agenda items would be deferred to the next meeting, which she will facilitate. Juan M. Aguayo-Leal announced a cybersecurity training course from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and Jose Molina provided details about the Caribbean Space Summit, highlighting its focus on integrating the local industry with the space economy.  Links for more information below.

Cybersecurity Training: https://aiaa.org/courses/space-domain-cybersecurity/

Caribbean Space Summit:  https://www.caribbeanspacesummit.org/

Updates on Space Launch Initiatives and Collaborations

Robert S. Katz highlighted his connections with UCF and the significance of Puerto Rico's spaceport for national security and local talent retention. He expressed enthusiasm for developing partnerships to strengthen the region's capabilities. Gail Nolan reported that there has been no updates regarding the posted RFI from the Roosevelt Roads Local Redevelopment Authority, and that perhaps that award would not be made until after a new Executive Director for that organization is appointed.

Discussion on Innovation and Collaboration Opportunities

Jonathan Soto-Nieves highlighted the commitment to advancing defense and innovation initiatives in Puerto Rico. Gail Nolan CEcD mentioned the potential for collaboration with Colonel Decker and the Army Corps of Engineers, particularly regarding a reconstituted advisory board focused on infrastructure innovation.

Action Items:

* Gail Nolan CEcD will post the outline for the PWSCIF proposal on the website for members to review and provide input.

* Gail Nolan CEcD will facilitate another meeting on the atmospheric analytics project to continue discussions and gather input from interested parties.

* David Simpson will provide information on the potential link between the weather station project and the FCC's E-rate program.

* Gail Nolan CEcD will send out information regarding the cybersecurity training course hosted by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.

* Gail Nolan CEcD will set up a meeting with the commander of the Army Corps of Engineers to discuss potential projects and funding opportunities.

Key Questions:

* What are the next steps for the VR telemedicine project?

* How can the PR5GZ align with the Smart Island Initiative and new broadband funding opportunities?

* What is the status of the FAA MIVA 3 RFI and how can Puerto Rico position itself for the contract?

* What are the potential applications of the weather station data for air safety?