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News Release
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For
Immediate Release: Contacts:
Blue
Ribbon Task Force launches website with
SAN JOSE, CA – The Silicon Valley Blue Ribbon Task Force on
Aviation Security and Technology is soliciting proposals from technology
companies regarding products and ideas for consideration as the Task Force
begins to identify current and emerging technologies for improving security at
U.S. airports, it announced today. Starting today
companies may submit technology proposals by visiting the Task Force’s new
website at www.sjcblueribbontaskforce.org.
The website has been
developed to handle the anticipated responses from technology companies in
Silicon Valley and across the nation and help the Task Force meet its deadline
to complete its work by June. The deadline for making a submission to the Task
Force is 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 30. “Since
September 11, the federal government has been overwhelmed with a high volume of
technology-driven ideas and solutions to improve security and efficiency in our
nation’s airports,” said by U.S. Congressman Mike Honda (D-San Jose).
“One of the
primary goals of the Blue Ribbon Task Force is to provide support and guidance
to the U.S. Department of Transportation by reviewing a wide array of emerging
aviation security technology proposals and recommending the most promising
options to Secretary Mineta, Undersecretary Magaw, the San Jose City Council and
other officials.” San Jose Mayor
Ron Gonzales said, “Our airport is a valuable resource to the nation because
of our relationship to Silicon Valley’s dynamic and innovative technology
community. The Task Force will help
us tap the bright ideas and creative technology products from Silicon Valley
businesses that could enhance aviation safety and improve customer service.” The Task Force
was formed in March by Congressman Honda and Mayor Gonzales to work with Mineta
San Jose International Airport and business and technology leaders in making
recommendations than can enhance national aviation security through technology.
The Task Force is chaired by Symantec CEO John W. Thompson. Thompson recently
appointed Beatriz Infante, CEO of San Jose-based Aspect Communications, as chair
of the Task Force’s Technology Subcommittee. Infante and her subcommittee will
manage the submission process and work with the Mineta San Jose Airport to
review the submissions to determine which are best suited for further
consideration by the Task Force as a whole.
“The members of
the Technology Subcommittee include technology leaders with broad and deep
technical backgrounds who can assess the submissions and determine how various
technologies will help achieve the goals of the Task Force,” said Infante.
“This approach will streamline our process so that the Task Force can
bring ideas with real potential for success to the attention of the Department
of Transportation as quickly as possible.” .
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