IT Emergency Operations

The STRAC Information Technology - Emergency Operations (IT-EOPS) Team provides network and communications support that allows Emergency Managers and Responders to function effectively in adverse conditions.  Utilizing a broad array of technologies, Critical Information System Engineers from the IT-EOPS Team deploy to affected areas during disasters to set up and manage computer networks and communications systems. 

The IT-EOPS Team can provide broadband Internet access, Voice-Over-IP Telephone service, and two-way radio service in an affected area that has been left without power or communications.  The Team can also facilitate Interoperable radio communications between different responding agencies, which is critical in large-scale responses. 

The IT-EOPS Team responds to a wide range of incidents, from an isolated phone system failure at a health care facility, to a hurricane hitting the Gulf Coast of Texas.  The Team is structured to provide a Rapid-Response capability, and can respond to multiple areas simultaneously if necessary. 

IT-EOPS Team members may also respond to unaffected areas to support the activities of an Incident Management Team or Incident Support Team.  In this capacity, the team provides more conventional system and network administration support, ensuring that the IMT or IST has access to computers, printers, faxes, and other technologies needed to execute their mission.