Frequently Asked Questions
What We Do
What does the NWRTC do?
How does the NWRTC work?
How do I use the NWRTC?
What funding does the NWRTC provide?
What are the key resources available through the NWRTC?
What does it cost to use the center?
Is terrorism the only focus of the NWRTC?
What does the NWRTC do?
The NWRTC accomplishes its primary goal of accelerating the development and deployment of effective technologies by:
- Gathering information from regional contacts, agencies, and responders.
- Analyzing information to formulate the new technology requirements and needs expressed by regional stakeholders.
- Sharing information among the regional stakeholders to verify technology requirements and communicates them to DHS headquarters.
The NWRTC also identifies and leads collaborative programs and projects for the testing, evaluation, and deployment of new and advanced technology solutions.
How does the NWRTC work?
The center collaborates on technology issues with agencies and jurisdictions through demonstrations and deployment; communicates issues to DHS; and fosters currency of technologies to users to help strengthen their ability to protect, prevent, and recover from disaster.
How do I use the NWRTC?
The NWRTC can help answer your technology questions; coordinate collaborations, training, deployment, or demonstrations; or connect you with the appropriate agency. If we don’t know the answer to your question or need, we’ll find someone who does. There are three ways to contact the NWRTC:
- Phone: 888-DHS-NWRTC (888-347-6983)
- Email: nwrtc@pnl.gov
- Website: http://nwrtc.pnl.gov
What funding does the NWRTC provide?
In its early phase, on a project-specific, as-needed basis, the center will provide funding to regional participant in specific projects (e.g., the RTII).
What are the key resources available through the NWRTC?
Users can access the depth and breadth of technology resources and expertise within Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, as well as its access to all other national laboratories, university consortiums, and other federal science and technology development institutions.
What does it cost to use the center?
Consistent with the center's available resources, expert assistance and information are provided to state and local users at no charge. For the testing and evaluation of technology, vendors are responsible for the full recovery cost.
Is terrorism the only focus of the NWRTC?
No. The focus includes protection, prevention, and recovery from all hazards, including natural and human-induced disasters.