How Wireless-First Networks Are Reshaping IT Strategy with Gary Trobaugh

When every second counts—as it does in emergency medical transport—network connectivity can’t be an afterthought. In this episode of Go Beyond the Connection, Gary Trobaugh, Director of Information Technology at Life Flight Network, shares why going wireless-first isn’t just a tactical decision—it’s a strategic imperative.

Why Wireless-First Is a Competitive Advantage

For Life Flight Network, the ability to quickly stand up new operational bases in rural or remote areas is non-negotiable. Traditional wired connections often fall short, both in deployment speed and flexibility. That’s where wireless-first comes in.

“Wireless is the future. You need to embrace it, get comfortable with it, and utilize it.” – Gary Trobaugh

From cellular to satellite, a wireless-first approach allows Gary’s team to maintain uptime, scale on demand, and serve life-critical operations without infrastructure bottlenecks. It’s not just about going faster—it’s about moving smarter.

Scaling with Agility—Without Sacrificing Security

Gary is quick to point out that speed means nothing without security. In healthcare and aviation, protecting sensitive data like patient health records (PHI) is a must. That’s why his team layers in secure routers, encrypted connections, and strict endpoint controls.

“The biggest question for me is what data you plan to transmit.”

His advice? Plan your wireless-first architecture with security baked in from the start. It’s the only way to stay compliant and confident in mission-critical settings.

A More Flexible IT Infrastructure

Life Flight Network’s wireless-first strategy is built on one key principle: adaptability. Whether opening a new base or upgrading an existing one, wireless connectivity allows them to deploy faster and respond to evolving needs without red tape.

This flexibility means more than convenience—it drives better outcomes. In competitive markets, the ability to react swiftly can define leadership.

Want more insights from Gary?

Read the article: Lifesaving connectivity: How Life Flight Network stays connected in remote areas with Bigleaf

▶️ Watch the full episode below to hear how a wireless-first mindset is helping Life Flight Network lead with innovation, security, and speed.

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