Dear OmniAir Members,

As my tenure as the Chair of the OmniAir Consortium® Board of Directors ends after six fulfilling years, I reflect on our incredible journey together. It has been an honor to witness the growth and accomplishments of this organization, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you for your unwavering support, collaboration, and dedication.

I want to express special thanks to our Executive Director, Jason Conley, and the now Chair, P.J. Wilkens, for their invaluable guidance and support throughout this remarkable period.

Allow me to highlight some key milestones from our shared journey:

1. Global Expansion: In 2017, OmniAir was a burgeoning organization with primarily U.S.-based members. Today, we proudly boast nearly 100 members worldwide, with over half located in Europe or Asia. Our diverse membership now represents a comprehensive cross-section of the globally connected vehicle and tolling ecosystems.
2. World’s First Certification Program: OmniAir achieved a significant milestone by launching the world’s inaugural certification program for LTE-V2X OBUs and RSUs. We’ve successfully qualified test systems and audited and authorized a network of laboratories globally for V2X and tolling testing. Additionally, we introduced a program authorizing field test sites, enabling members to test devices and applications in trusted environments.
3. Expansion of Working Groups: Our Working Groups have grown to encompass new areas such as infrastructure, aftermarket devices, applications, and road usage charge certification. These groups have collectively developed nearly 100 test documents, focusing on conformance, interoperability, and security of devices.
4. Leadership in Organizing Plugfest and Testing Events: OmniAir has emerged as a leader in organizing Plugfest and testing events for connected vehicles, with a global presence in North America, Europe, and Asia. We’ve played a crucial role in advancing connected vehicle technologies by fostering collaboration among device makers, laboratories, test system providers, and engineering firms.
5. Trusted Certification Programs: OmniAir’s connected vehicle certification programs have gained the trust of ITS deployers worldwide. In alignment with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s recent National Plan to Accelerate V2X Deployment, emphasizing “connected interoperability” and certification, OmniAir is positioned to contribute significantly to enhancing safety and innovation in transportation globally.

As I transition to the role of Vice Chair, I am excited to pass the baton to the new Chair, P.J. Wilkens, and continue to collaborate and contribute to the continued growth and success of OmniAir Consortium.

I firmly believe that OmniAir’s mission—to promote interoperability and certification for ITS, tolling, and connected vehicles—is more pertinent now than ever. The technology we champion has the potential to save lives, a cause that resonates deeply with me as a concerned grandparent. I envision a future where our roads are safer for our loved ones, and I am committed to making that vision a reality.

The future for OmniAir is undeniably bright, and I eagerly anticipate our continued progress and contributions to the connected vehicle community.

Thank you for being an integral part of this incredible journey.

Warm regards,

Steve Novosad
Outgoing Chair OmniAir Consortium