My Time as a Fed has Come to an End

It is hard to believe that close to four years have gone by since Wayne Leighton called me at Georgetown asking if I would be interested in advising the Federal Communications Commission. That started my detail to the FCC, which resulted in a call from Michael Kratsios and an extension of my detail to join the Office of Science and Technology Policy. A recall to the FCC to advise on more matters followed. But, as all good things must come to an end, my last day as a Federal detailee was last week.

My initial incentive to join the FCC was to address the scourge of illegal robocalling. However, the array of items I had the privilege to work on was vast, like supply chain, Keri’s Law, rural and underserved community broadband access, number portability, broadband measurement, international equities, false base stations, enhancements to wireless alerts, improving the quality of service for the deaf community while reducing costs and increasing options, revisiting our 25-year-old definitions of digital amateur radio transmissions, and, of course, 5G and the Commission Meeting known as “satellite day.” That being said, I am most proud of our work on 988, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline.

I was honored to have my regular meetings with Ajit Pai, Mignon Clyburn, Michael O'Reilly, Jessica Rosenworcel, and Geoffrey Starks to discuss the technology affecting the Commission, their interests, and their special projects. I am also honored to have my detail span two Administrations.

My initial incentive to join OSTP was to help solve the transfer of 100 MHz of Federal spectrum in the 3.45 GHz band. Many administrations attempted to make this spectrum available for non-Federal use. The closest attempt took over six years and resulted in an incredibly complex sharing system for the CBRS band. While the first of its kind in the world, it also greatly limited the commercial value of the spectrum through the complexities for implementation and the low power levels authorized when the spectrum could be used. Working closely with DoD and Fred Moorefield, Thomas Taylor, and others, we were able to break free the 3.45 GHz spectrum at full power without having to connect to databases or other complexities for deployment. The result: the FCC’s upcoming Auction 110.

Spectrum was a just component of #5G and Beyond. Working with Robin Colwell, Joshua Steinman, and the NSC and NEC staff we delivered on securing America’s networks, supply chain, R&D, and American competitiveness.

When the pandemic hit, I thought it would derail everything. However, the pandemic only heightened the importance of broadband access for everyone. It was not just a matter of the “Homework Gap,” but it now became the primary way for many Americans to interact with their government, go to work, get their news, and shop for food. Working with HHS to ensure facilities and training was available for telehealth, especially in rural areas, hopefully improved outcomes.

I want to thank the FCC and White House staff for welcoming me, helping me navigate the Federal government, and helping make our work a success. Your dedication to public service and the public interest is inspiring!