FCC Selects New Wireless Telecom Bureau Chief

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An economist and attorney with extensive FCC and private-sector experience is FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s choice to serve as chief of the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau.


Pai intends to appoint Donald Stockdale, who will rejoin the Commission from Bates White Economic Consulting, where he has been a partner.  Prior to that, he worked on telecom regulatory and antitrust issues as a partner at Mayer Brown LLP.

“Consumers around the world are increasingly relying on wireless services,” Pai said.  “This makes it important for the FCC to get it right when it comes spectrum and infrastructure, the building blocks of advanced wireless networks.  And getting it right requires us to focus, among other things, on principles of law and sound economics.  Don’s unique skills and experience will help ensure that the FCC’s approach benefits consumers by fostering wireless growth, competition, and innovation.  I’m proud that we are adding another talented member to our great wireless leadership team.”

Stockdale will be working closely with Nese Guendelsberger who, having served as acting bureau chief, will continue to help lead the bureau as Senior Deputy Bureau Chief.

Meanwhile, Chairman Pai intends to appoint James Schlichting, who currently serves as Senior Deputy Bureau Chief in the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, to the same position in the International Bureau.

Pa said,   “And with the unique spectrum challenges that will accompany the 5G transition, it is critical that we have someone with Jim’s experience helping to lead the International Bureau.  I give my sincerest thanks to both Nese and Jim for their work and their continued dedication to the American people.”

The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau develops and executes policies and procedures for fast, fair licensing of all wireless services, ranging from fixed microwave links to amateur radio to broadband data services on mobile phones.

The Bureau oversees nearly two million licenses, conducts auctions to award services licenses, and manages the tower registration process.