David Pekoske

On January 20, 2021, President Biden designated David Pekoske as the Acting Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security. David Pekoske was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA's) seventh administrator in August 2017. His five-year term expires in August 2022. He leads a workforce of approximately 64,000 employees and is responsible for security operations at nearly 440 airports throughout the United States. TSA is also the lead federal agency for security of highways, railroads, mass transit systems and pipelines. Under his leadership, TSA improved security for both aviation and surface transportation through close partnerships and alliances, a culture of innovation, and development of a dedicated workforce. In addition to his role as Administrator, Pekoske served as the Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security from April to November 2019. He was also a commissioner on the Cyberspace Solarium Commission that developed a consensus on a strategic approach to defending the United States in cyberspace against attacks of significant consequence.

Before joining TSA, Pekoske was an executive in the government services industry where he led teams that provided counterterrorism, security and intelligence support services to government agencies. He served as the 26th Vice Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, culminating a Coast Guard career of 33 years that included extensive operational and command experience. As the Vice Commandant, Pekoske was second in command, also serving as the Coast Guard’s Chief Operating Officer and Component Acquisition Executive. He is a recognized expert in crisis management, strategic planning, innovation and aviation, surface transportation and maritime security. In addition, he has been twice awarded the Homeland Security Distinguished Service Medal.

Pekoske holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Columbia University and a Master of Business Administration degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.