Federal Communications Commission seal. Photo: Creative Commons license/jeanbaptisteparis via Flickr

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has named Jay Schwarz to lead the FCC’s Space Bureau, Carr announced Feb. 4. 

The Space Bureau, established in 2023, leads policy and licensing matters related to satellite and space-based communications and activities. Schwarz replaces Julie Kearney, who served as the first Space Bureau Chief. 

Schwarz joins the FCC after serving as vice president of Public Policy for Comcast for the past six years. He previously worked for the FCC and served as former Chairman Ajit Pai’s Wireline Advisor. He also held positions at the FCC in the Wireline Competition Bureau, Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, and the Office of Strategic Planning. 

The Satellite Industry Association congratulated Schwarz on the appointment. 

“Throughout his career, Mr. Schwarz has recognized the importance of broadband connectivity and bridging the digital divide. As the satellite industry continues to grow at an unprecedented rate, SIA and its members look forward to working with him, the Bureau and the entire Commission to extend the availability of satellite connectivity and all space-based services,” SIA President Tom Stroup said in a statement. 

The Space Bureau was established in 2023 as separate from the International Bureau in order to streamline how the commission works with the satellite industry. 

Chairman Carr has said one of his priorities for the FCC under his leadership is to create new opportunities for the space economy.