On April 10, 2019, David Pekoske was designated by Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Kevin K. McAleenan to serve as the Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Deputy Secretary. He was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the seventh Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration in August 2017.

TSA’s workforce of approximately 60,000 employees, including the Federal Air Marshal Service, ensures security of transportation systems across the United States, and operates a robust aviation security system at over 440 domestic airports. Under Pekoske’s leadership, TSA has raised the security baseline for both aviation and surface transportation through close partnerships and alliances, and a robust homeland security network.

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. Most notably, Pekoske served as the 26th Vice Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard culminating a Coast Guard career that included extensive operational and command experience. As the Vice Commandant, Pekoske was second in command, also serving as Chief Operating Officer and Component Acquisition Executive of the U.S. Coast Guard. He is a recognized expert in crisis management, strategic planning, innovation and port and maritime security.

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 in ocean engineering from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. His awards include the Homeland Security Distinguished Service Medal, Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, Coast Guard Commendation and Achievement Medals.