Washington, D.C. (March 28, 2025) – HWG LLP is pleased to announce the addition of Austin Bonner to the firm’s Telecommunications, Issues and Appeals, and Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies Practice Groups. Austin returns to HWG from leadership roles at the White House and Federal Communications Commission (FCC), where she played a key role in shaping federal initiatives on telecommunications, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies. Austin will lead the firm’s Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies practice.
“Austin’s deep understanding of emerging technologies, her experience with artificial intelligence policy, and her ability to navigate complex regulatory challenges make her an invaluable addition to our team,” said John Nakahata, Chair of HWG. “Her strategic approach and policy insight will be a tremendous asset to our clients.”
Austin advises communications and technology companies on public policy strategy, compliance, and appellate litigation matters. She works closely with clients to develop innovative solutions for engaging with policymakers, managing legal risk, and advancing business objectives in the rapidly shifting technology sector.
“We are thrilled to welcome our alum back to the firm,” said Managing Partner, Jennifer Bagg. “Austin’s return reinforces our commitment to offering top-tier legal counsel in the telecommunications and technology space.”
Before returning to private practice, Austin served as Special Assistant to the President for Economic Policy and Deputy U.S. Chief Technology Officer for Policy, where she spearheaded a wide range of White House efforts on technology, telecommunications, and artificial intelligence (AI). That work included service as the inaugural Vice Chair of the Chief AI Officers Council and the Deputy Director of the National AI Initiative Office, aligning AI efforts across the federal government and facilitating transformative AI applications for federal agencies. At the FCC, Austin advised Commissioner Geoffrey Starks on wireline, public safety, and national security issues and served as his Acting Chief of Staff.
Austin received her J.D., magna cum laude, from Georgetown University Law Center and her B.A. with high honors from the University of Texas at Austin. She served for many years as an Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University Law Center.