Ars Technica: Tech Policy "People to Watch" 2009

Ars Technica just published a who's-who list of rising tech-policy stars that includes four individuals who'll be appearing at our DC Policy Day at National Geographic's Grosvenor Auditorium on February 11:

Michael Copps, Acting Chairman, Federal Communications Commission

Julius Genachowski may be the president's pick to serve as the next chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), but make no mistake that Acting Chairman Michael Copps is fully prepared to hold down the fort until the Chairman is confirmed...

Sascha Meinrath, Research Director, Wireless Future Program, New America Foundation

Before joining New America Foundation in 2007, Sascha Meinrath previously worked as a policy analyst, telecom consultant, and community organizer. The skills he developed in those three different roles undoubtedly have influenced his current work as research director at New America's Wireless Future program where he and Michael Calabrese are striving to reform US telecommunications policy, particularly spectrum access, one challenging step at a time...

Ben Scott, Policy Director, Free Press

As the chief DC lobbyist for Free Press, the advocacy group behind the Save the Internet and Stop Big Media campaigns, Ben Scott keeps a watchful eye on the country's telecom and media giants—and he's ready to react when he disagrees with them...

Gigi Sohn, Co-founder and President, Public Knowledge

A perennial presence on the tech policy scene, Gigi Sohn is a force to be reckoned with. She is the face—and voice—of Public Knowledge, the nonprofit interest group she co-founded in 2001. If there's a policy debate involving consumers' digital rights, you can bet Sohn will be involved to make sure PK's concerns are heard...

Also making the list are several Policy Day and Policy Summit veterans — we'd like to think that can spot stars, too! Head here to see the full roster of speakers at this year's Policy Day. And why not register while you're at it?