As the National Telecommunications Information Administration changes leadership from the man who is credited with defining the "Digital Divide" -- former head Larry Irving -- the New York Times profiled the future of the agency under new chief Gregory Rohde, who is charged with the task of closing the gap between those who have access to information technology, and those who don't.
Former Senate staffer Rohde in November replaced Irving, who ran the agency for seven years. The two, according to the article, come from different backgrounds -- Irving from the action of New York City and Rohde from the rural setting of North Dakota.
The article describes Rohde as a more conservative figure who will be more comfortable working outside the public spotlight -- where the more outgoing Irving often found himself.
Both men, however, have a personal interest in bridging the problems brought on by the digital divide. As Irving spent his years calling attention to the problem, Rohde plans to use resources from the public and private sectors to find solutions.
Rohde says the Clinton administration -- in its final year -- wants to let the technology marketplace lead with little regulation.
"But the marketplace will only go so far," he says in the Times article. "That's where we need to focus, making sure all segments of society keep up."
Rohde also plans to spend more time on the coming reforms the FCC will make to the Universal Service Program, which assures rural residents access to affordable telecommunications services, the article reports.
"Greg is very bright, and he knows the process well," Irving told the Times about his friend, who was senior aide to Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-ND, for ten years. The Times also states that Rohde fought to support Irving's programs at NTIA.
"He has been doing this for about a decade, and will certainly ensure that NTIA is well managed and keeps a clear focus on the president and vice president's top priorities," Irving adds.
Rohde is guaranteed the NTIA position only through the final year of the Clinton administration.
Full text of the article is currently found at:
http://www.nytimes.com/library/tech/99/12/cyber/
capital/21capital.html
