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U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has named Vinn White as the new deputy administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), taking over from Robin Hutcheson, who stepped down as FMCSA administrator in January.

Since Hutcheson’s departure, Sue Lawless, FMCSA’s chief safety officer and a long-time federal employee, has been the acting administrator. She has held the position temporarily until a political appointee could be assigned.

“It is an honor to take on this role, and I thank Secretary Buttigieg for his trust and confidence in my ability to lead the important work of FMCSA,” White stated on Tuesday. “Our agency is focused on enhancing safety for all roadway users, and I am committed to working with safety partners across the commercial motor vehicle industry to get this work done.”

In addition to his new role, White is also serving as the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) acting chief artificial intelligence officer. In this capacity, he is responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of AI technologies in alignment with the administration’s policies and priorities.

Before joining FMCSA, White played a key role in coordinating DOT’s efforts on new transportation technologies. This included policies related to automated driving systems, drones, and advanced air mobility systems. He was also instrumental in launching the department’s Transforming Transportation Advisory Committee.

In 2016, White served as DOT’s acting assistant secretary of transportation for policy and deputy assistant secretary.

Beyond his federal service, White worked as a senior adviser to New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. During this time, he focused on transportation and mobility policy, collaborating closely with the New Jersey Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Commission, NJ Transit, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to shape state strategies and approaches.