Commissioner Thomas is a leader in expanding broadband at the state and local levels
Wake County Commissioner Shinica Thomas is once again serving as Chair of the Telecommunications & Technology Policy Steering Committee for the National Association of Counties. NACo President J.D. Clark appointed her to the role this month, marking the second time she’s held this esteemed position.
“It’s an honor to be reappointed to lead NACo’s Telecommunications & Technology Committee, especially at a time when counties are navigating rapid advancements in AI, broadband infrastructure and digital equity,” said Commissioner Thomas. “I’m proud to bring Wake County’s perspective to the national conversation and look forward to working with my peers across the country to ensure all communities have the tools they need to connect, grow and thrive.”
Wise County, Texas Judge J.D. Clark issued leadership appointments shortly after being sworn in as NACo’s president on July 14, at the conclusion of NACo’s annual conference, the nation’s largest convening of county leaders.
Commissioner Thomas has represented Wake County’s District 6 since 2020 and served as Board Chair from 2022 to 2024. She has played a key role in state and national leadership, contributing to the NCACC’s broadband and data fluency task force, co-chairing an initiative on opioid settlement funding and is currently leading the 2024–2025 Legislative Goals Committee. In 2024, she received the M.H. “Jack” Brock Outstanding County Commissioner Award. She also serves on a National Association of Counties work group focused on generative AI in local government.
The Telecommunications & Technology Policy Steering Committee addresses issues such as the county’s role as a regulator, service provider and consumer; cable services; information technology; e-governance; and GIS data collection and utilization.
