Episode 26.05 FCC OET Chief Andy Hendrickson with Forum CTO Andy Clegg
In this special episode of Setting the Standard, Andy Hendrickson, Chief of the FCC's Office of Engineering and Technology (OET), discusses how his background in both commercial wireless networks and FCC enforcement informs his approach to spectrum management and wireless innovation with Forum CTO Andy Clegg of Valo Analytica. He emphasizes that while technologies evolve rapidly, engineering principles remain constant, and OET's role is to provide objective technical analysis that enables innovation while ensuring spectrum users can coexist effectively. The conversation highlights OET's work supporting FCC decisions on wireless, satellite, public safety, and emerging technologies. Hendrickson explains how the office studies new technologies such as AI-enabled networks, dynamic spectrum sharing, and direct-to-device satellite communications well before regulatory action may be required. He stresses the importance of data-driven decision making, transparent analysis, and collaboration with industry, academia, and standards organizations. A major focus of the discussion is artificial intelligence and its growing role in wireless communications. Hendrickson views AI as a powerful tool for improving network performance, spectrum utilization, interference detection, cybersecurity, and automation. However, he emphasizes that AI should enhance, not replace, engineering judgment and must remain transparent, verifiable, and grounded in sound science. The interview also explores experimental licensing, spectrum sharing, and satellite-terrestrial integration. Hendrickson notes that the FCC is working to modernize the experimental licensing process and sees direct-to-device satellite connectivity as one of the most promising developments in wireless. Across all these topics, he returns to a central theme: using rigorous engineering and coexistence-based spectrum management to support innovation while protecting existing users.
