Washington, D.C. – TechNet, the national, bipartisan network of innovation economy CEOs and senior executives, today announced Trent Edwards has returned to the organization as Senior Vice President for Membership and Growth. Edwards was Vice President of Membership and Strategic Partnerships at TechNet from 2019-2022. He most recently served as Vice President of Technology Member Development at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

“We are thrilled to welcome Trent back to TechNet. During his previous time with TechNet, Trent added 42 new members to our organization and helped TechNet and our members navigate the uncertainty of the pandemic. Trent has a great ability to connect with stakeholders and is a proven leader who knows our industry and our membership well. We’re excited to have Trent back on the TechNet team,” said TechNet President and CEO Linda Moore.

Edwards has nearly 20 years of experience in politics and public policy at the federal, state, and local levels. He most recently served as Vice President of Technology Member Development at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where he helped to lead the development and launch of key projects like the Responsible AI Business Leadership Initiative. From 2012 to 2017, he served as the Director of Development for the Congressional Leadership Fund (CLF) and American Action Network (AAN). Under his leadership, the organizations raised $190 million and helped elect more than 50 Members of Congress. Prior to his role at CLF, he was Chief of Staff to Congressman Scott DesJarlais (R-TN), where he helped build and oversee the Congressman’s operations in both Washington, D.C., and Tennessee during his first term. Trent has also held various fundraising roles on political campaigns and committees, including two election cycles leading the Field Finance Department at the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC).

“This is an exciting time to be a part of TechNet. Since I departed, I’ve watched closely as the organization has continued to grow and achieve great things. I look forward to building on that momentum and working with our members on policies ranging from artificial intelligence and privacy to immigration and cybersecurity. I’m excited to be back and look forward to working with the best team in the business,” said Edwards.

Based in Austin, TX, Edwards holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia.