Earlier this month Tom Gilman, Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Secretary for Administration conducted the ceremonial swearing-in for the new Commerce Deputy Assistant Secretary for Administration, Wynn Coggins. Coggins is no stranger to the U.S. Department of Commerce family. In her 29 years of public service, she rose through the ranks at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Starting as an entry-level Patent Examiner, she worked diligently to obtain an appointment into the Senior Executive Service (SES), becoming a Group Director in the electrical and mechanical technologies. Most recently Coggins served as the Chief of Staff and principal advisor to Laura Peter, the Deputy Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Deputy Director at the USPTO. Coggins also served as the USPTO Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for several years.

She credits integrity and mentorships as the cornerstones of her success. It’s important to “lead with integrity, take smart risks, be kind, and champion others,” said Wynn Coggins. “Find a mentor that doesn’t act, think, or make decisions like you. It will push you to consider different perspectives, broaden your vision, and make you a better leader.”

Stepping into her new role, Coggins is focused on the future. She hopes to help the public gain a better understanding of the full scope of the department’s mission. Coggins added, “The work we do here makes such a tremendous impact on how all of us live our lives every day. The employees here have been so welcoming and are so dedicated, I can’t imagine a better place to be.”

Coggins’ goal is to help others reach their goals, make a positive change, and be a good steward for the Department of Commerce. Learn more about Deputy Assistant Secretary for Administration Wynn Coggins.