The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has appointed Dr. Matthew Lankenau as Director of the Office of Intelligence, Security, and Emergency Response, effective September 21, 2025. The office develops, coordinates, and executes security and preparedness strategies that balance transportation security requirements with the safety, mobility, and economic needs of the nation.
Lankenau brings more than two decades of federal law enforcement and national security experience to the role. He served 22 years with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), beginning as a Special Agent in 2003 and most recently chairing the DEA’s Board of Professional Conduct in Human Resources from 2022 to 2025.
Before joining federal service, Lankenau served five years in the U.S. Marine Corps, giving him extensive experience in both military and law enforcement operations.
As Director at DOT, he will oversee intelligence integration, transportation security planning, and emergency response coordination, ensuring the Department is prepared to meet evolving national security challenges.
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