Director of Government Relations, IEEE-USA

Erik Heilman joined IEEE-USA in June 2023 bringing extensive knowledge of the legislative and political process developed during over twenty years in both the legislative and executive branches of the U.S. federal government, and in representing business interests in various advocacy and lobbying functions.

In his capacity as IEEE-USA’s Director of Government Relations, Erik leads a team of legislative and policy professionals who help shape American technology policy for the benefit of IEEE members, the technology professions, and the broader American public.

Erik previously worked for the Celanese Corporation, Honeywell International and the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) where he promoted federal policy positions on issues ranging from tax and international trade to energy and sustainability.

Before entering the private sector, Erik held senior level positions in the U.S. federal government, first as Director of Government and Public Affairs for the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), and then as Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Congressional Affairs in the Executive Office of the President.

Erik’s career began on Capitol Hill where for a decade he served in legislative staff positions advising and managing policy issues for U.S. Representatives and U.S. Senators.

Erik holds an M.Sc. from the London School of Economics and Political Science and a B.A. from the University of Colorado at Boulder. He resides in Arlington, VA with his wife Katie and their three children.