Damian Kunko has been working in government relations for over ten years, primarily in the fields of technology, renewable energy, telecommunications, and healthcare. He has extensive experience in working with companies seeking Federal funding for R&D and with organizations seeking to achieve their Federal marketing goals. Prior to joining SMI, he served as the co-founder and CEO of the Rural Broadband Coalition (RBC), a national advocacy organization that lobbied for federal policies and funding for expanded broadband Internet access in rural communities. Mr. Kunko formed RBC after serving as Director of Consulting Services for a healthcare and technology government relations firm. In this position he was primarily responsible for the oversight and development of client activities related to federal marketing and lobbying. Previously, he had served on the staff of a Member of Congress from Washington State. Mr. Kunko holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Washington State University and served six years in the U.S. Marine Corps.