About The Research Center
The CCIA Research Center is the industry’s trusted source for data and analytics on the connected economy. The Research Center conducts a program of statistical and economic research to inform policymakers, industry, and the public with empirical data, industry surveys, and studies on critical issues affecting the connected economy.
Launched in 2022, the Research Center combines decades of economic expertise and empirical research experience with trusted partners in data and analytics to bring all connected economy stakeholders accurate and up-to-date information on the issues that matter most. By providing industry, consumers, and policymakers with empirical evidence they can trust, the Research Center aims to contribute to a culture of sound, data-based economic policy and an informed public.
The Research Center is led by Trevor Wagener, former Deputy Chief Economist of the U.S. Department of State, with support from Kara Mazachek and Sara Young. The Center works with leading third party economists and researchers to provide empirical insights on the connected economy and related public policy issues.
Trevor Wagener
Director of the Research Center & Chief Economist
Trevor Wagener is the Director of the Research Center & Chief Economist for the Computer & Communications Industry Association, where he leads CCIA’s research agenda, conducts and oversees economic and policy research, and educates policy makers and the public about relevant empirical findings.
Before joining CCIA in February 2021, Mr. Wagener served since 2019 as Deputy Chief Economist at the U.S. Department of State, where he directed economic research and analysis and advised senior U.S. policy makers on global economic and regulatory issues. From 2013 to 2019, he managed economic consulting engagements at NERA Economic Consulting, where he conducted cost-benefit analysis of regulatory rulemakings and provided expert consulting services in both strategic advisory matters and litigation and dispute matters. Prior to joining NERA, Mr. Wagener served as an investment analyst, derivatives trader, and quantitative modeler at DC Energy, a proprietary trading firm.
Mr. Wagener obtained his master’s degree in Applied Economics from Johns Hopkins University and received his bachelor’s degree in Ethics, Politics, and Economics from Yale University.
Kara Mazachek
Research Policy Manager
Kara Mazachek is the Research Manager at CCIA. Prior to joining CCIA, she worked as an Economic Research Analyst at the International Trade Administration and an Associate at Hotwire Global Communications. She previously interned at the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. Kara received her MA in Applied Economics from George Washington University, and her BA in Media and Economics from Washburn University.
Sara Young
Communications Manager
Sara Young is the Communications Manager for the Computer and Communications Industry Association, where she works to convey the association’s views and research to policymakers, the public, and other key stakeholders. She develops press materials and communications plans around CCIA-commissioned research studies and manages communications around special projects for CCIA members.
Prior to joining CCIA, Sara worked for the Internet Society, where she coordinated projects to expand Internet access in underserved communities and advocated for sound telecommunications policy.
She received her bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Pennsylvania.