Morris (Mo) McGowan
Assistant Administrator for Security Operations
Mo McGowan currently serves as TSA’s assistant administrator for Security Operations, providing executive management of daily field operations for a workforce of approximately 47,000 employees.
His responsibilities include oversight of screening operations, compliance functions, budget/financial requirements, program planning, operational security for all transportation modes, and the development of strategic plans for the future operational role of TSA.
McGowan began his career at TSA on February 19, 2002, when he accepted a position as special assistant to the associate under secretary for aviation operations. He has served TSA in a number of capacities, both at headquarters and in the field, including tenure as deputy assistant administrator for security operations, general manager for cargo security at TSA headquarters, director for airside security, assistant federal security director at Dallas Love Field, and deputy federal security director at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.
McGowan was living in the southern mountains of New Mexico when he answered the call to duty following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Prior to retirement he was employed by MCI as manager of the eastern region for the Systems Integrity Group, which was responsible for all security functions within MCI.
Before joining MCI in 1994, McGowan served for 25 years as a police officer for the City of Richardson, Texas, working his way through the promotional ranks and serving in every division as an officer and supervisor, ultimately reaching the rank of captain and commanding the Criminal Investigation Bureau.
McGowan has been recognized as a “Plank Holder” at TSA, which honors those individuals considered to be founders of the new federal agency. Most recently, he was the recipient of the 2006 TSA Leadership Award.
