John-Michael Cortez is a catalyst for equitable access to fast, reliable, fairly priced, and open internet service. As Google Fiber’s Government and Community Affairs Manager in Texas, he collaborates with communities to ensure everyone can harness digital resources to fully participate in our society, democracy, and economy. John-Michael also lectures at The University of Texas at Austin School of Architecture’s Community and Regional Planning program. Prior to his role at Google Fiber, John-Michael served as Chief of Staff and Special Assistant to the Mayor of Austin, Texas. John-Michael advised Mayor Adler on Austin’s most challenging issues, including regional and urban planning, transportation, workforce development, affordable housing, and where to find the city’s best breakfast tacos and BBQ.