Elaine Lan Chao, an American businesswoman and former government official, held key roles in the administrations of George W. Bush and Donald Trump.
She served as the United States Secretary of Labor from 2001 to 2009 and as the United States Secretary of Transportation from 2017 to 2021, making her the first Asian American woman to serve in a presidential cabinet and as secretary of transportation.
Originally from Taipei, Taiwan, Chao moved to the United States at the age of eight. She grew up in Queens, New York, and later earned degrees from Mount Holyoke College and Harvard Business School.
Chao began her career in finance before assuming prominent positions within the Department of Transportation under Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush, including Chair of the Federal Maritime Commission and Deputy Secretary of Transportation.
Additionally, she served as Director of the Peace Corps and president of the United Way of America. Outside of her government roles, Chao has been active on various corporate and nonprofit boards, including her current position with ChargePoint, an electric charger network provider.
She is married to Senator Mitch McConnell and holds an MBA from Harvard Business School.
What Is Elaine Chao Doing Now?
Elaine Chao is currently managing her businesses, including the Foremost Group, a privately held American shipping company, headquartered in New York City founded by her father, James S.C. Chao.
She has worked for financial institutions and served on several corporate and nonprofit boards, including her current position with ChargePoint, an electric charger network provider. Chao’s extensive experience in both the public and private sectors has made her a prominent figure in the business world.