The boards of AeA and the Information Technology Association of America approved a merger today creating an approximately $22 million organization with 2,000 members.

AeA President and CEO Christopher Hansen and ITAA President and CEO Phil Bond will share leadership of the new group. Hansen will be CEO focused on running the organization, while Bond will be president and handle public policy, lobbying and communications.

"For all of its impact on everyday life, the technology industry has had insufficient clout in Washington and the state capitols -- until now" said ITAA Chairman Hank Steininger, in a statement.

ITAA's Bond predicted that there would be more consolidation in the technology association sector in an October 25 National Journal story by my colleague Winter Casey.

                                                                                                                   -- Bara Vaida