Mike Williams is a senior fellow at American Progress, where his work focuses on the nexus between creating and retaining high-quality, union jobs and fighting the climate crisis. Prior to joining American Progress, Williams helped build and lead the BlueGreen Alliance (BGA), serving in many roles over 12 years, most recently as the deputy director. His primary work was to oversee partnership and coalition engagement and advise on and implement the strategic direction of the organization. Williams also helped oversee BGA’s policy and advocacy operations, with a distinct focus on climate change, energy, manufacturing, and labor policy. He was point for BGA at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Changenegotiations from Copenhagen through Paris, and he spearheaded innovative programs—such as BGA’s successful Buy Clean effort.
Earlier in his career, Williams worked Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), handling energy, environmental, and transportation issues. While there, he helped author the Climate MATTERS Act, among the most progressive pieces of climate change legislation at that time. Williams also worked for the National Wildlife Federation, helping launch their environmental education advocacy campaign and assisting with policy and campaigns on energy policy and the Water Resources Development Act.
Williams graduated from George Washington University with a master’s in public policy, concentrating in environmental policy. He received his bachelor’s degree from Boston University, where he studied philosophy and music. He lives in Maine with his wife (Tara), two kids (Marilyn and John), dog, cat, and way too much camping gear.