Gov. Ferguson appoints Brian Rybarik as UTC chair

 

Media contact: 360-664-1116 or media@utc.wa.gov

LACEY, Wash. - Gov. Bob Ferguson today announced the appointment of Brian Rybarik to the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC). Rybarik will serve a six-year term as chair, replacing David Danner who retired from the commission in December 2024.

Rybarik has extensive experience in regulatory law, state public utilities commissions, energy development, and regional energy markets. He brings 20 years of leadership and regulatory experience to the commission and has a broad background in the strategic development and implementation of sustainability commitments.

“Washingtonians are impacted every day by the availability and safety of electricity, telecommunications, natural gas, water and transportation,” Ferguson said. “Brian’s decades of regulatory experience will help the commission to protect these vital services and center people’s needs as Washington advances forward on a clean energy transition.”

Rybarik joins the UTC from Microsoft, where he has served as senior director, chief of staff, and energy director. In his most recent role, Rybarik oversaw responsible business practices relating to human rights and the environment. Previously, he did policy work for an energy-focused non-profit and served as deputy general counsel for a utility in the Midwest. Prior to that, Rybarik worked at an energy market and for a utility commission.

"I am excited to welcome Commissioner Rybarik to the UTC," said Jeff Killip, UTC executive director and secretary. "His impressive background in energy policy, coupled with his deep understanding of regulatory processes, will be a tremendous asset to the commission as we navigate a rapidly evolving energy landscape."

Rybarik holds a juris doctorate from the University of Wisconsin Law School, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Rybarik’s appointment is effective March 3, 2025.

View Governor’s Office news releases online at https://governor.wa.gov/news/news-releases.

The UTC regulates the rates and services of investor-owned electric utilities, telecommunications companies, natural gas and water companies, solid waste collection companies, household-goods movers and passenger transportation companies, commercial ferries, pipeline companies, marine pilotage, and a low-level radioactive waste repository. The commission does not regulate the rates of broadband services, cellular, cable, or Internet service.

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