Will Brieger has always had a passion for public service. Growing up, he listened to his parents discuss politics and social justice. They actively protested against the Vietnam War, and their dinner table was filled with conversations about current events. This environment sparked Will’s own commitment to public service.
“It all starts with family,” he notes. His grandmothers volunteered for democracy and environmental causes, while his mother served in the U.S. Navy. Those values of service ran deep in his family, urging him to make meaningful contributions to society.
Inspired by the lawyers of the civil rights movement, Will chose a path in law to fight injustice. After earning degrees from Amherst College and UC Davis School of Law, he focused on environmental law. Working as a prosecutor in California, he took on significant cases related to air quality and climate change, aiming to protect the health of Californians and the state’s natural beauty.
His dedication caught the attention of the California Attorney General, who sent him to the Capitol to help pass civil rights and environmental legislation. He played a vital role in the nation’s first climate change lawsuit, a landmark case that shifted his focus entirely. “Once I saw how urgent the climate issue was, I knew this was my path,” he said. “We have the solutions; now we just need the policies to implement them.”
Brieger’s recent work centers on bridging the gap between innovation and policy. Recent statistics show that investment in climate initiatives has surged, with global spending on renewable energy expected to reach $2 trillion by 2025. This growth illustrates that the tools for climate action are ready; what’s needed now is legal and economic infrastructure to make them effective.
As he transitioned from prosecution to policy advocacy, Will aimed to create a supportive environment for green businesses and innovative policymakers. He now runs an advocacy firm committed to simplifying the legislative process, helping businesses connect with governmental support. He thrives on building relationships, translating complex topics into actionable strategies.
“It’s about creating pathways for progress,” he says, emphasizing that his values of integrity and service guide his work. These principles shaped his career and reflect the lessons learned from his family. He believes that true success comes from helping others succeed.
Beyond his professional life, Brieger dedicates his time to community service. For over a decade, he’s volunteered with the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program, working directly with foster youth to navigate the child welfare system. This role embodies his commitment to making a significant impact on individual lives without seeking recognition.
Brieger’s belief in service extends to education and youth sports, highlighting the importance of leaving the world better than he found it. He sees the urgency in addressing climate challenges and believes the solutions are within our reach. As he puts it, “The technology exists; we just need to act. It’s about getting everyone on board to make it happen.”
His journey shows how deeply personal values can shape a professional path. By connecting with others who share a vision for a sustainable future, Will Brieger continues to make an indelible mark on California’s environmental landscape. He exemplifies how dedicated service can lead to meaningful change, inspiring others to take action for a better world.
