As Director for Policy, James Willson helps plan and implement NAFO’s legal, regulatory, and federal policy strategies.
Before joining NAFO, James worked at the United States Senate for seven years. He began his Capitol Hill career at the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works before transitioning to the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Serving in the role of Counsel for both Committees, James was the policy lead on forestry, recreation, transportation infrastructure, and environmental issues. He was a key player in the creation and advancement of bipartisan legislation in each issue area.
James was born and raised in Cody, Wyoming—a gateway community located just east of Yellowstone National Park. He graduated from the University of Wyoming with a degree in political science and later earned his law degree from the University of Wyoming College of Law.