Christopher M. Patterson was appointed Vice President, State and Local Government Relations by Pacific Gas and Electric Company in May 2021.
In his role, Patterson is responsible for PG&E’s legislative agenda and leading advocacy efforts in the state’s capital. He is also responsible for local government affairs, policy and advocacy relating to key state regulatory agencies, including the California Energy Commission, State Lands Commission, Department of Water Resources, and California Air Resources Board.
Patterson joined PG&E in 2018 and has held roles of increasing responsibility within state government relations.
Before PG&E, Patterson served as the State Political Director for the California State Council of the International Association of Fire Fighters, AFL-CIO (California Professional Firefighters), which represents over 30,000 front-line emergency responders. In that capacity, Patterson directed the union’s political strategies and resources at the federal, state and local levels, managed its political action committee, independent expenditure and ballot measure programs, and helped oversee its state legislative program.
Patterson has established a reputation for his ability to manage crisis situations, create and lead strategic legislative and political programs, and drive diverse state coalitions toward common policy and political goals and success. In 2013, his proven leadership and collaborative approach were instrumental in bringing together key state business, labor and other stakeholders to form one of the most effective statewide coalitions in Sacramento – Building and Protecting a Strong California. Today this group, known as the California Business and Labor Alliance, successfully advocates for policies enhancing the business climate, supporting worker issues, and promoting a robust state economy. Patterson continues to serve as the committee’s chair.
Outside of PG&E, Patterson is a member of the Board of Directors for CORO Northern California, which is responsible for helping to shape future generations of policy leaders. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the California Building Industry Association and the California Foundation on the Environment and the Economy, and as a National Advisory Board Member of UC Berkeley’s Institute for Governmental Services.
Patterson is a graduate of the University of California, Davis.
