The Regional Water Authority (RWA) is pleased to announce that Ryan Ojakian has joined as Legislative and Regulatory Affairs Program Manager.
Ojakian brings more than a decade of experience working on a wide range of complex issues in the California legislature, most recently as senior consultant for the Assembly Committee on Water, Parks and Wildlife. There, he worked on water policy issues, including long-term urban water use efficiency legislation signed into law in May.
“Ryan brings exceptional legislative experience, the ability to craft sensible policy approaches and build coalitions to achieve results,” said RWA Executive Director John Woodling. “He is an outstanding addition to our team and will bring great value to RWA’s members.”
RWA represents nearly two dozen water providers serving 2 million people in Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado, Yolo and Sutter counties.
In addition to working for the Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee, Ojakian has also served as legislative director for Assemblymember Marc Levine (D-San Rafael) and legislative aide for former California State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto).
“How water is managed in California has a direct impact on our economic and environmental vibrancy as a state and community,” Ojakian said. “I look forward to working with RWA members to advocate for the Sacramento region’s interests and build on the success of RWA’s advocacy efforts.”
In his new position, Ojakian will work closely with RWA’s member agencies and contract lobbyist to identify legislative and regulatory priorities, develop strategies and coalitions, track legislation and advocate on behalf of RWA and Sacramento-area water providers and their customers.
Ojakian holds a master’s degree in economics from San Diego State University and a bachelor’s degree in animal physiology and neurosciences from the University of California at San Diego.
