OUR MISSION
Advocating for the role of the region’s gas infrastructure in safely delivering a clean, dependable, and affordable energy future.
OUR VISION
NWGA members serve the people and businesses of the Pacific Northwest with the energy they need to thrive.
NWGA is the regional voice of the PNW gas industry. It articulates a vision that persuasively makes the case for the important long-term role of the gas delivery system in supporting the public policy objective of deep reductions in societal GHG emissions.
NWGA is an assertive advocate. It is the “tip of the spear” in tackling public policy issues. NWGA always acts respectfully in its interactions, even where there are disagreements.
NWGA is a trustworthy partner. It develops strong relationships and speaks to the heart, giving it credibility when it shares the facts.
NWGA is focused. It prioritizes the utilization and optimization of the existing safe, dependable gas delivery infrastructure in the Pacific Northwest.
NWGA is a responsible steward. It identifies, recruits, leverages and amplifies the resources available within and external to the industry value chain.
OUR VALUES
Relational
We value strong relationships. Facilitating networking and creating constructive coalitions are core to what we do. We put our relationships to work on behalf of the industry.
Stewardship
We are judicious with and leverage the time, talent and resources entrusted to us by our members, in order to deliver maximum value for their sustained support of the NWGA. We leverage the work of other organizations.
Integrity
We are trustworthy and a credible source of information. We take responsible balanced positions and are open and willing to acknowledge alternative viewpoints.
Responsive
We are timely and responsive to our members and stakeholders in an evolving context. We are proactive, while staying within the framework directed by our members.
STAFF
Judy Adair
Business and Operations Manager
As the Business and Operations Manager, Judy is a vital part of the NWGA team. She contributes to achieving the association's goals, objectives, and board-approved initiatives, both in the short term and long term, while ensuring the effective and efficient utilization of resources. Judy added to her more than 30 years of experience by earning her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 2021.
Adair enjoys spending time with her family, including four dogs. Judy and her husband, Geff, enjoy outdoor activities, such as fishing, camping, and traveling. Judy also engages in many creative hobbies, like quilting and watercolor painting.
Natasha Jackson
Director of State Affairs
Natasha is the Directors of State Affairs at the Northwest Gas Association, overseeing the association's advocacy and coalition-building efforts in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and British Columbia. With expertise in legislative and regulatory affairs, communications, and political campaigns, she brings a wealth of experience and insight to her role.
Natasha began her career in public policy at the Oregon State Legislature in 2019, where her rapid progression paved the way for her transition to the Northwest Gas Association in 2021. Natasha has been instrumental in shaping the association's strategic initiatives and policy priorities.
Natasha holds a degree in political science from Portland State University, with a focus on international development and global studies, underpinning her comprehensive understanding of different policy landscapes.
Kelly Fukai
Chief Executive Officer
Kelly brings over 25 years of experience in government and public affairs, economic development, and strategic management. As the CEO of the Northwest Gas Association, she is a leading expert on policy formation and government and community relations. She previously held positions at Avista, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, and the Spokane International Airport. Kelly holds both a bachelor's and a master's degree from Gonzaga University.
Dan Kirschner
Chief Executive Officer
Retiring December 2025
Dan Kirschner has been the CEO of the Northwest Gas Association (NWGA) since 2002. An expert on natural gas matters in the Pacific Northwest, he works to foster understanding among opinion leaders, and informed decision-making by governing officials on issues related to the region’s natural gas delivery system.
Kirschner is a Northwest native. He adds an MBA to his policy and public affairs experience giving him an informed perspective on the intersection of public policy and business imperatives. Dan and his wife Kelly are approaching forty years together. They enjoy spending time with their kids and grandchildren, traveling together, and their home.
THE BOARD
