Opening Reception Speakers

Beau Perschbacher is a Senior Policy Advisor to Washington Governor Bob Ferguson, where he leads the Governor's work on technology policy, artificial intelligence, government efficiency, and economic competitiveness. With more than 17 years of public policy experience, Beau develops and implements initiatives that position Washington as a national leader in innovation.
 

Beau was the principal architect of Washington's landmark AI chatbot legislation (House Bill 2225), one of the nation's most comprehensive laws protecting consumers—particularly children—in AI-powered interactions. He also authored the Executive Order establishing the Governor's Data Center Workgroup and led the statewide effort, bringing together industry, utilities, labor, local governments, environmental organizations, and other stakeholders to develop recommendations for supporting the growth of AI infrastructure while ensuring reliable energy and sustainable development. In addition, Beau leads many of the Governor's government efficiency initiatives, including streamlining permitting and licensing processes across state government.
 

Beyond technology policy, Beau manages the Governor's Strategic Reserve Fund, helping secure billions of dollars in private investment and thousands of jobs across sectors including quantum computing, the space economy, advanced manufacturing, and other emerging industries. Prior to joining the Governor's Office, he served as Legislative and Policy Director for the Washington State Department of Licensing and as a Senior Tax Policy Analyst for the Washington State Department of Revenue. He holds an MBA in Finance from Washington State University and a bachelor's degree in Political Science from Pacific Lutheran University.