Chris Wright: a Colorado leader ready to energize America’s future

Affordable and reliable energy is the backbone of our economy. It powers hospitals, fuels innovation in technology, drives manufacturing, and keeps goods and people moving via transportation. It touches every aspect of our lives, making products and services affordable and accessible. For the families and communities most in need, affordable energy is not just an economic issue — it’s a lifeline. Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy and Colorado native, has spent his career advancing energy solutions that benefit everyone, and now, as the nominee for U.S. energy secretary, he has the opportunity to bring this vision to the national stage.

Wright is a homegrown talent who grew up in Denver, excelled in his studies and landed a spot at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), earning a BS in mechanical engineering and pursuing graduate work in electrical engineering at both MIT and UC Berkeley. He left school to become an entrepreneur and innovator, starting multiple companies with his most recent, Liberty Energy, employing over a thousand Coloradans.

Wright’s leadership extends beyond his role in the shale revolution, where his work helped transform the U.S. into an energy exporter. He is also a staunch advocate for diverse energy sources, including nuclear, geothermal and renewables. His company has driven innovation to reduce environmental impacts while improving efficiency, exemplifying how industry and sustainability can go hand in hand.

Beyond his professional achievements, Wright has demonstrated a deep commitment to people over politics, particularly those most affected by energy costs. High energy prices disproportionately impact low-income families both in the United States and globally. Wright has consistently advocated for policies that prioritize affordability and reliability, ensuring that energy access lifts up those who need it most.

Through the Bettering Human Lives Foundation, Wright has focused on transformative global initiatives, such as providing clean cookstoves to communities in Africa where women and girls spend hours collecting fuel for cooking. These efforts not only improve health outcomes but also empower women with more time for education and economic opportunities. Liberty Energy has pledged $1 million annually to scale this mission, exemplifying Wright’s vision that energy is a critical ingredient for human progress.

Chris Wright’s nomination as energy secretary represents an exciting opportunity for America to modernize its energy strategy. By leveraging his deep expertise, passion for improving lives and commitment to innovation, Wright is poised to bring a fresh perspective to one of the most critical roles in our government.

As Wright steps onto the national stage, his balanced approach to energy policy provides an opportunity to transcend partisan debates. His focus on collaboration and innovation can guide the nation toward an energy future that prioritizes affordability, environmental stewardship and economic growth.

Debbie Brown serves as president of the Colorado Business Roundtable, a public policy organization of executives from some of the state’s largest employers working to strengthen the state’s economic vitality.