Meet Jamie, our deputy director of programs and policy
Jamie Pang has worked for over 15 years in the nonprofit natural resources sector with an emphasis in environmental law and policy. She’s worked to address issues such as species conservation, labor protections, environmental justice and toxics regulations, with a focus on crafting policies that create meaningful change for frontline communities. She holds a J.D. from Lewis and Clark Law School.
Prior to joining OJTA, Jamie was the senior environmental health program director at Oregon Environmental Council, where she developed the Oregon Toxic Free Cosmetics Act and fought for strong heat and smoke rules for workers. She has also served on the board of directors at 350PDX and challenged utility rate increases in San Diego, California. As a first-generation Asian American, Jamie’s work reflects a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of social issues and a drive to create systems that are both inclusive and just.
In her spare time, Jamie enjoys outdoor water sports, martial arts, hanging out with her dog and husband, and reality TV shows.
Describe your role at Oregon Just Transition Alliance and why you do this kind of work.
As the deputy director of programs and policy, my role is to help steer our policy decisions in key areas like climate, energy, housing, and resilience. I work closely with our program team to develop and implement strategies that not only address immediate challenges but also create long-term solutions. A big part of my job is ensuring that our policies are equitable and inclusive for frontline communities who are most impacted by climate change and to be air traffic control for the team's workload.
I do this work because I believe in the power of policy and law to transform lives and create a more just and equitable society. Frontline communities face some of the greatest challenges, yet their voices are least represented in decision-making processes. My goal is to change that by centering their needs and experiences in the policies we craft, especially in diverse coalition spaces and environmental spaces. I’m driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to resources and opportunities that allow them to thrive.
What are some ways you live a Just Transition?
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to understand the importance of practicing what I preach and truly living out a Just Transition. I strive to maintain a small footprint by only buying what I need, challenging corporate profits, and treating others with care and respect.
As a member of OJTA’s leadership team, I work to find the balance between efficiency and effectiveness while also prioritizing wellness, balance, and inclusive employment principles. More than anything, I want to open doors for people who have been shut out of fields like environmental law and advocacy, making sure they feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to lead.
Jamie, what makes you you?
I’d say I’m a mix of pragmatism and optimism. I take a realistic, practical approach to problem-solving but always hold onto a sense of hope.
I also have a huge love for animals of all kinds! Over the years, I’ve rescued six pet rats, fostered a chinchilla, and plan to keep rescuing more. Fun fact: In 2006, I jumped off the second-highest bungee in the world at the time, in Queenstown, New Zealand. Since then, even taller ones have been built, but there’s no way I’d do those now.
