By Sarah Fuhrey Huber
With nearly two decades of experience in the energy industry, Jessica Laramie continues to find meaning at the intersection of law, land and policy. Joining Steptoe & Johnson PLLC’s
Denver office as of counsel in October, she advises on title, regulatory and policy matters involving permitting, development, reclamation and carbon management. Laramie’s background spans private practice, in-house roles and higher education, where she led Western Colorado University’s energy management program and developed partnerships between academia and industry.
“What has kept me in energy for the last 20 years is the meaningful impact that this field has on our local communities, on our state, on our country and globally,” she said. “For many of us, regardless of how specialized we get, we see that contributions to energy and energy policy—which is so complex, so nuanced and so important—are crucial to human flourishing.”
For Laramie, the nuances and complexities of her field foster not only meaning but also joy. “The problem-solving is always different; no two days are the same,” she said. “It’s fun to be a part of the complexity and the meaningfulness within energy. There are ties from everything from geopolitics to economics to health and safety and security.”
Laramie’s move to Steptoe & Johnson was motivated by “the magnitude and diversity of their projects and clients and their reputation and nationally recognized standards in energy law.” She added, “It’s been amazing to be part of a culture of a group of very knowledgeable, passionate, hardworking folks who are willing to welcome in and help someone build up a practice—and value being here in Colorado and spending time outside and balancing work and family.”
Laramie’s appreciation for the land and residents of Colorado dates back to her days at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law—where she earned her J.D., as well as her master’s in natural resources and environmental law—and has given her a distinct perspective on the state’s future in energy policy.
Drawing on her experience in different energy sectors, Laramie believes that as Colorado navigates energy and industry in the current political climate, seeking points of alignment remains critical. “Most people can agree that energy should be reliable, affordable, accessible and sustainable,” she said. “What that means, how we get there or where we weigh those points against each other may vary, but the more we focus on our common values, the more successful we can be in creating policies and regulations that promote what Coloradans, as consumers and as citizens of our beautiful state, want.”
At Steptoe & Johnson, Laramie drafts title opinions and land and commercial contracts related to energy and natural resources development, with a focus on mineral and land agreements; advises clients on regulatory and policy matters; identifies risks associated with title defects; and recommends curative actions for clients developing natural resources.