The Confidant
An Energy and Transportation Expert
“With more than 30 years of government relations experience in the energy and transportation sectors, I have seen first-hand the importance of aligning key political and opinion leader support for projects undergoing intense public and regulatory scrutiny.”
Over a career stretching back to the mid‐1970’s, John Etchart has dealt with political, media, and government affairs issues all over the West. While focused on energy and transportation, his experience extends to natural resources, mining and manufacturing, as well as health care and education. Etchart is among the most well‐known consultants in the Pacific Northwest, having served on and chaired the Northwest Power Planning Council for Montana Governor Marc Racicot. John’s reputation also is derived from his years as Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs at Burlington Northern.
John is a former USMC infantry officer (Vietnam), a member of one of Montana's oldest ranching families, and a graduate of Carroll College in Helena. John established the Helena office of Gallatin Public Affairs and continues to advise and assist clients in an "of counsel" role.
Expertise Background
Energy policy Chairman, Tonbridge Power
Top Advisor to former Montana
Media relations Governor Marc Racicot
Chairman, Northwest Power and
Government relations Conservation Council
Vice President of Government
Transportation Affairs, Burlington Northern
Railroad
State Finance Chair for
Bush-Cheney
US Marine Corps Officer
B.A., Carroll College
M.S., Montana State University
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