Cai Steger
Director of Policy ResearchBringing nearly two decades of experience in climate and clean energy, Cai is a seasoned leader and researcher serving as Director of Policy Research at BW Research Partnership. At BW, Cai has spent nearly three years overseeing diverse research projects and leading business development strategies. His expertise spans workforce and economic research, clean energy policy, and equity and environmental justice. He is known by clients for his ability to communicate complex ideas effectively and for his innovative approach to problem-solving.
Cai has managed over 20 significant projects at BW, including landmark studies such as New Jersey’s Council on the Green Economy jobs study, which developed a statewide strategy for the state’s green economy. His leadership in a clean energy apprenticeship study utilized mixed methods research to explore the clean energy sector’s response to an influx of apprenticeships. Additionally, his work on creating opportunities for MWBEs in the clean energy sector and the first-ever comprehensive analysis of community benefits plans showcase his ability to address complex challenges and provide actionable insights. In previous roles, Cai has contributed to significant energy studies with the National Academy of Sciences and the Department of Energy, focusing on biofuels and renewable energy. He has conducted hundreds of interviews with industry stakeholders and led numerous focus groups, emphasizing his commitment to understanding and addressing community perspectives and needs.
Renowned by his team for his leadership and project management skills, Cai excels in developing strategic plans, implementing initiatives, and spearheading projects effectively. He is well-versed in collective impact approaches and possesses deep policy expertise in the climate and clean energy space. His passion lies in ensuring that clean energy deployment results in high-quality, accessible jobs and sustainable economic growth for all regions. His open-mindedness and thoughtful research approaches, combined with his strong commitment to teamwork and collaboration, make him a valuable asset to the BW team and a driving force in advancing clean energy and workforce equity. He lives in Montclair New Jersey with his wife, two daughters, two cats, and a dog, and holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of California Santa Barbara and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Columbia University.