A proud JW “boomerang,” environmental, regulatory, and legislative lawyer Travis Wussow began his career at the firm as an associate in 2008 and returned as a partner in 2024, serving energy clients from the Austin office through complex regulations and public policy. In his second stint, he rebuilt much of his practice around AI tools and workflows and helped colleagues explore how AI could improve client service. That work laid the groundwork for Bell Rock Strategies, where he now serves as CEO and General Counsel, helping large law firms build real AI capability. He also practices regulatory and administrative law through Bell Rock Law, which he founded, and leads the AI Skills Program at the University of Texas School of Law. He looks back on the colleagues who shaped both chapters of his Jackson Walker career, and on the competitive streak that came out at the firm’s pickleball tournaments. Below is a Q&A featuring the JW alumnus:
During your time at JW, what was your practice, and what was the nature of your responsibilities?
I’m a proud JW boomerang. I first joined the firm as an associate in 2008 and returned as a partner in 2024. During both stints, I practiced environmental, regulatory, and legislative law in the Austin office, primarily serving energy clients. My work involved helping clients navigate complex regulations and shape public policy affecting their businesses.
During my second stint, I also became involved in the firm’s AI efforts. I rebuilt much of my own practice around AI tools and workflows and worked with colleagues to explore how those tools could improve client service.
What do you appreciate the most about the time you spent at JW?
The people. I’ve been fortunate to work with colleagues at JW who have been generous with their time, advice, and opportunities. I started my career at the firm, and those relationships continued through the years I spent elsewhere. Returning in 2024 gave me a chance to work alongside longtime friends and build new relationships. I’m grateful for what I learned from them during both chapters. I can’t imagine working at another law firm; JW has—and always had—an incredible team of lawyers who truly care about their clients and each other.
Do you have a favorite JW memory you would like to share?
My favorite memories involve the pickleball tournaments. It’s always fun to see the—shall we say—competitive side of your colleagues.
How are you enjoying your transition to working for yourself? Any advice to those thinking about starting their own company?
I’ve enjoyed helping lawyers and law firms learn to master AI. During my second stint at JW, I rebuilt much of my own practice around AI tools and workflows and worked with colleagues to explore how those tools could improve client service. That experience helped lay the groundwork for Bell Rock Strategies, where we provide AI training and consulting to help law firms build real AI capability.
Our work focuses on helping lawyers apply these tools to the work they do every day, from research and drafting to managing complex matters. We also work with firm leaders to think through what AI means for their businesses and how to help their teams put it to use. Alongside Bell Rock, I lead the AI Skills Program at the University of Texas School of Law, helping law students develop those skills as they prepare to enter practice.