DTE Energy made history last month by naming Joi Harris as its new CEO. She becomes the first woman and first African American to lead the major utility company. Harris will officially start her new role on September 8, 2025.
The groundbreaking appointment marks a significant milestone for diversity in corporate leadership. Moreover, it represents years of strategic succession planning by DTE Energy’s board. Harris currently serves as the company’s chief operating officer and brings decades of experience to her new position.
Historic Leadership Transition Signals New Era for DTE Energy
Jerry Norcia, the current CEO, will transition to executive board chairman when Harris takes over. This carefully planned succession ensures continuity while ushering in fresh leadership. The transition reflects DTE Energy’s commitment to promoting talent from within its ranks.
“I am honored to take on this role at such a pivotal moment for our company and industry,” Harris stated. She emphasized the company’s transformation period and her commitment to modernizing infrastructure. Furthermore, Harris expressed gratitude for Norcia’s mentorship throughout her career journey.
Mark Murray, the board’s lead independent director, praised the appointment as the culmination of multi-year planning. He highlighted the board’s confidence in Harris’s ability to lead with focus and vision. Additionally, Murray thanked Norcia for his dedicated leadership and outstanding performance.
From High School Co-op to CEO: Joi Harris’s Remarkable Career Journey
Harris’s story with DTE Energy began during her high school years as an engineering co-op student. This early exposure to the utility industry sparked a lifelong career. In 1991, she joined the company as a full-time employee and never looked back.
Over three decades, Harris worked across multiple departments and gained comprehensive industry experience. She handled distribution field operations, system control, and transmission operations with distinction. Throughout her tenure, Harris consistently helped modernize critical infrastructure while inspiring team members.
Her leadership skills became evident as she advanced through various roles within the organization. Harris demonstrated exceptional ability to manage complex projects and drive operational excellence. Consequently, she earned recognition as a rising star in the utility industry.
Strategic Leadership in Michigan’s Energy Transformation
As chief operating officer, Harris oversees DTE Energy’s electric and gas utilities serving millions of customers. She manages customer service, information technology, and other critical departments with expertise. Her leadership extends to 2.3 million electric customers in Southeastern Michigan and 1.3 million gas customers statewide.
Harris spearheaded the construction of several major renewable energy projects across Michigan. She also led the development of the $1 billion Blue Water Energy combined cycle gas plant. This facility came online in 2022 in St. Clair County, representing a major infrastructure achievement.
Her strategic vision focuses on building energy systems for future generations. Harris recognizes the industry’s transformation toward cleaner, more sustainable energy sources. Therefore, she prioritizes modernizing infrastructure while maintaining reliable service for customers.
Educational Excellence and Professional Recognition Shape Industry Leader
Harris earned her bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from Wayne State University. She later completed a master’s degree in business administration from the same institution. These educational foundations provided the technical and business skills necessary for her successful career.
Her achievements have earned recognition from various professional organizations and community groups. Harris received the Maverick Award from Energetic Women, honoring top women in operations and engineering. Additionally, the Michigan Chronicle named her Woman of the Year in their Women of Excellence program.
Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Harris actively serves on several important boards and organizations. She holds the vice president position on the Detroit Area Pre-College Engineering Program board. Furthermore, she serves on multiple other boards, including Wayne State University’s College of Engineering Board of Visitors.
Breaking Barriers While Building Michigan’s Energy Future
Harris’s appointment represents more than just a corporate leadership change. It symbolizes progress in diversifying executive ranks within the traditionally male-dominated utility industry. Her success story inspires other women and minorities pursuing careers in engineering and energy.
The new CEO faces significant challenges as the energy sector undergoes rapid transformation. She must balance traditional utility operations with emerging technologies and changing customer expectations. However, Harris’s extensive experience positions her well to navigate these complex challenges.
Her leadership comes at a crucial time when Michigan needs reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions. Harris understands the importance of maintaining grid reliability while transitioning to cleaner energy sources. Consequently, she’s committed to executing DTE Energy’s strategy with urgency and precision.
