Veteran uses DTE Energy Efficiency Academy to help Detroiters

November 18, 2025

After retiring from a 21-year Navy career, DeShawn W. established a Detroit-based business connecting communities with essential services and discovered a significant shortage of certified contractors to help local families improve their homes' energy efficiency. He participated in the DTE Energy Efficiency Academy, a paid training program created in 2023 with Walker-Miller Energy Services that provides hands-on instruction and nationally recognized certifications in energy-related trades.

Who is affected

DeShawn W., Navy veteran and owner of Duke Investments & Associates
Detroit families and homeowners with older, energy-inefficient homes
The 20 participants in DeShawn's Energy Efficiency Academy class
Other Academy graduates and contractors
DTE Energy and Walker-Miller Energy Services (partner organizations)
Eligible households across Metro Detroit seeking weatherization services

What action is being taken

DeShawn is conducting energy and weatherization assessments across Metro Detroit
DeShawn is working with other graduates, contractors, and DTE to bring energy-efficient solutions to Detroit families
The DTE Energy Efficiency Academy is providing paid, hands-on training and helping participants earn nationally recognized certifications

Why it matters

This program addresses a critical infrastructure gap in Detroit where thousands of older homes lack energy efficiency but few certified contractors exist to perform necessary upgrades. The initiative creates a multiplier effect: it provides career pathways in the growing clean energy sector while simultaneously helping low-income families reduce their utility bills, freeing up household income for essential needs like groceries and childcare. By training local contractors like DeShawn, the program builds community capacity to deliver tangible economic relief to families while improving housing quality across Detroit neighborhoods.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle