Joi Harris to Become DTE Energy’s First Black Woman CEO, Signaling a New Era of Power and Purpose in Detroit

July 8, 2025

Joi Harris will make history on September 8 when she becomes the first woman president and CEO of DTE Energy following a unanimous board vote as part of a planned leadership transition. Her remarkable 34-year journey with the company began as a high school engineering co-op, culminating in her current role as president and chief operating officer where she oversees electric and gas operations, customer service, IT, and safety departments. Under Harris's leadership, DTE launched the $1 billion Blue Water Energy Center and achieved a 70% improvement in electric reliability in 2024.

Who is affected

DTE Energy's 2.3 million electric customers in Southeast Michigan and 1.3 million natural gas customers throughout the state
Employees of DTE Energy
Detroit residents, particularly those in predominantly Black neighborhoods affected by outages and environmental concerns
Black youth and students interested in STEM careers
Investors and stakeholders in DTE Energy
Vulnerable residents who rely on energy assistance programs

What action is being taken

Joi Harris is transitioning to become president and CEO of DTE Energy on September 8
DTE is implementing a $1 billion infrastructure strategy
The company is actively modernizing the electric grid, resulting in a 70% year-over-year improvement in electric reliability in 2024
Harris is currently overseeing the utility's electric and gas operations, customer service, IT, and safety departments
Harris is advocating for and supporting mentorship and internship programs targeting underrepresented youth

Why it matters

Harris's appointment represents a historic milestone as she becomes the first woman to lead DTE Energy
Her leadership comes at a transformative time for the energy industry requiring infrastructure modernization
Her rise demonstrates the importance of mentorship and career pathways for Black professionals, especially in STEM fields
Harris brings a community-focused leadership approach to a utility that serves millions across Michigan
Her Detroit roots and community involvement position her to address issues of environmental justice and equitable investment
Her leadership represents a broader cultural shift in corporate America regarding diversity in executive positions

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle