Patti Poppe

Patti Poppe is a renowned American business executive, currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of PG&E Corporation, a position she has held since January 2021. Prior to joining PG&E Corporation, Poppe was the President and Chief Executive Officer of CMS Energy and its principal subsidiary, Consumers Energy, from 2016 to 2020. Her leadership experience spans over two decades, with notable roles at DTE Energy and General Motors. Poppe's expertise in the energy sector has been recognized by various organizations, including the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and the Energy Department.

● Early Life and Education

Patti Poppe was born in Plymouth, Michigan, and grew up in a family that valued education and community service. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Nuclear Engineering from McMaster University and later received a Master of Business Administration degree from Carnegie Mellon University. Poppe's academic background and early interests in STEM fields led her to pursue a career in the energy industry, with initial roles at Dow Chemical and General Motors. Her experience working with Ford Motor Company and DTE Energy further solidified her expertise in the field. Poppe has also been involved with various organizations, including the University of Michigan and the Michigan State University.

● Career

Patti Poppe's career in the energy sector began with roles at DTE Energy and General Motors, where she gained experience in nuclear power and energy management. She later joined CMS Energy as a senior executive, overseeing the company's electric utility and natural gas operations. Poppe's leadership at CMS Energy was marked by a focus on renewable energy and sustainability, with initiatives such as the Green Generation program and partnerships with organizations like the Nature Conservancy and the World Wildlife Fund. Her work has also been recognized by the American Wind Energy Association and the Solar Energy Industries Association. Poppe has been a vocal advocate for energy policy and climate change mitigation, engaging with policymakers and industry leaders at events like the United Nations Climate Change Conference and the World Economic Forum.

● PG&E Leadership

As the CEO of PG&E Corporation, Patti Poppe has overseen the company's efforts to address wildfire mitigation and grid resilience, working closely with stakeholders like the California Public Utilities Commission and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Her leadership has also focused on renewable energy integration and electric vehicle adoption, with partnerships with companies like Tesla, Inc. and Volkswagen Group. Poppe has engaged with organizations like the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners and the Edison Electric Institute to advance the company's goals. Her experience working with California Governor Gavin Newsom and the California State Legislature has been instrumental in shaping the company's response to climate change and energy policy.

● Awards and Recognition

Patti Poppe has received numerous awards and recognition for her leadership and contributions to the energy industry, including the Carnegie Mellon University's Distinguished Alumni Award and the University of Michigan's Distinguished Alumni Award. She has been recognized by organizations like the National Association of Female Executives and the Fortune (magazine) as one of the most powerful women in business. Poppe has also been honored by the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame and the Junior Achievement U.S.A.. Her work has been featured in publications like the Wall Street Journal and the Forbes.

● Personal Life

Patti Poppe is a native of Michigan and currently resides in San Francisco, California. She is married and has two children, and is an avid supporter of organizations like the United Way and the American Red Cross. Poppe has also been involved with the Detroit Institute of Arts and the San Francisco Symphony. Her interests include hiking and traveling, and she has visited countries like China and India for business and leisure. Poppe has also been involved with the World Economic Forum and the Bilderberg Group, and has spoken at events like the TED Conference and the Clinton Global Initiative.