DTE Energy in Detroit today announced Renee Tomina, senior vice president of its project management office, will become president and chief operating officer of DTE Gas, effective June 29.
She succeeds Robert Richard, who is retiring after a 40-year career, including 23 years at DTE.
In her new role, Tomina will lead DTE’s natural gas utility, which serves 1.4 million homes and businesses across Michigan. She is expected to guide the DTE Gas team as it continues to update and replace more than 4,000 miles of natural gas pipeline and infrastructure throughout the state.
“Renee is a proven leader with deep operational experience and a strong track record of delivering results for our customers, communities and company,” says Joi Harris, president and CEO of DTE Energy. “I’m excited to appoint her to lead DTE Gas as we continue investing in the reliable and increasingly cleaner energy infrastructure Michigan families and businesses depend on every day.”
Tomina joined DTE in 2010 and has held leadership roles of increasing responsibility across the company. Before becoming senior vice president of the project management office, she served as vice president of DTE Gas, where she led utility gas operations, including construction, distribution, and planning of DTE’s natural gas pipeline system.
She also held leadership roles in continuous improvement, customer service, and electric operations. Before joining DTE, she was a manufacturing leader in the automotive industry.
“I’m honored to lead DTE Gas and the team that delivers safe, reliable natural gas service to customers across Michigan,” says Tomina. “This is an exciting opportunity to build on our strong foundation, continue modernizing our system, support opportunities to grow natural gas service and help power a cleaner energy future for our state.”
Tomina earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from Lawrence Technological University and a Master of Science degree in systems engineering from Oakland University. She serves on the boards of the Michigan Economic Development Council, the United Way of Southeast Michigan, the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Trustees for Lawrence Technological University, and is active in efforts to improve the communities where she lives and serves.
Richard retires after a successful career in industrial operations and leadership, including 23 years at DTE, where he led critical functions across DTE Gas, IT, customer service, corporate services, and major enterprise initiatives.
“Bob’s leadership has made a lasting impact on DTE, and I’m deeply grateful for all he has done for our company, our customers and our people,” says Harris. “He led with integrity, built strong teams, and mentored many employees throughout his career. His contributions have strengthened our business in meaningful ways, and his legacy will continue to shape DTE for years to come.”
For more information, visit dteenergy.com.
