Consumers Energy Announces Leadership Changes in Electric and Gas Distribution

Rhea-AI Summary

Consumers Energy (NYSE:CMS) has announced key leadership changes effective October 1, 2025, to enhance reliability and service for Michigan customers. Norm Kapala will become vice president of grid operations restoration and work management, while Steve Champine will serve as vice president of gas operations.

Kapala, who joined in 2008, brings extensive experience from both electric and gas operations, including his previous role as vice president of gas operations. Champine, currently senior executive director of gas operations, has over 20 years of industry experience and has been instrumental in advancing the company's net zero methane initiatives.

Positive

• Leadership appointments strengthen both gas and electric operations expertise
• Both leaders bring significant internal experience and knowledge of the company's operations
• Demonstrates commitment to achieving net zero methane goals

Negative

• None.

JACKSON, Mich., Sept. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumers Energy today announced leadership changes to strengthen reliability and service for Michigan customers. Effective October 1, Norm Kapala will serve as vice president of grid operations restoration and work management and Steve Champine will serve as vice president of gas operations.

"I'm pleased to share we are bolstering our leadership in both gas and electric with these two experienced, proven leaders who will continue our commitment to serve Michigan with reliable and dependable energy," said Tonya Berry, executive vice president and chief operating officer.

Kapala joined Consumers Energy in 2008 and has held leadership roles across both electric and gas operations. He began his career as an engineer in generation operations and advanced through a series of leadership roles including vice president of generation operations. Most recently, he served as vice president of gas operations before accepting the leadership role in electric distribution. Kapala earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan Technological University and a master's degree in manufacturing management from Kettering University. He also served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and Navy Reserve.

"Norm's strong and steady leadership and enterprise-wide experience will ensure our entire team is prepared, safe and focused on serving and restoring customers in all conditions," said Tonya Berry.

Champine currently serves as senior executive director of gas operations overseeing gas transmission, storage, compression and construction. He has over two decades of experience in the energy industry both in gas and electric operations, starting at the Karn Generating Station where he held multiple operational roles with increasing responsibility. He also held leadership positions in gas and electric distribution. Steve holds a bachelor's degree in welding engineering technology from Ferris State University and a Master's of Business Administration from Northwood University.

"Steve's influential leadership has been critical in advancing our net zero methane goals, while strengthening unions partnerships and redefining our gas strategy," said Tonya Berry.

Consumers Energy is Michigan's largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

 

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SOURCE CMS Energy

FAQ

Who are the new leadership appointments at Consumers Energy (NYSE:CMS)?

Effective October 1, 2025, Norm Kapala will serve as vice president of grid operations restoration and work management, and Steve Champine will serve as vice president of gas operations.

What is Norm Kapala's background at Consumers Energy?

Kapala joined Consumers Energy in 2008 and has held various leadership roles in both electric and gas operations, including vice president of generation operations and most recently vice president of gas operations. He has degrees from Michigan Technological University and Kettering University.

What experience does Steve Champine bring to his new role at CMS?

Champine has over 20 years of energy industry experience in both gas and electric operations. He currently serves as senior executive director of gas operations and has been key in advancing net zero methane goals and strengthening union partnerships.

How many customers does Consumers Energy serve in Michigan?

Consumers Energy serves 6.8 million of Michigan's 10 million residents across all 68 Lower Peninsula counties with natural gas and/or electricity services.