Across the energy sector, data is not just a back-office function; it’s a driving force behind innovation, resilience, and the shift to a more sustainable future. That’s why Data Society is proud to sponsor the CDO Magazine spotlight of the Top 50 Data Changemakers in the Energy Sector, which recognizes individuals who are reimagining what’s possible with data.
This list is more than just a who’s who. It’s a snapshot of an industry-transforming, and it’s being shaped by people who understand the power of data to unlock real change.
Fred Knops, Senior Vice President and Energy Sector Lead at Data Society helped lead the effort. With over 30 years of experience in critical infrastructure sectors across energy, telecommunications, and government, Fred has worked with major organizations involved in the nation’s Critical Infrastructure, including Dominion, FirstEnergy, AT&T, and the Department of Homeland Security. His deep understanding of the sector, from grid modernization to AI-enabled analytics, helped shape the lens through which this year’s changemakers were selected.
“We wanted to shine a spotlight on all the amazing things happening in data across the energy sector, even in places where the Chief Data Officer role doesn’t officially exist yet. Some people despair about the pace of change to a greener grid. I see brilliance and reasons for hope in many places” said Fred Knops.
Data leaders in the energy space face complex challenges, modernizing aging infrastructure, preparing for renewable growth, and balancing reliability with innovation. This year’s honorees reflect a cross-section of roles, organizations, and approaches, but they all share one thing: they’re using data to drive real, measurable progress.
From national labs and utilities to regulatory analysts and innovation fellows, these leaders are tackling the following, among other challenges:
One standout story came from a Senior Research Fellow who conducted a groundbreaking analysis of the backlog of solar and wind projects. The insights helped spark regulatory updates and underscored how data can drive the entire spectrum of necessary changes from policy to planning to operations. “He wasn’t a CDO,” Fred explained, “but his work completely changed the conversation about grid planning and data visibility.”
Honorees represent a wide range of perspectives, from U.S. utilities to Canadian hydropower authorities, and a notable number come from government entities and national labs where research meets implementation.
Key trends that emerged:
The role of data in energy will only grow more central. And as Fred pointed out in our interview:
“In three to five years, every energy company will have a Chief Data Officer, even if they don’t today.”
Until then, this list celebrates the trailblazers who use data to illuminate the path forward.
Explore the complete list:
Top 50 Data Changemakers in the Energy Sector – CDO Magazine
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