Rusty Harris Takes Leadership Role at Enbridge Gas

Categories: South Carolina Business NewsSouth Carolina LifestyleSouth Carolina News

News Summary

Rusty Harris has transitioned from Enbridge Gas North Carolina to lead Enbridge Gas Ohio, stepping into the role formerly held by Dan Weekley. With extensive experience in the energy sector, Harris will oversee operations in both North Carolina and Ohio, supporting over 1.2 million customers in Ohio and 650,000 in North Carolina. This leadership change comes during a pivotal time for Enbridge as it continues to expand its influence in the natural gas industry.

Welcome to Cleveland: Rusty Harris Takes on New Challenge at Enbridge Gas

In a significant move from Enbridge Gas North Carolina to its Ohio operations, Rusty Harris is set to take on a broader role within the company. Rusty, who has held the position of vice president and general manager in North Carolina, will now add responsibilities for Enbridge Gas Ohio, stepping into the shoes of retiring executive Dan Weekley. This shift will officially take place on July 1, marking a new chapter for both Harris and the company.

Transitioning Leadership

Rusty’s promotion is coming at a pivotal time for Enbridge, which recently acquired East Ohio Gas Co. for a whopping $6.6 billion from Dominion Energy back in March 2024. This transition has been smooth under Weekley’s leadership, and now it’s Rusty who will carry that torch into the future. Weekley has been instrumental in this acquisition and has helped solidify the framework for Enbridge’s operations in Ohio.

As Rusty takes the reins, he will split his time between North Carolina, where he has built a solid reputation, and Ohio, with Cleveland now serving as his operational headquarters. The dual responsibilities will require him to balance both markets efficiently, helping over 1.2 million customers in Ohio while continuing to oversee 650,000 customers in North Carolina.

A Glimpse at Rusty Harris

Rusty is no stranger to the energy sector. He began his career with SCANA Corp and its various subsidiaries in 1986. His experience and commitment to the field have helped him ascend to his current role as a vice president at Enbridge, where he’s been based in Gastonia since October. It’s safe to say that he knows what it takes to lead in the competitive natural gas industry.

What sets Rusty apart is his educational background. He holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Clemson University and an MBA from the University of South Carolina. This blend of technical knowledge and business acumen undoubtedly gives him an edge as he steps into this new leadership role. Rusty is also actively involved in various community boards, including the North Carolina Chamber and the Southern Gas Association. His prominence in the Gastonia area is enhanced as he currently serves as the chair of the Gaston Business Association.

Enbridge’s Notable Footprint

Enbridge is a massive operation, employing approximately 16,000 people across the US and Canada. The company doesn’t just stop at Ohio and North Carolina; it manages natural gas systems in several states, including Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, and even Ontario and Quebec. The company’s broad asset portfolio extends across 43 US states, eight Canadian provinces, and five other countries, making it a key player in the natural gas supply chain.

The expansion of Harris’s role not only signifies a continuation of leadership but also an opportunity for growth as Enbridge aims to enhance service and infrastructure. With over 1.2 million customers in Ohio and the goal to improve their experience while efficiently managing resources, there’s a lot riding on this transition.

Looking Ahead

As Rusty Harris prepares to step up, both current and future customers can look forward to a stable transition, filled with enthusiasm and fresh ideas. His leadership, vision, and experience are undeniably essential as Enbridge continues to forge its path within the energy landscape. We wish Rusty all the best in this exciting new endeavor!