Her Story
About Deborah
Deborah is a nationally recognized energy policy leader whose career has been defined by advancing innovative regulatory solutions, modernizing utility planning, and helping shape the future of energy systems across the United States. With more than 25 years of experience in utility regulation and public policy, she currently serves as Senior Regulatory Policy Specialist at the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC), where she works with regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders on some of the most pressing issues facing the energy sector, including transmission expansion, resource adequacy, grid reliability, electrification, and integrated resource planning. Her ability to translate complex technical and regulatory challenges into actionable policy has made her a trusted voice in the energy community.
Prior to joining NARUC, Deborah spent more than two decades with the Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission, where she played a key role in implementing landmark energy policies and guiding utility planning through a period of significant industry transformation. As Assistant Director of Conservation and Energy Planning, she established and led a new regulatory section responsible for overseeing conservation, renewable energy, transportation electrification, and utility resource planning programs. She later served as Managing Director of the Clean Transportation Unit at the Washington State Department of Commerce, where she led the development of Washington’s first statewide Transportation Electrification Strategy and oversaw a $69 million charging infrastructure grant program. Throughout her career, Deborah has helped utilities, regulators, and policymakers navigate evolving energy demands while balancing affordability, reliability, sustainability, and equity.
A graduate of Washington State University with both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Regional Planning, Deborah has built her career on intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to public service. She is widely respected for her ability to convene diverse stakeholders, foster productive dialogue, and develop practical solutions to complex policy challenges. As the energy industry confronts rapid technological change, increasing electrification, and growing infrastructure demands, Deborah continues to contribute to the development of forward-looking regulatory frameworks that will shape a more resilient, reliable, and sustainable energy future for generations to come.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Deborah
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being curious and maintaining a lifelong commitment to learning. If you're genuinely interested in what you do and continually seek to understand more, you'll keep growing, evolving, and finding new opportunities throughout your career.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to never be afraid to ask questions. I believe there is always something to learn, and seeking guidance from others—especially those with expertise and experience—can provide valuable insights that help you grow both personally and professionally.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
This is a male dominated industry and you have to be ready to work hard and start at entry level positions. There is plenty of room for growth. Look for a utility commission to work for. There's one in every state.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the ongoing challenges in my field is that it remains largely male-dominated. At the same time, there is tremendous opportunity for growth and advancement for those who are willing to put in the work, continue learning, and embrace new challenges. The industry is evolving rapidly, creating countless opportunities to make a meaningful impact.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me are honesty, integrity, open communication, and curiosity. I believe continuous learning and asking questions are essential for growth, and I’ve also found that maintaining a sense of play and enjoyment helps foster creativity, strengthen connections, and keep me engaged in both my work and personal life.
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