DeKalb GA News

President Donald Trump has nominated Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy, for the position of United States Secretary of Energy. The announcement was made on Truth Social, where Trump also revealed the creation of a new entity, the Council of National Energy.

In his statement, Trump expressed enthusiasm about Wright's appointment: “I am thrilled to announce that Chris Wright will be joining my Administration as both United States Secretary of Energy, and Member of the newly formed Council of National Energy.”

Trump highlighted Wright's background in various energy sectors including nuclear, solar, geothermal, oil, and gas. He praised Wright as "a leading technologist and entrepreneur" who played a pivotal role in launching the American Shale Revolution. According to Trump, this revolution significantly contributed to American energy independence and impacted global energy markets and geopolitics.

The newly established Council of National Energy aims to involve all relevant departments and agencies in managing American energy forms. Its mission is to enhance U.S. energy dominance by reducing bureaucratic obstacles and encouraging private sector investment across different economic sectors. Emphasizing innovation over regulation is a key focus for the council.

Wright has collaborated extensively with Doug Burgum, designated as Council Chairman and Interior Secretary. Trump believes this team will strengthen U.S. energy dominance, reduce inflation, compete in the AI arms race with China and others, and boost American diplomatic influence globally.

Trump described Wright's future role: “As Secretary of Energy, Chris will be a key leader, driving innovation, cutting red tape, and ushering in a new ‘Golden Age of American Prosperity and Global Peace.’”

Chris Wright founded Liberty Energy and serves as its Chief Executive Officer and Chairman. His educational background includes an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering from MIT and graduate work in Electrical Engineering at UC Berkeley and MIT. In 1992 he founded Pinnacle Technologies which advanced shale gas production through hydraulic fracture mapping innovations.

Wright's past roles include serving as CEO of Pinnacle until 2006 and being Chairman of Stroud Energy before its acquisition by Range Resources. He also founded Liberty Resources in 2010 focusing on Bakken exploration until its sale in 2024.

Currently residing in Colorado with his wife Liz, Wright is involved with several boards including Oklo Inc., EMX Royalty Corp., ACE Scholarships, and the Bettering Human Lives Foundation.