William J. Akley is a highly respected retired utility executive with over 40 years of leadership and management experience in the natural gas sector. Most recently, he served as President of Gas Operations for Eversource Energy, a role he held until his retirement in July 2024. In this capacity, Akley was instrumental in overseeing the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas to approximately 887,000 customers across 190 towns and cities in Connecticut and Massachusetts, ensuring operational excellence and a strong focus on safety and customer service.
Akley’s career in the utility industry began as a field engineer at Brooklyn Union Gas in New York City, where he developed a solid foundation in the principles of natural gas transmission and distribution. This early experience ignited his passion for the industry and set the stage for his impressive career trajectory. He then progressed to KeySpan Energy, where he honed his skills and gained invaluable insights into the intricacies of gas operations across New York, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.
In 2007, Akley took on the role of Senior Vice President of U.S. Gas Operations at National Grid, where he was responsible for field operations encompassing construction, maintenance, and meter service throughout the company’s extensive service territory. His tenure at National Grid further solidified his reputation as a leading authority in the utility sector, marked by his commitment to operational safety and efficiency.
Throughout his career, Akley has been a strong advocate for safety in the industry. He served as the Chairperson of the Safety Committee for the American Gas Association, where he played a key role in developing and promoting safety standards that have become benchmarks in the industry. His leadership has been characterized by a commitment to best practices in risk management and a relentless pursuit of operational improvements.
Akley remains a dedicated member of the Northeast Gas Association, contributing to initiatives that support the safety and reliability of the natural gas industry in the region. His extensive network and deep understanding of industry dynamics position him as a valuable asset to organizations seeking guidance in energy delivery and infrastructure. He also has been a recognized leader in regional decarbonization efforts, bringing balanced approaches to reducing carbon emissions. Akley served on the Massachusetts Commission on Clean Heat in 2022 which provided a set of policy recommendations to achieve targeted greenhouse gas emission reductions.
William J. Akley holds an MBA from Adelphi University and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering from Clarkson University. His academic background, combined with his extensive professional experience, equips him with the strategic insight necessary to navigate the complexities of the utility landscape.
In his retirement, Akley remains committed to giving back to the industry, sharing his expertise and knowledge with emerging leaders and organizations. His legacy is one of excellence in service delivery, a steadfast commitment to safety, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the energy sector today. Through his leadership and dedication, William J. Akley has left an indelible mark on the utility industry, influencing positive change and setting high standards for future generations.
Character
William J. Akley exemplifies integrity and a steadfast commitment to safety, making him a respected leader in the utility industry.
Knowledge
With over 40 years of experience, Akley possesses comprehensive expertise in natural gas transmission and distribution operations.
Strategic
His leadership roles across major utility companies highlight his ability to implement operational improvements and navigate complex industry challenges effectively.
Communication
Akley’s active participation in industry associations and public speaking engagements demonstrates his dedication to fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge within the energy sector.
