Jerry Forte was appointed chief executive officer in January 2006 following four years of service as chief operating officer for Colorado Springs Utilities. He oversees approximately 1,900 employees that are dedicated to providing more than a half million customers with electric, gas, water and wastewater services.
As a City Council appointee, Forte is accountable for the management and operation of a $1 billion budget. Under his leadership, the organization has streamlined many operations, saving customers money and improving employee safety and efficiency. He also provides leadership and direction to ensure the continuation of superior energy reliability, adequate water supply, safe wastewater system practices and environmental compliance of all utility systems. His team continuously studies opportunities to add more renewable energy to the Colorado Springs generating capacity as well as opportunities for conservation and environmental stewardship.
Forte has worked in the public and private sectors of the utility industry for a number of years. Since his appointment to Colorado Springs Utilities as the chief executive officer, Forte has continued to focus on the four goals he wants to deliver to customers: reliable service, low rates, and customer and employee satisfaction.
Forte returned to his hometown of Colorado Springs after serving the communities of Sterling, Colorado and Woodland Park, Colorado. He also worked in the private sector as a consulting engineer. He managed Johnson Control’s five-service utility in support of the Los Alamos National Laboratory, where he received awards for excellence in customer satisfaction and leadership excellence. He also has several publications to his credit.
Forte holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Colorado and is a registered professional engineer. He is a member of the American Water Works Association, the American Society of Civil Engineers and the National Society of Professional Engineers. Forte has served on the Rocky Mountain Electrical League Board of Directors, The Colorado Springs Regional Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors and The Pikes Peak United Way Campaign Council, and is currently serving as a Board Trustee for the Pikes Peak United Way.
