Christopher Gilbert, currently the Director of Research & Development and Innovation at Central Hudson Gas & Electric, has continually demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovative prowess within the company since 2011. In the early stages of his career, Chris delved deep into the technical nuances of electric substation engineering, constantly promoting a culture of continuous improvement and pioneering innovative designs. His ascent saw him seamlessly transition into pivotal leadership roles, where he adeptly mentored and coached an array of junior-level employees and contractors.
In recent years, Christopher had taken the responsibility of leading strategic planning for Central Hudson. He has meticulously crafted strategic outlooks and business plans, strengthening the company’s future roadmap. As an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) lead at Central Hudson, Chris played an instrumental role in crafting clean energy strategies in alignment with Fortis’ decarbonization goals. Representing Central Hudson, he serves as an ambassador to both Fortis’ Innovation Network (FIN) and their esteemed partnership with Energy Impact Partners (EIP).
A visionary at heart, Chris currently oversees a range of transformative programs within Central Hudson. He leads the Bridge to Excellence program, promoting grassroots process improvements, spearheads the Innovation Awards program to incentivize ingenuity and fortify organizational culture, and champions the R&D program which focuses on funding pivotal pilot projects in both electric and gas sectors.
His academic accolades include a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from SUNY New Paltz and a Master of Science in Engineering Management from Clarkson University. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Chris is deeply committed to his community. His association with Abilities First began in 2018 and he furthered his commitment by joining the Board of the Foundation for Abilities First NY in 2020. Driven by a profound passion for mentorship, he has assumed various roles to foster the development of local youth. As a dedicated contributor to the United Way since 2011, his imprint on the community is considerable.
Further amplifying his community involvement, Chris was the esteemed recipient of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce's Forty under 40 award, a testimony to his outstanding contributions and professional achievements. His leadership prowess was further recognized with his participation in Leadership Dutchess and by being honored with the Community Advocate Award. This distinction celebrates individuals who exemplify dedication to community organizations, aiming to weave a stronger, united community fabric and earmarking them as effective future leaders of Dutchess County. Chris's leadership potential was further accentuated by his selection into Central Hudson's founding cohort of the Legacy Leadership program, a testament to his influence in sculpting the organization’s future leadership landscape.
Rooted in Hudson Valley, NY, Chris cherishes family moments with his wife Alysse, their children Oaklee and Leo, and their dog Riley. Outside of work, his passions encompass outdoor activities, sports, and tackling DIY projects at home.
