Governor-elect Kevin Stitt has appointed Kenneth Wagner as the next Secretary of Energy and Environment.

“Wagner is well respected among environment leaders, energy industry experts, and state regulators in neighboring states,” Stitt said. “He will play a critical role in advising my administration on policy that encourages robust and responsible development of our natural resources, ensures clean air and clear water for all Oklahomans, and makes our state an example for others to follow.”

Wagner currently is the senior advisor to the administrator for Regional and State Affairs at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Prior to working at the EPA, Wagner was founding partner and managing partner at the Tulsa law firm Latham, Wagner, Steele & Lehman, P.C. Wagner graduated from The University of Tulsa College of Law in 1993.

 “During his time at EPA, Ken was at the forefront of our efforts to work more closely with states and tribes to ensure clean air, water, and land for all Americans,” said Andrew Wheeler, EPA acting administrator. “ He traveled to nearly every state in the nation, strengthening existing relationships and forging important new ones. He helped provide our regional offices a direct and open line of communication to headquarters to address local issues in a comprehensive and unified manner. We are grateful for his service to EPA and the American public, and we know he will bring the same dedication and expertise to Oklahoma as he leads the state’s efforts to improve energy production and environmental protection.”

“His experience in dealing with regulations regarding energy production will ensure our state continues to implement rational and reasonable policies that encourage the responsible production of Oklahoma’s oil and natural gas,” said Chad Warmington, president of Oklahoma Oil & Gas Association.