Gov. Brad Henry, D-Okla., has accepted the resignation of Oklahoma Secretary of Energy David Fleischaker and immediately named Fleischaker's deputy to succeed him in the top energy post. Robert Wegener has served as the state's deputy secretary of energy since 2005.
Fleischaker recently informed the governor of his desire to return to the private sector, where he serves as president and CEO of Jolen Operating Co.
‘I hate to lose David because he has been an invaluable asset to my administration and the state of Oklahoma,’ says Henry. ‘However, I certainly understand his decision and wish him the very best.’
Henry originally appointed Fleischaker to his cabinet in 2003, and he has taken the lead on a number of Henry's initiatives over the last five years, including the creation of the Oklahoma Bioenergy Center in 2007.
Before joining the secretary of energy's office three years ago, Wegener was an attorney in private practice specializing in cases involving oil and gas issues and public utilities. Wegener has a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University and a law degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Law.
Wegener will assume his cabinet secretary duties immediately. His post requires confirmation from the state Senate.
SOURCE: Office of Gov. Brad Henry
