Michelle Cooke

Michelle Cooke is the Chief Administrative Law Judge at the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), a position she has held since October 2022. With over two decades of experience in strategic leadership and legal oversight, she specializes in complex public infrastructure systems and processes. Her expertise encompasses team building, mediation, strategic planning, policy development, and human resources management.13

Career Overview

• Current Role: Chief Administrative Law Judge at CPUC (October 2022 - Present)
• Previous Roles:
  • Assistant Chief Administrative Law Judge (January 2018 - November 2023)
  • Acting Deputy Executive Director, Administrative Services (September 2020 - April 2021)
  • Administrative Law Judge (February 2016 - January 2018)
  • Administrative Law Judge (December 1999 - January 2006)
  • Commissioner Advisor/Regulatory Analyst (August 1990 - November 1999)

In her role as Chief Administrative Law Judge, Cooke is responsible for mentoring senior judges, developing human resources strategies, and overseeing technology improvements within the division. She has also played a significant role in managing cases related to the energy industry, focusing on areas such as energy storage and transportation electrification.123

Education

• Pomona College: Bachelor of Arts in Mathematical Economics
• UC Berkeley Extension: Certificate in Business Administration
• National Judicial College: Specialized training in administrative law and management skills for presiding judges.13

Cooke's extensive background and leadership within the CPUC highlight her commitment to enhancing California's public utility regulations and processes.