Giving back and helping others thrive comes naturally for Demetrio “Doc” Dockery. They’re two of the many reasons that our REACH energy group members are honoring him as a 2025 Trailblazer.
Doc was nominated for the Trailblazer Award by Andre Diaz, public improvement coordinator, DTE Gas, who says of Doc, “A down-to-earth brother and a model among men, Doc is a living, breathing example of the adage that life is not a reflection of our circumstances, but rather a reflection of how we choose to respond. Like others raised in an economically disadvantaged community, growing up he was faced with many of the challenges associated with surviving adolescence in the urban neighborhood. A proud graduate of Muskegon Heights High School, his journey from teenage fatherhood into marriage and ministry epitomizes the power that materializes when passion and purpose collide.”
A 42-year-old husband and father of three, Dockery is currently a Gas Operations Supervisor with DTE, as well as the full-time pastor of New Light Baptist Church. A graduate of Grace Christian and Cornerstone Universities, it is his enthusiasm for people and his innate desire that we all thrive in Christ which drives his daily interactions. He started his pastoring journey during the pandemic and grew his congregation significantly during that time.
After Doc joined our company, he worked with leadership to remove barriers that prevented some highly talented and dedicated people from joining our company. He’s mentored community members through the hiring and interview process, testing resources and advising on job postings. He’s led the path in improving and diversifying the workforce at DTE Muskegon.
“We were created to shine in darkness, and Doc shines as a beacon of hope within the Muskegon and Muskegon Heights communities,” says Andre. “In a place where darkness and shadows often become overwhelming, it is refreshing to know that Doc is there.”
Doc also devotes time and experience to the Muskegon Heat Basketball program. As a top leader for the organization, he impacts the lives of youth through coaching and mentoring while honing their skills as athletes. With the support of his parishioners, he also hosts a yearly back-to-school bash, during which he provides free hairstyles and haircuts, backpacks and other school supplies for more than 350 students annually. During the Christmas season, he hosts a toy drive providing gifts and sentiments in the spirit of Christ to families in need.
“I’m passionate about helping others reach their full potential,” says Doc. “Receiving this award motivates me to give my best, knowing that my efforts are seen and can inspire others in turn. As I accepted this award, I couldn’t help but reflect: Who would have thought that a boy from the East Park Manor Projects would one day be paving the way for other underprivileged people of color to rise and thrive?”
Doc will be honored with Trevor Lauer and Yvette Johnson as our 2025 Trailblazers, along with our first REACH Scholarship recipients, at the 2025 DTE REACH Trailblazer & Scholarship Award Fundraiser on Friday, June 20 at The Roostertail in Detroit.