US energy leaders must learn to “thrive not just survive” during the international oil downturn, according to the head of Price College of Business in Oklahoma.
Dean Daniel W. Pullin wants delegates at the University of Oklahoma’s 2017 Energy Symposium to leave feeling energised about the opportunities for the future of the industry despite a sub $60 oil price.
And he said that the panel of 20 influential speakers from private and research sectors of should inspire the next generation to overcome the challenges that are standing in the way of progress.
Pullin said: “This year’s symposium is focused on how we as energy leaders can not only survive, but thrive, in such a complex and uncertain environment.
“After the symposium, attendees should walk away with invaluable and applicable insights regarding such issues as global population demographics, economic growth, and geopolitical uncertainties; future hydrocarbon resource potential and limitations, and the economic realities of alternative energy resources; the challenges and opportunities the US. has in regards to the current carbon dilemma, seismicity and water management; and how technology and innovation can address these opportunities and challenges.”
Pullin, who introduced the first session at the Oklahoma event, said the symposium was created as an annual event that fosters outreach with the energy industry.
Themes change year to year, with the 2017 event focusing on the uncertainty caused by geo-politcal events such as the war in Syria, President Donald Trump’s energy policy and the continuing impact of the Russian superpower under Valdimir Putin.
He added: “Each year’s symposium aims to tackle the most pressing issue the energy industry is facing at that moment.
“Each year, our attendees leave the symposium better informed and prepared to face the challenges ahead.”