Galen Cobb: Vice President of Industry Relations for Halliburton and Chair of the US National Committee for the WPC. Image credit: Halliburton.Tell me more about the US National Committee of the WPC?
The World Petroleum Council (WPC) has nearly 65 member countries, representing over 96% of global oil and gas production and consumption. Each member country, the US included, has a National Committee. I serve as the Chair of the US National Committee, which is comprised of individuals and companies that represent the industry in the United States and lead the efforts of the US and its involvement in the triennial World Petroleum Congresses and other Council activities.
What is your hope for the 23rd World Petroleum Congress?
We are looking forward to hosting the 23rd edition of the World Petroleum Congress here in Houston, the energy capital of the world. There have been a lot of positive developments within the industry since Houston last hosted the World Petroleum Congress in 1987, including the shale revolution in the US. Our hope is that we’re able to convene key global energy leaders and provide a place to host meaningful and forward-looking conversations that will benefit generations to come.
Why should people attend the Congress?
The Congress gives attendees an all-in-one event where they can hear from influential leaders and expert speakers on current industry topics; connect with industry professionals from all over the world; and be part of influential conversations that will impact the future of energy. This is a ‘can’t-miss’ event for oil and gas professionals looking to participate in a prestigious conference with renowned participants before the end of the year.
What programming should delegates expect?
Our program will cover all levels, from the Strategic Program featuring plenary sessions, CEO panels, ministerial sessions and round tables, with insights from some of the highest-level international energy leaders and stakeholders, to our Technical Program made up of in-depth forums, round tables and expert workshops. The US National Committee is responsible for putting together the US Program that will include several US-focused sessions and industry insight luncheons, including recently announced speakers Tim Leach from ConocoPhillips, Scott Sheffield from Pioneer Natural Resources Company and Travis Stice from Diamondback Energy, who will participate in the luncheon session on the US shale revolution.
Beyond programming, what other events or activities will there be?
The Congress will host several special events such as the Dewhurst Award that will be awarded to Dr Daniel Yergin, the WPC Excellence Awards and USA Night that will celebrate the culture of the host country and City of Houston. We will also have several special features on the exhibition floor that will be a chance for delegates to learn and interact, such as the Innovation Zone by ConocoPhillips, Social Responsibility booth, NASA and more.
