This week, EWTC President Tim Tarpley joined industry and community leaders in Lake Charles, Louisiana, for a panel discussion at the Americas LNG Summit & Exhibition. The session, “Creating Social Value and Local Economic Growth through Community Engagement,” focused on how LNG projects continue to drive economic growth, workforce opportunities, and responsible development across the Gulf Coast.
Panelists included:
· Mike Dorris, Senior Vice President & Woodside Program Manager, Bechtel
· Leah Kasparek, Vice President – Human Resources and External Affairs, Cameron LNG
· Tim Tarpley, President, Energy Workforce & Technology Council
· Sara McLeod Judson, CEO, Community Foundation Southwest Louisiana
Panelists discussed the critical role U.S. LNG plays in meeting global energy demand while supporting American jobs, investment, and innovation at home. Speakers emphasized the importance of a strong supply chain and a predictable regulatory environment to keep projects on track and maintain America’s position as a trusted energy partner abroad.
Tarpley highlighted the stabilizing effect of U.S. LNG exports on domestic manufacturing and gas production, which in turn strengthens the energy workforce and broader economy. He also underscored the need for permitting reform to accelerate LNG infrastructure and ensure growth across all U.S. basins, noting that the benefits of LNG extend far beyond individual projects, fueling opportunity throughout the energy value chain.
Jeff Emerick, Director of Government Affairs, writes about the Energy Workforce & Technology Council. Click here to subscribe to the Energy Workforce newsletter, which highlights sector-specific issues, best practices, activities and more.
