South Texas is a dynamic and diverse energy region, anchored by major energy markets in San Antonio, Austin, and Corpus Christi. The area is home to leading energy companies such as Valero Energy Corporation, Howard Energy Partners, and CPS Energy along with a broad ecosystem of refiners, midstream operators, utilities, engineering firms, and emerging energy innovators that collectively power the regional economy.
In 2008, the South Texas energy landscape experienced a significant transformation with the development of the Eagle Ford Shale, an expansive oil and gas play stretching approximately 400 miles from just north of Laredo to northeast of Austin. This rapid growth accelerated investment, job creation, and cross-sector collaboration throughout the region, including along the Gulf Coast and in Corpus Christi’s critical refining and export corridor.
As the energy sector expanded, so did the presence and influence of women working across all facets of the industry. This growth created a clear need for connection, professional development, and leadership opportunities, ultimately paving the way for a strong regional network dedicated to supporting women in energy throughout South Texas.
In 2013, two women that saw this need and joined forces to drive the opportunity for women to connect in their own South Texas community, and in April of that same year, Janet Irwine and Paula Waggone-Aguilar pulled together an amazing group of women to form the South Texas Chapter of the Women’s Energy Network (WEN-ST). In just its first nine months, WEN-ST grew to 146 members, and continues to grow providing networking and professional development opportunities for its members. Today, WEN-ST covers a 200-mile radius around San Antonio, including Austin, Corpus Christi, and Laredo.
Founding Board Members:
- Paula Waggoner-Aguilar, The Energy CFO, President
- Monica Madrid Rose, ITSA Energy, President Elect
- Janet Irwine, Tesoro Companies, Inc., Director Program Development
- Nora Bryant, Burleson Law, Secretary
- Siobhan Karger Mullen, Burleson Law, Director Membership Development
- Jana Kennelly, UTSA, Director Community Initiatives
- Lynnae Willett, BHP, Co-Director Marketing
- Haley Curry, STEER, Co-Director Marketing
- Brittany M. Weil, Burleson Law, Event Chair
- Lisa Trefger, NuStar Energy, Treasurer