RRC Executive Director Wei Wang and Communications Director Maddison Jaureguito accept the 2026 IOGCC Chair’s Stewardship Award in the Energy Education category.
(WO) – The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) received the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission’s (IOGCC) Chairman’s Stewardship Award for Energy Education at the IOGCC Annual Conference. The award recognizes the RRC’s Office of Public Engagement (OPE) and its Communications Division for helping Texans understand oil and gas regulation and the industry’s role in daily life. The IOGCC represents government agencies from 38 states, seven Canadian provinces and four federal agencies.
“Every day, our employees work to help Texans better understand the Commission’s role in regulating the state’s energy industry and the importance of oil and natural gas in our daily lives,” said RRC Executive Director Wei Wang. “This award reflects their dedication to public service, education and meaningful engagement with the people we serve.”
The RRC has expanded its outreach this year through town hall meetings, educational videos, its “Texas Energy on Track” podcast and public listening sessions. The listening sessions are now held monthly, in person and online. In 2026, OPE staff gave 30 talks to community groups, including chambers of commerce and Rotary clubs, reaching more than 3,000 people. They also staffed exhibit booths at 20 events statewide, which drew more than 27,000 attendees.
“Education is a two-way street,” said RRC Commissioner Wayne Christian. “We need to hear directly from the people with boots on the ground while helping Texans better understand the RRC’s vital role in the safe and responsible development of our state’s energy resources.”
At the conference, RRC Commissioner Jim Wright gave an update on Texas’ oil and gas regulatory activities. He highlighted the agency’s efforts to protect public safety and the environment while supporting responsible energy development. The annual event brings together state, provincial and federal regulators, government officials and industry representatives to discuss oil and gas production and regulation across North America.
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