Fort Worth Community Faces Political Shift as Birdwell Retires and Cook Steps Up

How Texas Energy Growth Positively Affects Fort Worth's Future

Update Texas Energy Market: A Silver Lining for Fort Worth The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East have stirred uncertainty in the global energy landscape, with many experts predicting significant spikes in fuel prices. Surprisingly, the market has defied expectations, with oil prices dropping sharply on June 24, 2025, to $64.37 a barrel, a level reminiscent of before the Iran-Israel tensions erupted. For residents of Fort Worth, this might seem counterintuitive, but it highlights Texas's remarkable resilience in the energy sector and its profound impact on local communities. Gas Prices: What You Need to Know As of June 26, 2025, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline was reported at $3.22, a modest increase from the previous week but still generous compared to last year's prices. Texas, however, enjoys a slightly better rate at an average of $2.82 per gallon. This disparity emphasizes how local dynamics can sometimes cushion residents from national trends, rooted deeply in Texas's vast energy production capabilities. Texas’s Energy Production Trends According to the Texas Oil and Gas Association, the Lone Star State maintained steady crude oil production of 5.7 million barrels per day as of May 2025. California, eat your heart out: Texas is a powerhouse. Additionally, natural gas production hit a staggering 34.4 billion cubic feet daily. These figures not only illustrate the state's dominance in energy exports, which totaled $19.8 billion in March alone, but also showcase a thriving local job market in this sector. Local Heroes: Influential Leaders in Energy Fort Worth’s very own Vaughn O. Vennerberg II, a former president and founder of XTO Energy, is a crucial player in this growth narrative. Under his leadership, XTO transformed into the nation’s leading domestic gas producer, a position solidified by a billion-dollar acquisition by ExxonMobil in 2010. Reflecting on the current landscape, Vennerberg remarks, “A lot of the gas produced in Texas is actually exported, and that’s a good thing, as the revenues largely remain within Texas.” His insights remind us that local leadership can indeed cultivate considerable economic growth, serving as a know-how for other industries in Fort Worth seeking similar success. Employment Opportunities in the Energy Sector The Texas Workforce Commission recently reported an uptick in oil and gas employment related to drilling and production, adding approximately 2,200 jobs in May alone. This growth, a 3.6% increase from the start of 2025, indicates that Fort Worth is reaping the rewards of a booming energy sector. The jobs created often translate into enhanced livelihoods for families, fueling broader economic stability across the community. Fort Worth’s Future in Energy Diversity Looking ahead, the city's connection to the reserve-rich regions of West Texas positions it as a significant player in America’s energy future. With ongoing developments in both gas and oil production, there is room for Fort Worth to diversify energy sources, invest in innovative technologies, and create scalable models for sustainability. The focus not only ensures a steady supply of energy but also fosters an environment for green initiatives, helping Fort Worth become a hub for new ideas and fresh opportunities. As residents of Fort Worth navigate the challenges posed by global events, it’s essential to recognize and support the local narratives driving community progress. Embracing and investing in this booming energy sector can, quite literally, fuel Fort Worth’s economic engine. It's time for everyone in the community to rally behind our energy leaders — as their success is ultimately a victory for us all.