Q&A With 2027 SPE President C. Susan Howes: Learn. Share. Connect. Grow

_ C. Susan Howes begins her 2027 SPE presidency with a focus on strengthening the Society’s role as the energy industry’s leading source of technical excellence while advancing professional development and member engagement across its global community. Guided by the theme “Learn. Share. Connect. Grow.,” she is focused on helping members build rewarding careers while strengthening SPE for the future. In this interview with JPT, she discusses her goals for the Society and the importance of cultivating talent across the energy industry. PB: As you begin your term as SPE President, what is the overarching theme or vision that will guide your leadership? SH: My theme as 2027 SPE president is “Learn. Share. Connect. Grow.” Originally developed for the pilot of the NextGen Early Career Lecture Program, it captures the value that SPE provides throughout every stage of a professional career. Whether members are students, young professionals, or experienced technical leaders, SPE offers opportunities to continuously learn, share knowledge, build meaningful professional relationships, and grow both technically and personally. These four words reflect not only what SPE does best, but also the culture I hope to reinforce during my presidency. “Learn. Share. Connect. Grow.” PB: What are the top priorities you hope to accomplish during your presidency, and what impact would you like to have on SPE and its members? SH: My priority is to strengthen SPE’s long-term impact by reinforcing its role as the premier source of technical excellence, professional development, and community for the global energy industry. At our July 2026 SPE International Board meeting, we began updating SPE’s Strategic Plan around three interconnected objectives: - Solutions—The Premier Source of Technical Excellence - People—Develop the Future Workforce - Energy—Transform our Business Model These objectives align closely with the priorities I established when I was nominated for president.