The AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition (ACE) in Houston drew a huge turnout and participation this year, and a bit of that success rubbed off on the Young Professionals (YPs) whose signature activities, the YP Meet and Greet and the YP Networking Reception, attracted their largest crowds to date.
“Everything is bigger in Texas” might be a tired adage, but it definitely rang true at the AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition (ACE) in Houston in April. With an unprecedented number of abstract submissions and attendance ranked as the third largest in AAPG history, Space City’s thirteenth time as host city proved far from unlucky.
Fortunately, a bit of that luck rubbed off on the Young Professionals (YPs) whose signature activities, the YP Meet and Greet and the YP Networking Reception, attracted their largest crowds to date.
♦ The YP Meet and Greet, which was held on Sunday afternoon and sponsored by Noble Energy, attracted over 350 students, YPs and mentors.
As in past years, the group gathered to network, discuss careers in the oil and gas industry and the benefits of continued membership in AAPG – and enjoy refreshments.
After an hour of mixing and mingling, mentors were encouraged to accompany the student and YP participants to the Imperial Barrel Award ceremony and the opening session.
♦ Following the Icebreaker, over 250 YPs gathered at The Grove in downtown Houston for the YP Networking Reception, also sponsored by Noble Energy. Attendees enjoyed good food, local beer and the chance to network with other YPs attending the ACE.
The “invitation-only” gathering gave YPs another chance to share experiences with each other about working in the industry and being a part of AAPG.
Also during the event, a special presentation was made to outgoing YP Committee chair Nick Lagrilliere, who received a leadership award in appreciation of his achievements leading the committee, his dedication to progressing YP initiatives and his years of service to the Association.
Overall, the YP events at ACE were a big hit and their success and popularity were in large part thanks to the generous sponsorship of Noble Energy, which was represented at this year’s events by AAPG members Henry Pettingill and Chuck Caughey.
The YP Committee would like to thank everyone who participated in this year’s activities. We look forward to repeating the experience at next year’s ACE in Denver.
Stay tuned for details!