Pipeline May 2026 by Society of Petroleum Engineers Permian Basin

’S CORNER

Matthew Farris Regional Sales Manager, Patina Energy

May always feels like the dog days of summer when the baseball season stretches out, the early momentum fades, and success is no longer about a fast start, but about grinding through innings with endurance, focus, and consistency.

Industry Backdrop – Navigating Uncertainty

Across the global stage, geopolitical uncertainty continues to influence commodity markets in ways that are both familiar and unpredictable. Oil prices respond quickly to headlines, policy shifts, and supply dynamics that are often outside of our control. While none of this is new, the pace and complexity of these changes serve as a reminder: volatility is not an exception in our industry it is a constant.

And yet, if there is a model for how to operate within that uncertainty, it is the Permian Basin.

Time and again, this region has demonstrated an ability to adapt, recalibrate, and move forward. Efficiency gains, technological innovation, and a relentless focus on execution have positioned the Permian not just as a leading basin, but as a benchmark for the broader petroleum industry. Resiliency here isn’t theoretical it’s operational.

Personal Note – Investing in What’s Next

That same mindset is something I’ve been thinking about more personally as well.

Earlier this year, I shared my intention to more meaningfully integrate AI into my day-to-day workflow. What started as curiosity has quickly turned into something much more substantive. Like any new tool, there is a learning curve—but there is also significant opportunity. I’ve been spending time exploring how these technologies can improve efficiency, enhance decision-making, and create leverage in ways that weren’t previously possible.

I’m currently working on something in my personal life that leans heavily into this space still early, but meaningful enough that I’m excited about where it could go. Stay tuned.

Scholarship Banquet – Full Circle Impact

As we look ahead, May also represents one of the most important moments of our SPE year: our Scholarship Awards Banquet.

This event is where everything comes full circle.

Because of the collective efforts of this section our members, sponsors, and speakers we are proud to have donated $1.623 million over the past 15 years toward scholarships and education. That number is more than a milestone; it represents real opportunity for students who will go on to shape the future of our industry.

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CHAIRMAN’S CORNER

Much like our industry and especially here in the Permian this kind of impact isn’t built overnight. It’s the result of steady investment, long-term thinking, and a commitment to doing the work year after year. The same principles that drive success in the basin are the ones that make moments like this possible.

Acknowledgements – The People Behind the

Work

That impact does not happen without people.

I want to take a moment to recognize and thank the SPE Permian Basin Board of Directors for their leadership and commitment throughout this SPE year, which began in August 2025. It has been a privilege to work alongside this group individuals who consistently bring professionalism, accountability, and a willingness to step up when it matters most. Their collective effort behind the scenes is what makes everything we do possible.

A very special thank you to Jordyn Helfrich, our current Vice-Chairman and incoming Chairman for the 2026–2027 year, for her continued dedication, leadership, and teamwork. I have no doubt the section will be in great hands moving forward.

To my wife, Alexa, and our three wonderful children thank you. Your support and understanding have allowed me to dedicate a considerable amount of time to this role. I do not take that for granted.

And finally, to our members, speakers, and sponsors thank you. Simply put, none of this happens without you.

Closing Thoughts

As we move through May and toward the close of this SPE year, I’m reminded that strong outcomes whether in sports, business, or our section are rarely the result of a single moment. They are built over time through consistency, teamwork, and a shared commitment to something bigger than ourselves.

We’re deep into the season now and I like where we stand.

Stay Connected: Be sure to mark your calendars for the upcoming events and take advantage of these valuable networking and learning opportunities. More details on our events calendar are coming soon!