Energy Workforce & Technology Council (EWTC) hosted Congressman Gabe Evans (CO-08) for a tour of Halliburton’s Fort Lupton, Colorado facility and a roundtable discussion. Led by EWTC President Tim Tarpley, the discussion brought together industry representatives to highlight the challenges and opportunities facing energy service companies and the importance of policies that support domestic energy production, business competitiveness, and workforce development.
The visit provided an opportunity to connect federal policymaking with daily operations in the energy services industry. From the regulatory environment governing energy development to the costs of equipment and the availability of skilled workers, federal policies can have significant implications for companies that provide the technology, expertise, and services necessary to develop America’s energy resources.
A central focus of the discussion was permitting reform and the need for an efficient, predictable regulatory process. Permitting requirements can influence the timeline and cost of energy projects, affecting investment decisions, and the ability of companies to deploy equipment and personnel. Improving permitting processes while maintaining appropriate environmental and safety protections can help reduce unnecessary delays, support infrastructure development, and provide greater certainty for businesses operating across the energy sector.
The group also discussed tariffs and their impact on energy service companies. The industry relies on specialized equipment, machinery, components, and materials to support operations. Changes in trade policy can affect procurement costs, supply chains and project budgets, creating additional challenges for companies working to deliver services efficiently. These considerations underscore the importance of evaluating how trade policies affect domestic manufacturing, industry investment, and the broader competitiveness of the U.S. energy sector.
Energy service companies depend on a skilled workforce capable of operating advanced equipment, maintaining complex systems, and supporting increasingly technology-driven operations. Recruiting, training, and retaining qualified workers remains essential to meeting industry needs. Policies that encourage workforce development, strengthen technical education and expand pathways into skilled energy careers can help employers address talent shortages while creating opportunities for American workers.
The discussion also addressed the FIRE Act (H.R. 6387), highlighting the importance of legislative engagement on issues affecting the energy services industry. The bill was part of the broader policy conversation about the federal decisions that shape the operating environment for energy companies.
EWTC thanks Congressman Evans for taking the time to engage with industry leaders and learn more about the priorities facing the energy services sector. Thank you to Robert Harber and the Halliburton team for hosting the facility tour and roundtable, and to Jason Milligan of Weatherford for participating and sharing valuable industry perspectives.
Through continued collaboration with policymakers and industry partners, EWTC remains committed to advancing policies that strengthen the energy services sector, support a skilled American workforce and promote a competitive domestic energy industry.
Jessica Santos, Director Government Affairs, writes about industry-specific policies for the Energy Workforce & Technology Council. Click here to subscribe to the Energy Workforce newsletter, which highlights sector-specific issues, best practices, activities and more.
