The Railroad Commission of Texas received the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission’s Chairman’s Stewardship Award for Energy Education at the organization’s annual conference, the agency said in an Oct. 30 news release.
The Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission, known as the IOGCC, consists of government agencies from 38 states, seven Canadian provinces and four federal agencies, according to the release. The agency described the award as an international honor recognizing exemplary leadership in responsible energy development, conservation and education. It honors the Railroad Commission’s Office of Public Engagement and Communications Division for energy education work that helps Texans understand oil and natural gas regulation and its impact on everyday life.
Executive Director Wei Wang and Communications Director Maddison Jaureguito accepted the award, the agency said. “We are honored to receive this recognition from IOGCC,” Wang said. “Every day, our employees work to help Texans better understand the Commission’s role in regulating the state’s energy industry and the importance of oil and natural gas in our daily lives. This award reflects their dedication to public service, education and meaningful engagement with the people we serve.”
The commission said it has expanded its outreach this year through town hall meetings across Texas, in-person and virtual public listening sessions, educational videos, its podcast “Texas Energy on Track” and digital communications. According to the release, the Office of Public Engagement conducted 30 speaking engagements with local organizations such as chambers of commerce and rotary clubs in 2026, meeting with more than 3,000 Texans. Staff also hosted exhibit booths at 20 events across the state, reaching more than 27,000 attendees, the agency said.
In a separate Oct. 30 release, Commissioner Wayne Christian commended agency staff for the award. “Public engagement is a top priority for the RRC,” Christian said. He also highlighted the agency’s monthly listening sessions, held on the second Tuesday of each month in person and virtually. Texans who wish to speak must register in advance, whether participating in person, online or by phone, according to the release.
“Education is a two-way street,” Christian added. “We need to hear directly from the people with boots on the ground while helping Texans better understand the RRC’s vital role in the safe and responsible development of our state’s energy resources.”
Commissioner Jim Wright also took part in the conference, which the agency said brought together state, Canadian provincial and federal regulators, government officials and industry representatives. Wright delivered an update on Texas’ oil and gas regulatory activities, the release said.