American Heat Engine: Hydrocarbons and the Power of the United States

Abstract: A fascinating overview of and excerpts from author Kent J. Williamson's recently released history of coal, oil, and natural gas in America, "American Heat Engine: Hydrocarbons and the Power of the United States." Kent will also share the interesting backstory on how he came to write the book, which likely intersects with the paths of many TGS members! Kent will also leave plenty of time for any questions the audience might have about American hydrocarbon history. Amazon Link

Bio: Kent Williamson grew up in Colorado and attended the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating in 1992 and earning a commission as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served in a variety of active duty and reserve roles for over 10 years. While on active duty, Kent completed his MBA at the University of Maryland, and in 1999 started an over two-decade business career working in product management, sales, and research roles for Hilti, Johnson Controls, and IHS (now S&P Global). In 2022, Kent left the corporate world and had the opportunity to write the book he published in early 2025, “American Heat Engine: Hydrocarbons and the Power of the United States.” Kent has been married to his wife Tracie, a native Tulsan, for almost 30 years, and they have 2 college-age kids.