Secretary Doug Burgum Advocates for Energy Freedom at Stanford University

On October 10, 2025, Secretary of the Interior and Chair of the Energy Dominance Council Doug Burgum made a notable appearance at the Energy Freedom Tour's second stop at Stanford University. This event was organized in collaboration with the American Conservation Coalition (ACC) and the Hamm Institute for American Energy, aiming to underscore the importance of diversifying and optimizing America's energy landscape.

During this engagement, Burgum, alongside prominent figures in the energy sector—including Drew Baglino, the Founder and CEO of Heron Power; Patti Poppe, CEO of Pacific Gas and Electric; and Dr. Ann Bluntzer Pullin, Executive Director of the Hamm Institute—shared insights on the future of energy in the United States. This initiative highlights the collective efforts of industry leaders to foster a robust and sustainable energy workforce, essential for the nation’s economic growth.

Alex Joyce, the ACC's Vice President of Development, emphasized the crucial role of inspiring young Americans to enter the energy field, pointing out that the nation’s energy independence relies on a fresh wave of talent in the industry. This message resonates deeply amidst the backdrop of growing concerns regarding energy shortages and the need for a versatile approach to energy production.

The Energy Freedom Tour is part of a broader strategy to connect current energy leaders with aspiring professionals. The tour is designed to advocate for an all-encompassing energy strategy that embraces various sources, thus reinforcing America’s energy abilities. It is not just about presenting innovative solutions but also about securing high-quality employment opportunities in energy sectors that can uplift communities and stimulate development.

Dr. Pullin added that the tour aims to cultivate a technically skilled workforce that can navigate the evolving energy landscape. With Stanford University’s collaboration, the initiative promises to present an array of dialogues and engagements that inspire and inform students about potential career paths in energy and conservation.

The first leg of the Energy Freedom Tour took place in Boston at the end of September, featuring discussions with notable former Energy Secretaries Chris Wright and Ernie Moniz. That event provided MIT students with a unique opportunity to present their innovative projects directly to Secretary Wright, further fortifying the connection between educational institutions and the energy sector.

For those intrigued by this sector, the Legacy Center offers a job board well-suited for students interested in energy and conservation work. This initiative aims to harness the ambitions of students, guiding them towards essential roles that will drive the future of America’s energy infrastructure.

As the Energy Freedom Tour progresses, the next stop is scheduled for Texas A&M University on November 14. The ACC, a nonprofit focused on championing the conservative environmental movement, seeks to amplify dialogues around energy sustainability and innovation.

In conclusion, Secretary Doug Burgum’s involvement in the Energy Freedom Tour at Stanford University embodies a significant step toward fostering a collaborative environment between educational institutions and the energy industry. By advocating for diversified energy solutions, the tour aims to secure a sustainable and prosperous future for America’s energy sector.