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Special Commemorative Issue: Celebrating 50 Years of the Society of Petroleum Engineers

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Special Commemorative Issue:
Celebrating 50 Years of the Society of Petroleum Engineers

Introduction: Celebrating a Half-Century

A welcome to this 50th anniversary issue by John Donnelly, JPT Editor.

What SPE Has Meant to Me

2007 SPE President Abdul-Jaleel Al-Khalifa, 2008 President William Cobb, and SPE Executive Director Mark Rubin offer brief reflections on the society. PDF version

Gallery of SPE Presidents

The official portraits of each of SPE's presidents, from 1957 to the present. PDF version

SPE Presidents Look Back on 50 Years of Growth and Accomplishment

Former SPE Presidents look back on their terms—the highlights, the challenges, and the milestones. PDF version

SPE Presidents Travel the World

Photos from SPE Presidents’ travels through the years. PDF version

1957-69: The Early Years

The year 1957 was a time of advancement in technology, science, and education around the world. Among these historical moments
in politics, science, and popular culture came the official creation of the Society of Petroleum Engineers. PDF version

1970-79: Change and Challenge

During the 1970s, SPE evolved into a technical-professional society, expanded internationally, and looked to the future with plans in place. The decade began with the first politically charged "Earth Day" and ended with the Iranian revolution and the second "oil shock." PDF version

1980-89: Surviving Industry Turbulence

Despite the free fall in oil prices that would mark a low point for the oil and gas industry during the 1980s, SPE not only survived, but in some ways thrived by increasing the international membership. PDF version

1990-2007: Toward the Future

During the 1990s, SPE became truly international, opening offices outside the US, expanding its publications, and launching its website. PDF version

Guest Columns

Industry experts both look back on their journeys through the industry, and offer perspectives on the future. Many readers will recognize JPT and technical journal writers and editors from the past, including Keith Millheim, Joseph Warren, and Dennis Beliveau. PDF version

Sections Have Brought the Society to Members Where They Live

SPE's success can be monitored not only by its growth in membership but by its growth in the number of local sections. PDF version Also:

• SPE Scholarships Help Individuals Pursue Their Dreams
• Sections Celebrate Around the World