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PARTICIPATE. EDUCATE. ENGAGE



Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Member Networking Social featuring North Dakota Petroleum Council President Ron Ness and the state of the industry.

It was an insightful evening packed with important updates, from the economic impact of the oil and gas industry—making up 35% of North Dakota’s Gross State Product—to record-breaking production numbers like 1,172,286 barrels of oil per day and a statewide gas capture rate of 95% in January 2025.

Ron also shared key legislative updates and initiatives shaping the future of our industry such as the NDPC & NDPF's passion for investing in today’s youth through impactful programs such as Tools, Trades, Torque Tech (T4)—an initiative that introduces students to vital workforce skills through hands-on activities with industry leaders and technicians. T4 helps keep students inspired and informed about the opportunities in our industry.

Continuing the empaphasis on the importance of education, the upcoming Teacher Education Seminar will take place June 16–19 in Bismarck. This event will welcome 50 teachers, educators, and school counselors for an immersive experience designed to deepen their understanding of the oil and gas industry and workforce needs—both through classroom learning and hands-on activities.

Another exciting initiative is Planting for the Future, which has already planted over 522,000 trees since 2018. This spring alone, over 100,000 more trees are forecasted to be planted—contributing to conservation, habitat restoration, and a greener future for North Dakota.

We are grateful for the support of our sponsors—WellPro , Recoil, and Thruster Energy—and for each member who continues to move this industry forward. Stay connected and inspired—we're just getting started.

Finally we would like to extend a special thank you to Ron Ness for presenting and to the North Dakota Petroleum Council for their continued contributions to the oil and gas industry and for their commitment to educating and inspiring the next generation.



Williston API Member Networking Social Recap

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for the Williston API Member Networking Social! It was a fantastic evening of connection, conversation, and industry insights.

A special shoutout to Jason Swaren, SVP Execution for Chord Energy, for sharing his expertise in his presentation, "Get to Know Chord Energy." With over 30 years in the oil and gas industry, Jason provided invaluable knowledge about Chord Energy’s operations and vision. His experience—from leading operations at Oasis Petroleum to managing large-scale projects worldwide—made for an engaging and informative discussion.

We also want to extend our sincere gratitude to Creedence Energy Services for sponsoring this event. Your support helps make these gatherings possible and continues to strengthen our industry connections.

We appreciate all our members and sponsors who contribute to the success of these events. Stay tuned for more opportunities to connect and collaborate in the future! #WillistonAPI #Networking #EnergyIndustry #ThankYouCreedence



API WILLISTON LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT RECIPIENTS 2024


The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes leaders who have made significant contributions to the development of oil and natural gas in North Dakota. The criterion for the award includes at least 25 years of work in the oil and gas industry with the majority of that time being spent in the Williston Basin. In addition, the recipient must have contributed significantly to the functions and activities representing oil and gas in North Dakota and be committed to the industry and organization’s well-being.

Williston Basin Chapter of the American Petroleum Institute board of Directors and Advisory board are proudly honored to present:

2024 LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT RECIPIENTS:

 TIM SCHMIDT 

RON PIESIK

 BOB REYNOLDS


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(Pictured left-right) Lynn Helms, Kathy Neset, Tim Schmidt & Monte Besler

Tim Schmidt graduated from North Dakota State University in March 1981 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. Shortly after, he began his oilfield career as a field engineer with Gearhart Industries, a wireline company, stationed in Williston, ND. Initially trained as a Cased Hole engineer, Tim expanded his expertise to include Production Logging and Open Hole Logging, becoming a skilled wireline logging engineer.

In 1988, Halliburton Energy Services acquired Gearhart Industries, and Tim's career took him to various locations across the United States, including offshore Ventura and Bakersfield, CA; Wyoming; Utah; Montana; Colorado; New Mexico; Kansas; Texas; Pennsylvania; Michigan; and Oklahoma. He excelled in roles ranging from field engineer to sales, management, and technical advisor.

Tim's expertise also led to assignments in international locations, including Egypt, Angola, and Russia. He worked with the Jet Research Center in Alvarado, TX, as a technical advisor and explosives testing engineer for Halliburton's logging and perforating division.

Despite the many moves his career required, the Williston Basin always called Tim back home. His deep connection to the region and dedication to the oil and gas industry left a lasting mark on the field and the communities he served.

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(Pictured left-right) Lynn Helms, Kathy Neset, Ron Piesik & Monte Besler

Ron Piesik was born and raised in Wibaux, MT, where he grew up working on the family farm and contributing to the family’s meat-cutting business. After graduating from Wibaux County High School, Ron pursued a degree in Agricultural Business at Dawson Community College in Glendive, MT. It was during this time that he met his wife, Deanette. Married for over 41 years, Ron and Deanette have three grown daughters and three grandchildren.

Ron’s oilfield career began in 1979 with Signal Oil Field Services, working on the floors and derricks. In 1980, he joined Baker Hughes in Glendive, MT, later transferring to the Dickinson, ND, office. After seven years of running tools, Ron advanced to District Manager. In 1994, his career brought him and his family to Williston, ND, when he was promoted to Area Manager overseeing districts in Glendive and Cutbank, MT, as well as Williston and Dickinson, ND.

During his tenure at Baker Hughes, Ron was selected for a special project to train staff on new software, a role that allowed him to travel extensively across the United States and even spend nine weeks in Scotland. After 31 successful years with Baker Hughes, Ron retired but quickly returned to the industry, joining Whiting Oil and Gas in 2010 as a Production Foreman and later as a Workover Rig Superintendent.

In 2018, Ron transitioned to Bruin E&P Partners LLC, which was later acquired by Enerplus. He then moved on to Grayson Mill Energy and is now serving as a Workover Rig Superintendent with Devon Energy. With decades of experience and a proven track record, Ron’s career exemplifies a deep commitment to the oil and gas industry.


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(Pictured left-right) Kathy Neset, Bob Reynolds, Monte Besler & Lynn Helms

Bob Reynolds has been a cornerstone of the oil and gas industry for decades, beginning his career with Halliburton in 1972. After gaining valuable experience in the service sector, including a couple of years at Baker Oil Tools from 1977 to 1979, Bob took a bold step into private business. In 1979, he partnered to establish Basin Tools and Service, which quickly became a dominant force in the Williston Basin market for many years.

In 2006, Bob and his partner sold their highly successful business to Weatherford. Recognizing Bob’s unmatched expertise and strong relationships in the Williston Basin, Weatherford asked him to stay on as a manager to guide their entry into this key region. Bob’s wealth of knowledge and loyal following were instrumental in their success.

In 2015, Bob accepted a retirement package from Weatherford but soon found himself back in the industry. Later that year, KLX approached him with an offer, and Bob contributed to their operations until his official retirement in 2019.

Today, Bob is fully retired, enjoying well-deserved recognition and respect from colleagues and peers who have had the honor of working alongside him. His legacy in the industry is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and impact.


October Monthly Member Networking Social Recap

Greg Salveson: Sharing His Knowledge and Life in the Oil Field

In the world of oil and gas, few people have the experience and local insight like Greg Salveson. A Sidney, MT native, Greg has spent his life in the oil field, witnessing the tremendous growth and evolution of the industry. With decades of hands-on knowledge, Greg’s career reflects not only his deep connection to the area but also his dedication to the community and industry that have shaped his life.

Greg has spent many years working in the patch, working his way up through the ranks, learning the ins and outs of the job, and becoming an expert in his field. Throughout his career, he’s had a front-row seat to the changes in the oil and gas sector, especially in the Bakken region. 

Greg’s journey and insight are particularly valuable to Kraken Resources, a company that has been making waves in the industry. Established by passionate and driven owners, Kraken Resources has rapidly grown over the years. With a clear vision and strong leadership, the company has expanded to employ over 100 people, contributing to the local economy and building strong ties within the community.

Greg’s story is a reminder of the hard work and dedication that have fueled the oil field’s growth and the importance of passing down that knowledge to keep the industry thriving for years to come. Kraken Resources, with its strong team and forward-thinking approach, is set to remain a key player in the oil field, thanks to leaders like Greg and the committed individuals who continue to drive the company forward.


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  • July 18, 2025 2:21 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Mark your calendar for the 34th Annual L.A.N.D. Golf Tournament, taking place on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the scenic Bully Pulpit Golf Course in Medora, ND. 

    Register your team or sponsor the event here.


  • July 18, 2025 2:21 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    The ND Oil PAC Golf Tournament will be on August 28, 2025, and this year it will be located at two golf course locations to accommodate more teams!  Teams will play at the Bully Pulpit Golf Course in Medora, ND, or the Pheasant Country Golf Course in South Heart, ND.  This is a fantastic opportunity to support the North Dakota Oil PAC. This tournament helps raise crucial funds for state-level candidates who advocate for oil and gas development and promote a business-friendly climate right here in North Dakota. The event is open to both North Dakota Petroleum Council members and non-members.  The tournament is capped at 144 participants, so register your team early.  https://www.ndoil.org/events/golftourney/


  • July 18, 2025 2:19 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    BSC and the BASC has scheduled the next session of the Oil and Gas Operator Program beginning August 18th. We have experienced a good start to the program, but we have much room for growth. It is intended for those who have zero experience and exposure to the industry to get started, as well as for those already in the industry.

     

    See the link below for information and registration link.

     

    What options are there to market this locally please? Perhaps with ND Job service if you have any contacts? We could have a Teams meeting with them to tell them about the opportunity? I found this effective in previous ventures.

     


  • October 28, 2024 10:41 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Dear Members,

    We are excited to announce our Holiday Shopping Campaign: the 12 Days of Shopping!

    From December 1st - December 12th, we will highlight participating members and other businesses in the community to SHOP LOCAL for their holiday gifts.

    More details to come! If you are interested in joining the campaign, please fill out the following Google Form: 

    Holiday Retail Campaign Interest Form (google.com)

    Have a great week,

    Erin Delaney

  • September 19, 2024 1:39 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Williston_flyin_northdakota

    Be part of a great community event that will benefit wish kids in the Williston area and across North Dakota!

    This event will be open to the public, accepting free-will donations, and include a showing of the animated movie Migration, a raffle, food, games, and more! Local pilots are also invited to fly-in and fly-out to enjoy all the fun. All proceeds support Make-A-Wish North Dakota.

    Saturday, September 21, 2024

    Williston Basin International Airport (Overland Aviation Hangar)

    https://wish.org/northdakota/williston-fly-movie-night


  • August 30, 2024 2:08 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)



    Traffic waits on Highway 1804 at the Marley Crossing near Trenton, North Dakota, on May 10, 2024. The North Dakota Department of Transportation has requested federal grants to help build an overpass over the tracks but so far has been unsuccessful. (Photo courtesy of Williams County)

    Fargo, ND, USA / The Mighty 790 KFGO | KFGO

    News

    Aug 26, 2024 | 7:41 AM


    By: Jeff Beach

    BISMARCK, N.D. (North Dakota Monitor) – A North Dakota utility regulator says a railroad overpass should get built on a key road before construction begins on a multi-billion dollar natural gas processing facility. 

    “I don’t know if it’s within our jurisdiction or even whether it’s fair and reasonable to require something like that,” Randy Christmann, chair of the Public Service Commission, said during a work session last week. 

    Christmann cited a letter from the head of the North Dakota Department of Transportation that said the DOT has been trying for three years to get a federal grant to build an overpass at Marley Crossing on North Dakota Highway 1804. 

    Read Full Article


  • August 14, 2024 2:06 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Posted August 14, 2024 – North Dakota Monitor

    The North Dakota Industrial Commission voted unanimously Wednesday to select a candidate who made his career in the oil and gas industry to be the state’s top oil regulator.

    Nathan Anderson is slated to take over as Department of Mineral Resources director on Sept. 16, an announcement from the Industrial Commission indicated.

    The Minot native works for Chevron and owns a company called 3B Investments. He holds a bachelor’s degree in geology from North Dakota State University.

    In his interview with the Industrial Commission, Anderson expressed a commitment to keeping North Dakota a competitive energy state.

    “One hundred percent, North Dakota will have a seat at the energy table — and a front row seat at that,” Anderson said at the July 30 meeting.

    Click here to read official announcement


  • July 15, 2024 7:51 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    The ND Chokecherry Festival is currently looking for volunteers! The festival is August 9th-10th at Davidson Park. If you are interested in helping out, you can visit this link to sign up: https://signup.com/go/yULNxEd

    Any help is greatly appreciated!


  • May 28, 2024 9:06 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    May be an image of motorcycle and text that says 'BRAS FOR A CAUSE MOTORCYCLE CHARITY FUN RUN SATURDAY, JUNE 15 KICKSTANDS UP AT 11 A.M. SHARP AT BUSTERS! REGISTRATION AT 10 WITH BREAKFAST AT BUSTERS ROUTE: GRENORA, TIOGA, RAY, EPPING & ENDING BACK AT BUSTER'S HИm KIYY 温場 AIATEVER Cora CANCER SUCKS! $20 PER RIDER/$10 PER PASSENGER QUESTIONS? boss Cars welcome! CONTACT 701-770-0045 officegradects BRAS mm for A CAUSE'

    Saturday June 15th

    Breakfast and Registration 10am @ Buster's

    Kickstands Up 11:00am @ Buster's

    $20 Per Rider

    $10 Per Passenger


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