Railroad Commissioner Craddick, Former Railroad Commissioner Smitherman Team Up for UT Energy Law Class

AUSTIN – Railroad Commissioner Christi Craddick joined former Commissioner and University of Texas School of Law adjunct professor, Barry Smitherman, for a guest-lecture on Texas energy regulation last night. The semester-long class focuses on the law, regulations and public policy that are the foundation for the successful development, extraction, and harnessing of Texas' energy related natural resources.

“As a former UT graduate now overseeing the state’s top energy agency, I know firsthand how invaluable it is to students to have a practical understanding of energy development and the Commission’s regulatory structure,” Craddick said. “I am honored to serve as a resource for students looking to build their future in the energy industry. It is truly the most rewarding part of my job.”

“The dedication and work of my former colleague, Barry Smitherman in providing college students with a real-world, in-depth understanding of Texas’ energy industry is a noble effort and critical to the continued development of the industry’s future workforce,” Craddick said. “Barry’s tireless work educating the next generation of attorneys and energy industry professionals is just as important as his time serving Texas as Railroad Commissioner, and I am proud to assist him in this effort.”

Christi Craddick was elected statewide by the people of Texas in November 2012 to serve a six-year term as Texas Railroad Commissioner. A native of Midland, Christi is an attorney specializing in oil and gas, water, tax issues, electric deregulation and environmental policy.