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OTC 2026 Executive Dialogue Series

The OTC Executive Dialogue Series is OTC’s most exclusive, invitation-only speaking platform, reserved for C-suite executives, senior industry leaders, and government officials shaping the future of offshore energy. This premier forum convenes decision-makers for candid, high-level conversations that influence strategy, policy, and investment across the global energy landscape. 

Distinguished by its peer-to-peer format and limited participation, the Executive Dialogue Series is designed for open, substantive exchange among leaders navigating the industry’s most consequential shifts—from digital transformation and breakthrough technologies to regulatory priorities, and corporate evolution. Discussions draw on real-world experience and current policy perspectives, offering insights that extend well beyond the conference stage.

Participation in the OTC Executive Dialogue Series reflects both leadership and influence, providing a rare opportunity to engage directly with the executives and policymakers driving progress, innovation, and long-term direction in offshore energy.

Monday, 4 May
1100–1200

Kyle Haustveit

Speaker
Kyle Haustveit
16th Assistant Secretary
U.S. Department of Energy's
Office of Hydrocarbons and
Geothermal Energy Office

Jennifer Miskimins

Moderator
Dr. Jennifer L. Miskimins
Professor and the
Department Head,
Petroleum Engineering
Department
Colorado School of Mines

Tuesday, 5 May
0930–1030

Exploration in the Demand Decade

The “Demand Decade” refers to the projected 2026–2035 period in which global energy demand is expected to grow at an unprecedented pace, driven by AI growth, data center expansion, cloud computing, electrification, and industrial development across the Global South. Forecasts indicate that electricity demand from data centers could double by 2030, with AI related energy use increasing severalfold over the same period. This surge underscores the need for an all of the above energy strategy, where oil, gas, and other sources play complementary roles in ensuring global economic growth, security, and reliability.


In this environment, exploration is strategically essential, enabling secure supply, supporting diversification, and strengthening global economic resilience. The exploration sector is therefore central to navigating and powering the Demand Decade.

Succinct Summary of Discussion Themes

  • Conditions that enhance the competitiveness of frontier exploration
  • Exploration’s role in meeting global energy needs while supporting environmental stewardship
  • Technologies that strengthen investment in resilient, lower‑carbon, lower‑cost resources
  • Managing above‑ground risks and enabling factors for successful exploration
  • The importance of fiscal stability and long‑term policy alignment
  • The role of effective partnerships across industry, government, and technology sectors
  • Improving societal understanding of exploration’s contribution to energy security and global development

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john ardill

John Ardill
Vice President
Exploration & New Ventures
ExxonMobil

Tuesday, 5 May
1230–1330

Charting the Next Chapter of U.S. Offshore Energy Leadership

The Executive Dialogue session will feature a forward-looking and candid conversation led by the Acting Directors of the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM). Together, they will explore the impactful steps taken over the past year to strengthen U.S. energy dominance, highlighting regulatory streamlining, offshore safety enhancements, and expanded access to American energy and mineral resources. The session will also chart the course ahead, offering insights into upcoming policy priorities, technological integration, and collaborative strategies designed to ensure continued energy leadership. Attendees can expect a transparent and strategic discussion that sets the tone for the offshore energy sector’s next chapter.

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megan carr

Megan Carr
Associate Director of the
Strategic Resources Program
BSEE

Bryan

Bryan Domangue
Gulf of America OCS
Region Director
BSEE

Matt Giacona

Matt Giacona
Acting Director
BOEM

Kenneth Stevens

Kenneth Stevens
Acting Director
(Principal Deputy Director)
BSEE

Tuesday, 5 May
1400–1500

Venture Capital at OTC? The How and Why of Investing in Game-Changing Offshore Technologies

Join a candid fireside chat with leading venture capital executives from private and corporate funds as they discuss how investment decisions are made in offshore energy. The conversation will explore where breakthrough innovation begins, how risk is evaluated in a capital-intensive industry, and what investors expect from founders and operators. Panelists will also share insights on technology pilots, adoption timelines, and offer a lighthearted take on venture capital culture.

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Kema Anbarci

Kemal Anbarci
GM Venture Capital
Managing Venture Executive
Chevron Technology Ventures

George Coyle

George Coyle
Managing Partner
Energy Innovation Capital

Wednesday, 6 May
1100–1200

John Dabbar

Speaker
John Dabbar
Executive Director
National Petroleum Council

Countdown to OTC 2026!

early bird pricing

Early-Bird Registration is Officially Open!

Join us for four high-impact days focused on technical excellence, innovation, and collaboration across the offshore energy sector.

Early bird rates won’t last.

Register by 2 March and save up to USD 200 with early-bird registration.

 

 

REGISTER EARLY AND PLAN YOUR OTC EXPERIENCE!