Oklahoma's energy sector is poised for a new chapter of leadership as Governor Kevin Stitt appoints Jeff Starling, a veteran with over twenty years of experience in the energy industry, as the state's Secretary of Energy & Environment, as reported by the State of Oklahoma's official news release.
"Jeff’s extensive experience in both the private and public sectors provides unique insights that make him well qualified to guide our state’s energy strategy,” Stitt announced on the Office of Governor website, emphasizing Starling's qualifications for a role that will steer Oklahoma towards continued national leadership in energy innovation and economic expansion; this new appointment marks a critical juncture for a state already deeply invested in its energy industry. Starling himself expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "It’s an exciting moment in Oklahoma, and our energy industry is a major driver of our state’s success and one we should build upon as we continue to move forward."
With a resume that spans significant legal and operational roles, including recent stints as chief legal and administrative officer at Lagoon Water Midstream and assistant general counsel at Devon Energy Corp., Starling brings to the table a wealth of industry knowledge. His background is marked by both litigation management and support for operational business units; his experience is enhanced by his earlier work in legislative assistance to former U.S. Senator John W. Warner and partnership at a prominent law firm.
Reflecting his readiness for the public service role, Starling has engaged in wide-ranging civic initiatives, where recently he chaired the Legal and Labor Reform Committee of the State Chamber of Oklahoma and he continues to make impacts through his service on the state’s Task Force for the Study of Business Courts and as co-chair of the 2025 Allied Arts campaign. His commitment extends to various leadership roles in cultural and charitable organizations within Oklahoma City, clearly demonstrating a bond not only to industry but also to community.
A native of Danville, Virginia, Starling's academic credentials hail from Wake Forest University where he earned both his undergraduate and law degrees. Oklahoma City is now the home he shares with his wife, Sally, and their daughters, where outside of his professional and civic life, he finds solace in hiking and travel.
