Railroad Commission Names Brandon Harris Chief Information Officer

AUSTIN ––The Railroad Commission has appointed Brandon Harris as Chief Information Officer over the agency’s Information Technology Division to help oversee efforts to increase efficiencies at Texas’ top energy regulator through new technology initiatives. Harris’ first day on the job is today.

Harris will oversee the Commission’s continuing efforts to use information technology to enhance the agency’s regulatory functions, which include moving all Commission regulatory forms online. Currently, oil and gas operators can file many forms, such as drilling permits, production reports and well completions online, but there are many other forms that the Commission plans to move online to help reduce its reliance on paper mailings and manual data entry.

Harris is coming to the Railroad Commission from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, where he has been director of the Information Resources Division for the last three years. Before becoming director, he managed strategic planning at TCEQ, and since 1999, he has helped TCEQ with environmental-specific IT programs including air quality and water quality. Harris began his career with the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, and he is a graduate of Southeastern Louisiana University with a B.S. in Biological Sciences.

Chairman Barry Smitherman said, “With his scientific background as well as expertise as the former information resources director at our sister environmental agency, Brandon will help guide us in our ongoing efforts to enhance our IT systems.”

Commissioner David Porter said, “One of my major goals as Commissioner has been to update our technology and software to assist our staff in more effectively overseeing our Texas operators, and I’m glad Brandon is on-board.”

Commissioner Buddy Garcia said, “Having the honor of also serving at the TCEQ, I know that Brandon will provide the expertise needed to help advance our technology initiatives to boost our environmental stewardship while not hindering our regulated industries’ vital work.”

About the Railroad Commission

Established in 1891, the Railroad Commission of Texas is the oldest regulatory agency in the state. The Commission has a long and proud history of service to both Texas and to the nation, including more than 90 years regulating the oil and gas industry. Additionally, the Commission promotes research and education on the use of alternative fuels and has jurisdiction over gas utility, surface mining and pipeline industries. Our mission is to serve Texas by our stewardship of natural resources and the environment, our concern for personal and community safety, and our support of enhanced development and economic vitality for the benefit of Texans. To learn more, please visit http://www.rrc.state.tx.us/.