Jeff Cooper, right, poses with Lawton Mullins, president of the Virginia Oil & Gas Association, after Cooper received the Community & Industry Ambassador Award during the association’s annual summer meeting in Virginia Beach in June.
Buchanan County’s Jeff Cooper has been recognized for nearly three decades of leadership in Virginia’s oil and gas industry, receiving the Virginia Oil & Gas Association’s Community and Ambassador Award during the organization’s annual summer meeting in Virginia Beach.
The Community & Industry Ambassador Award is presented by the Virginia Oil & Gas Association (VOGA) to individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership, community involvement and a commitment to serving as ambassadors for Virginia’s oil and gas industry.
Cooper, a resident of the Pilgrims Knob section of Buchanan County, serves as production manager for Diversified Energy and also represents the Garden District on the Buchanan County Board of Supervisors. Over the course of his career, he has become known not only for his work in the energy industry but also for his dedication to the communities he serves.
Receiving the honor, Cooper reflected on the career that has shaped much of his life.
“Receiving the Community and Ambassador Award from the Virginia Oil and Gas Association is truly humbling, and I am incredibly grateful for this recognition,” Cooper said.
“When I began my career in the oil and gas industry nearly 30 years ago, I never imagined the opportunities, friendships, and experiences that would come from it. What started as a job became a lifelong passion and a chance to serve the communities and people who make this region such a special place.”
Cooper credited the many people who have supported him throughout his career, saying their encouragement played an important role in reaching this milestone.
“I want to thank my coworkers, mentors, friends, and the many others who have supported me over the years,” Cooper said. “Most importantly, I want to thank my family for their love, encouragement, and understanding throughout the long days and challenges that often come with this profession.”
Cooper said the recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the relationships he has built and the opportunity he has had to give back to the communities where he has lived and worked.
“The oil and gas industry has been very good to me and my family, and I am proud to have spent nearly three decades contributing to an industry that provides jobs, energy, and economic growth for our region,” he said. “To be recognized for community involvement and ambassadorship is especially meaningful because building relationships and giving back have always been among the most rewarding parts of my career.”
Looking ahead, Cooper said he remains committed to serving both the industry and the people of Southwest Virginia.
“I am honored by this award, grateful for the people who have walked this journey with me, and excited to continue serving our communities and our industry in the years ahead,” he said.
