Press Release: AABE

Washington, DC - The American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE) is proud to announce its annual conference and to celebrate 31 years as an advocate for minority involvement in energy issues, policies and technologies.

"Advancing the Understanding of Energy…from local to global" is the theme for the 2008 conference. AABE was formed in July 1977 to represent Blacks and other minorities who were under-represented in shaping energy policy for America during the oil embargo of the time. AABE’s founder, Clarke Watson, believed there was a strong correlation between energy resource development, economic growth, and expanding opportunities for disadvantaged minorities to participate more fully in the U.S. economic system. During the current energy crisis, AABE remains an active force in supporting renewable portfolio standards; reducing global warming; developing alternate sources of energy; and promoting diversity in the workplace.

The conference will be held at the Hilton Americas from April 15 – 18 in Houston, Texas. The conference keynote speakers are Peter Robertson, Vice-Chairman of the Board for the Chevron Corporation and Dr. Randall Pinkett, President & CEO of BCT Partners and winner of TV’s The Apprentice Season 4. Guest speakers that are confirmed include Presidents & CEOs of utilities such as Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Entergy Nuclear, TXU, AEP and the Texas Railroad Commission. Representatives of NASA, FERC, BPA, OBAG and the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission are also invited panelists. Topics include climate change; emerging technologies; supplier diversity; and business strategies for the U.S. & international markets. A youth empowerment forum will also be held during the conference.

All guests are welcome. Registration information can be found on www.aabe.org or by calling (202) 371-9530.

AABE is a national association of energy professionals founded and dedicated to ensure the input of African Americans and other minorities into the discussion and development of energy policies, regulations, R&D technologies and environmental issues. More information about AABE and its positions may be found on it website: www.aabe.org.

American Association of Blacks in Energy
1625 K Street, Suite 405
Washington, DC 20006
info at aabe.org