Highlights & Awards
Advancing Strong: 2026 Round 1 Competition Success
The 2026 NAPE / SMU Energy Innovation Case Competition saw strong engagement from talented student teams across the U.S. in both undergraduate and graduate categories. Teams submitted high-quality, innovative materials addressing real energy challenges, impressing judges with strategic depth, creativity, and rigorous analysis.
Undergraduate Participants
Idaho State University
Montana Technological University
University of Oklahoma
Southern Methodist University
University of St. Thomas, Minnesota
Texas A&M University
University of Houston
University of Texas
University of Tulsa
Western Colorado University
West Virginia University
Undergraduate Level Advancers
Montana Technological University
Southern Methodist University
Texas A&M University
University of St. Thomas, Minnesota
Graduate Participants
Rice University
Southern Methodist University
Tulane University
The University of Texas at Dallas
University of Colorado Law School
Graduate Level Advancers
Southern Methodist University
The University of Texas at Dallas
2025 NAPE Competition
2025 NAPE Competition
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The 2025 NAPE Summit was held February 5–7 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas, bringing together thousands of energy professionals for the world’s largest energy marketplace. Over 450 companies participated, representing more than 3,500 organizations, providing a platform for networking, deals, and collaboration across the oil, gas, and energy sectors. This year, the Summit also introduced three new hubs—Offshore, Data Center, and Critical Minerals—highlighting emerging areas of the industry.
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As part of the Summit, the NAPE/SMU Energy Innovation Case Competition showcased student talent from top universities. Teams competed for a total of $40,000 in cash prizes, with Southern Methodist University’s Spindletop BBAs team taking first place in the undergraduate division, earning $10,000 to share among team members, while Western Colorado University’s Energy Management team secured third place. The competition celebrated the innovation, analytical skills, and creativity of the next generation of energy leaders.
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Beyond the competition, the Summit featured the NAPE Charities Celebration, including a performance by the Josh Abbott Band to support veterans and community initiatives. The 2025 NAPE Summit highlighted both professional achievements and student innovation, reinforcing its position as a premier venue for industry connection, collaboration, and recognition of emerging talent.
Awards
Event Highlights
Bringing creativity, strategy, and teamwork to the forefront of energy innovation.

