Business Insider recently sat down with Juddson Culpepper, Co-Founder of Forza Resources LLC and a highly experienced land services broker with over seven years of expertise in oil and gas management, GIS implementation, and strategic acquisitions across various sectors. With a solid educational foundation from Texas A&M University and an impressive portfolio of ventures, Culpepper offers a unique perspective on leadership, risk, and the evolving landscape of the energy industry.
What’s your approach to leadership, and how has it evolved over time?
I always aim to set my team up for success. My goal is to build a team that works well together. As I began managing larger teams—like overseeing more than 200 independent landmen and facilitating over $60 million in acquisitions across Texas—I realized leadership is more about empowering people than just directing them. Managing such a large, diverse group required me to cultivate trust, ensure open communication, and foster a collaborative environment. This means getting things organized, really listening to everyone, and making sure they feel good about what they’re doing.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career, and what did you learn from them?
I’ve had the chance to work with some really talented people, but the person who influenced my career the most is Dr. John Crompton from Texas A&M. He was my mentor during grad school, and I helped him write and edit papers. Dr. Crompton showed me how important it is to do solid research, be thorough, and look at problems from different angles. What really stuck with me is how he balanced being detailed and academic while still finding practical solutions.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken in your career, and how did it pay off?
Starting my company. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do right after graduation. But through networking, I met some amazing people. My business partner and I decided to bet on ourselves and go for it. It wasn’t always easy, but it worked out. We were able to branch out into different areas, like investing in oil wells through Oxbow Holdings and getting involved in renewable energy with Altus Acquisitions.
What trends do you see shaping the future of your industry, and how are you preparing for them?
The energy industry is changing fast, with renewable energy taking center stage. Through Altus Acquisitions, we’re adding solar projects to what we do. While oil and gas are still important, the future also includes alternative energy sources. Another big shift is how we’re using technology, like GIS and data analytics, to manage resources better. Plus, technology is helping us connect buyers and sellers more easily.
What habits or routines do you follow that contribute to your success?
Finding a good balance between work and personal life. I always make time for my family, and I love being outdoors. Whether I’m hiking or doing work on my properties, getting out of the office helps me recharge.
What’s next for you? Any exciting projects or goals on the horizon that you can share?
I’m working to grow Oxbow Holdings by acquiring more interests in areas that haven’t been fully developed yet. Our goal is to stay ahead of the curve in energy, whether it’s oil, gas, or renewable resources.
Key Takeaways
Juddson Culpepper’s leadership in the energy industry shows he’s great at handling challenges and spotting opportunities. He’s focused on diversifying, moving from just oil and gas to also including renewable energy, which keeps him and Forza Resources ahead of the curve. By staying flexible and thinking ahead, Culpepper is ready to keep pushing for growth and success as the energy world changes.
