Juddson Culpepper has spent over seven years helping companies navigate the complex world of land services in the oil and gas industry. With a strong background in managing large projects, he’s built a reputation for making complicated processes easier for his clients. His skills in using technology like GIS and understanding the rules and regulations of the industry have made him a go-to expert.
Juddson attended Texas A&M University, where he earned a Master’s degree in Natural Resource Development and a Bachelor’s in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Science. His academic achievements, like graduating with a perfect GPA, have played a key role in his success. Starting his career as a Field Landman in 2008, Juddson has since co-founded several companies, including Petra Land and Forza Resources. These companies focus on helping clients handle large land acquisitions and use technology to track properties more efficiently.
In this interview, Juddson talks about his career, the lessons he’s learned, and what advice he has for those looking to follow in his footsteps in the oil and gas industry.
What motivated you to start your company, and how did you choose your industry?
My passion for land services started during my time at Texas A&M University, where I studied Recreation, Park, and Tourism Science. What began as an interest in managing land soon grew into a fascination with the oil and gas industry. I saw how important landmen are to keeping energy companies on track, making sure leases are handled, regulations are followed, and resources are managed properly.
Starting my own company felt like the next step. I noticed that many companies lacked a modern approach, so I wanted to fill that gap by combining advanced GIS technology with traditional land services. That’s why I co-founded Petra Land and later Forza Resources. My goal was to lead a team that could not only handle negotiations but also use cutting-edge tools to make land acquisitions and leases smoother for our clients.
What were the biggest challenges you faced in the early stages of your career, and how did you overcome them?
When I first started, one of the hardest things was earning the trust of clients in a fast-paced, competitive industry. In land services, especially in oil and gas, trust is crucial. Clients are relying on you to handle multimillion-dollar deals that can make or break a drilling project. I knew I had to show them I could manage these important tasks effectively.
Another challenge was understanding the complex rules that govern land use and energy development. Early in my career, I put a lot of effort into learning the regulations and staying on top of compliance. I overcame these challenges by always learning, building connections, and seeking advice from experienced mentors. Introducing GIS technology helped too, as it allowed me to provide clients with data they could trust, which boosted our credibility.
What was your approach to building a customer base when you first started?
Building a customer base was all about building relationships and earning trust. I started by reaching out to people I had worked with as a Field Landman and people from my college days. I also joined groups like the American Association of Professional Landmen (AAPL) to meet more people and find potential clients.
But it wasn’t just about meeting people—I made sure we delivered top-notch service every time. Whether it was a quick title search or a big project, we gave it our full attention. Our reputation spread through word of mouth, and that helped us grow.
Co-founding the East Texas chapter of Young Professionals in Energy (YPE) also helped us get our name out there. It allowed me to connect with others who were new to the industry, and those relationships eventually turned into business opportunities.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting out in your industry, what would it be?
If you’re starting in the land services industry, focus on the basics first. It’s easy to want to dive into big projects, but you need to understand things like title work, lease agreements, and following regulations. Having that strong foundation is key before taking on more responsibilities.
Don’t overlook the power of technology, either. The oil and gas world is becoming more data-driven, so getting comfortable with tools like GIS, database management, and compliance software will set you apart. Clients love when you can give them accurate, up-to-date information to help with their decisions.
And finally, build strong relationships. Whether it’s with clients, coworkers, or mentors, the people around you can really shape your career. Stay humble, listen, and learn from those who have been in the industry longer. Their experience will guide you through the ups and downs.
Key Takeaways
Juddson Culpepper shows how combining technical know-how with strong relationships can lead to success in the oil and gas industry. Starting as a Field Landman and now leading companies like Forza Resources and Saline Creek Oil and Gas, he has always focused on using technology and building connections to stand out. Juddson’s expertise in land services and his innovative mindset continue to shape the energy sector. Along the way, he’s also mentoring the next generation, offering valuable lessons for anyone aiming to succeed in this fast-changing field.
