The Society of Professional Engineers' Gulf Coast Section (SPE-GCS) hopes to form a new group in 2015 to examine shale technologies, and collaborate with industry professionals on ways to make shale more sustainable.

It's yet to be determined how group participants will meet, but Thames notes it will be similar to other SPE Study Groups, with monthly meetings, lunch and learns, networking, sporting events, etc. In-person meetings will be in Houston, TX.

If you are interested in getting involved in this new group as a supporter or in a leadership position, contact Kim at kim.thames@bhpbilliton.com to have her add your name and SPE member number to the petition.