Honoring Sherry Stephens Blanks: A legacy of leadership and service

The Energy Workforce & Technology Council has shared news of the passing of Sherry Stephens Blanks, former President of the Petroleum Equipment and Services Association (PESA), now the Energy Workforce & Technology Council. Sherry passed away on Monday, December 30, 2024, after a courageous year-long battle with illness. The EWTC released the following statement: 

Sherry’s 35-year tenure at PESA was marked by her unwavering dedication to advancing the energy services sector. She played a pivotal role in the U.S. Department of Commerce’s NAFTA negotiations, helped establish the Houston Independent School District Energy Academies, and conceived, created the curriculum and directed the Foreign Service Officers Energy Training Seminars for the U.S. Departments of State, Energy, and Commerce. Her vision and contributions have left a lasting legacy on the industry and its future leaders.

Sherry was deeply committed to the energy industry, serving on the boards of the World Trade Association and the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum. She was also a member of the Petroleum Club of Houston.

Graveside services will be held on January 3, 2025, at Rosedale Cemetery in Ada, Oklahoma, at 2 PM.

As we mourn her passing, let us also celebrate Sherry’s extraordinary contributions to our industry and the countless lives she touched. May her legacy will continue to inspire us all.