John Whitmire
John Whitmire
John Whitmire earned his Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from New Mexico State University in 1964. He credited his teachers for much of his later success and expressed his gratitude by significantly supporting the university’s academic programs. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree from NMSU in 1995.
Whitmire was a highly respected leader in the energy industry, with a career spanning more than 50 years. He spent the majority of his professional life with Phillips Petroleum Company, where he worked for over 30 years, rising from Driller to Executive Vice President and Director. After retiring from Phillips, he became Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Union Texas Petroleum. He later served as President of Hunt Oil Company of Canada. Whitmire’s leadership extended to CONSOL Inc. and CONSOL Energy, where he served as Chairman of the Board from 1999 until mid‑2013.