John T. Leftwich facts for kids

John T. Leftwich, Jr. is a geologist who studies petroleum. Petroleum geology is about finding and understanding oil and natural gas deep underground.

Early Life and Education

John T. Leftwich, Jr. earned several degrees during his education. He got his first degree from Virginia State University in 1969. Later, he earned a master's degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1973. He completed his studies with a PhD from Pennsylvania State University in 1993.

A Change in Focus

When he started college, Leftwich first studied biology. However, he took an Earth Science class and found it very interesting. His professor, Mack Gipson, encouraged him to study geology instead. This led Leftwich to change his main subject.

Making History

In 1969, John T. Leftwich, Jr. became the first person to graduate with a geology degree from Virginia State College. This was a big achievement. He was also one of the first African Americans in the United States to earn a geology degree. He was the seventh African American to do so.

Advanced Studies

After getting his first degree, Leftwich went to the University of Massachusetts Amherst. There, he worked with Professor Randolph Bromery and earned his master's degree.

Career in Geology

After finishing his master's degree, Leftwich began working in the oil and gas industry. He first worked for Exxon, which later became ExxonMobil. He gained valuable experience in finding and extracting oil.

Return to School

In the late 1980s, oil prices dropped significantly. This made Leftwich decide to go back to school. He wanted to earn a doctorate degree. He studied structural geology at Pennsylvania State University. He completed his PhD in 1993, working with Terry Engelder.

University and Industry Work

Right after getting his PhD, Leftwich joined Old Dominion University. He was a special professor there, supported by the US Department of Energy. In 1997, he returned to the oil and gas industry. He worked for Shell Oil Company and later for Halliburton starting in 2008.

Important Research

Leftwich's PhD research focused on understanding how certain types of rock, called shale, behave deep underground. He studied how these rocks can hold unusual amounts of pressure. His work helped geologists better understand how to find oil and gas.

Honors and Community Work

John T. Leftwich, Jr. has been recognized for his important contributions to geology. He also cares deeply about helping his community.

Leading Geologists

Leftwich was one of the people who helped start the National Association of Black Geologists and Geophysicists (NABGG). This group supports Black geologists and geophysicists. He was the president of NABGG from 1984 to 1990. The group later changed its name to the National Association of Black Geoscientists.

Special Recognition

In 2009, Leftwich received the Bromery Award for Minorities. This award came from the Geological Society of America (GSA). It recognized his important work and his efforts to support diversity in geology.

Words of Wisdom

When he accepted the Bromery Award, Leftwich shared some advice. He said that being good at your job is important. But he also said that having integrity and good values is even more valuable. He encouraged people to care about others more than themselves.

Helping the Community

Beyond his scientific work, Leftwich has spent over 20 years volunteering. He has helped many schools, from elementary schools to community colleges. He believes in giving back to his community.