API names Lance West as Vice President of Federal Government Relations

(WO) — The American Petroleum Institute (API) named Lance West as its Vice President of Federal Government Relations. He will lead the organization’s engagement and advocacy with Congress and federal agencies. West joins API from the office of West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, where he served as chief of staff.

“Lance joins API at a critical time for our industry,” API president and CEO Mike Sommers said. “His position on Capitol Hill placed him at the center of some of our country’s more important legislative debates, and his deep relationships on both sides of the aisle will be a tremendous asset to our organization and the industry we serve.”

West previously served as chief of staff to Democratic U.S. Senator Joe Manchin from West Virginia since 2019. Prior to that, West was deputy staff director for the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources where he provided oversight and legislative support for issues ranging from energy development, parks and public lands, water, and the territories.

West also previously directed federal affairs for the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). He is a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to help shape a commonsense energy future that benefits all Americans,” West said. “API and its members are leading the world with innovative solutions to ensure we have reliable, affordable, and cleaner energy the country and world needs. More personally, I look forward to working with leaders Mike Sommers and Amanda Eversole, and the great team at API to strengthen our nation’s energy security with a strong, viable U.S. oil and natural gas industry.”