Cynthia Quarterman to Join Atlantic Council Energy Program as Distinguished Senior Fellow

The Atlantic Council today named Cynthia Quarterman, the only person to head two major US energy regulatory agencies, as a distinguished fellow. Quarterman, who has been serving as the administrator of the US Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), will join the Council next month. She will serve as the Atlantic Council’s leading expert on responsible energy development.

Quarterman has been a key policymaker in energy development, safety, and transportation since the Clinton Administration. Throughout her expert handling of complicated issues, including deepwater oil and gas exploration and production; royalty collection; liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities; and the truck, rail, and pipeline transportation of the nation’s new energy bounty, Quarterman has been a steadfast advocate for responsible energy development and prudent regulations.

“Having held some of the toughest jobs in government, Cynthia is known as a problem solver with a deep knowledge of the commercial and technological aspects of the energy industry,” said Frederick Kempe, Atlantic Council president and CEO. “Her integrity, experience, and grace under pressure are world class, and we look forward to having her join our team.”

Quarterman served as the head of PHMSA during the Obama Administration and as director of the former Minerals Management Service during the Clinton Administration. Quarterman has also served in numerous other capacities within the Department of the Interior, and was a member of the Obama Administration Transition Team at the Department of Energy. In addition to extensive experience within the federal government, Quarterman was also previously a partner in the Washington office of Steptoe & Johnson LLP, where her practice focused on issues related to transportation and energy.

“I am enthusiastic about helping the Atlantic Council secure our future by meeting global energy challenges through innovative strategy, security, and governance initiatives,” said Quarterman. “We are at a moment in history when we can democratize access to energy if we can help governments develop their resources safely. I look forward to assisting the Council in bringing our best practices in responsible energy development to our friends and allies abroad.”

The Atlantic Council is currently transforming its energy program to focus on tomorrow’s energy challenges by addressing three key areas: global energy security, the responsible development of energy resources, and strategic foresight. Quarterman’s vast experience will be invaluable to the Council’s commitment to devising realistic solutions to critical energy challenges.

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