Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Mark Varhaug as chair of the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists. In addition, Abbott named Eric Anderson, Ph.D., Rusty Branch, P.G., and Jeremy Ransom to serve on the board with terms ending February 1, 2031.
The Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists is responsible for setting fees related to applications, examinations, licensure, and renewals for geoscience professionals in the state. The board also determines examination fees based on the costs involved in preparing and administering these tests.
Mark Varhaug, who will serve as chair, is president of Beacon Hill Energy and brings over four decades of geology experience. He has been a member of the board since August 2018. Varhaug is affiliated with several professional organizations including the Society of Petroleum Engineers and serves on the Executive Committee for the Division of Professional Affairs at the American Association of Petroleum Geologists. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Southern Methodist University.
Eric Anderson is president of Mitigation Resources of North America and certified in soil science by the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists. He is involved with groups such as the Ecological Restoration Business Association and James F. Taylor Masonic Lodge 169. Anderson earned degrees from Stephen F. Austin State University and North Carolina State University.
Rusty Branch serves as vice president and senior geoscientist at Gehrig, Inc., holding certification from the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists. His leadership extends to organizations like Scouting America (formerly Boys Scouts of America), Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists, and American Society of Civil Engineers Geo-Institute. Branch has participated in Fort Worth’s Community Emergency Response Team and holds multiple academic degrees from Tarleton State University, Baylor University, and UT Arlington.
Jeremy Ransom works as strategic relationship director at Bluespring Wealth Partners. His community involvement includes serving on boards for Hospice Austin, Make-A-Wish Central and South Texas, and The Legacy Ranch Youth Football and Cheer. Ransom served in the United States Marine Corps before earning degrees from Texas Tech University, Baylor University, UT Austin, and Mitchell Hamline School of Law.
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