Scott Sheffield, the Texas-born oil executive credited as a key figure in the American shale revolution, recently provided insight into his life on his 2,300-acre Forked Lightning Ranch in San Miguel, New Mexico, which he purchased more than a decade ago from actress and environmental activist Jane Fonda. The property, characterized by its diverse wildlife and proximity to the Pecos River, offers a stark contrast to Sheffield’s long career in the oil and gas industry.
Sheffield, 74, founded Pioneer Natural Resources in 1997 and is recognized alongside figures like George P. Mitchell and Harold Hamm for transforming the United States into the world’s largest producer of oil and gas through advances in fracking technology. In 2023, he sold Pioneer to ExxonMobil for $60 billion and stepped down as chief executive for the second time, though he remains active in the energy sector through corporate boards such as Tamboran Resources, an Australian natural gas company supported by his son, Bryan.
Despite his success in fossil fuels, Sheffield acknowledges the reality of climate change, noting warming temperatures observed firsthand on his ranch. He describes rising local temperatures and dwindling water supplies affecting regional reservoirs as part of long-term shifts. However, he expresses caution about the timing and scale of climate impacts, questioning calls for an immediate ban on fossil fuels and criticizing what he terms “fanatics” on both sides of the climate debate. Sheffield emphasizes the continued need for affordable energy, suggesting that overly rapid transitions away from fossil fuels could be detrimental.
Sheffield’s ranch home, a 9,500-square-foot Spanish colonial-style residence called River House, incorporates energy-efficient upgrades while retaining many elements from Fonda’s ownership. The couple has preserved distinctive furnishings and artwork, some reflecting aspects of American and indigenous history, alongside features added to accommodate their family and guests. The estate also includes recreational facilities and philanthropic ventures, such as tennis and pickleball courts, and a tennis complex in nearby Santa Fe aimed at youth development.
His autobiography, *From Tehran to the Permian: Leading the Shale Revolution and My Fight for Energy Independence*, explores themes of American energy security, leadership, and corporate culture. Born in Dallas but raised in Iran, where his father worked as a petroleum engineer, Sheffield credits his international upbringing with shaping his business acumen and understanding of global energy politics. His experiences include witnessing the political upheaval in Iran during the 1979 revolution, which underscored the strategic importance of energy independence for U.S. policymakers.
Sheffield also discusses his contentious relationship with ExxonMobil following the company’s acquisition of Pioneer. He alleges that Exxon and the Federal Trade Commission, then led by Democrats, conspired to prevent his appointment to Exxon’s board, citing accusations that Sheffield had sought to influence OPEC members to restrict oil output. The FTC’s 2024 order barring him from the board was later revoked under a Republican-led commission, but Sheffield indicated he no longer wished to join what he called Exxon’s “patsy” board.
Politically, Sheffield supported former President Donald Trump’s efforts to promote U.S. energy dominance in the 2024 election cycle. He acknowledges recent geopolitical developments, including the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and escalated tensions with Iran, have contributed to rising oil prices and increased profits for energy companies. Yet, he warns that high prices could reduce demand by accelerating shifts toward alternatives like electric vehicles.
While avoiding detailed criticism of Trump’s policies or military actions, Sheffield expressed hope for democratic governance in both Iran and Venezuela, noting a personal desire to visit Iran again. Reflecting on his career, he stated, “No regrets. I love the oil and gas industry. And I wouldn’t give it up for anything.”