Jared Clarke isn’t just a leader in the energy industry—he’s someone who has worked tirelessly to shape the next generation of energy professionals in Texas. From co-founding Young Professionals in Energy (YPE) chapters in Tyler and College Station to serving as a key figure in Fort Worth’s ADAM group, Jared has dedicated much of his career to creating opportunities for young professionals to grow and succeed. His journey from Kansas and North Texas to becoming a founder and partner at Forza Resources reflects a deep passion for not only the land he grew up around but also for helping others navigate the complexities of the energy sector. Jared’s story is one of hard work, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to building a brighter future for Texas’s energy leaders.
Tell us about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
I grew up in Kansas and North Texas, where the wide-open spaces sparked my interest in how land is managed and valued. This interest led me to the energy industry. At Texas A&M, I studied Human Resources Development, and I also took courses in Criminology and History at Sam Houston State. These experiences helped me build leadership and problem-solving skills, shaping my career in energy.
What was the pivotal “aha” moment that defined your leadership or business approach?
The moment everything clicked for me was when I helped start the Young Professionals in Energy (YPE) chapters in Tyler and College Station, Texas. I saw that young people in the energy industry needed a place to connect and learn from each other. That experience showed me how important networking is and that leadership means helping others grow. Since then, I’ve focused on encouraging collaboration, both with YPE and at Forza Resources.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced, and how did you overcome them to achieve success?
One of my biggest challenges was earning clients’ trust, especially in a competitive industry like oil and gas. As a young entrepreneur, people often doubted my experience. I had to prove myself by delivering reliable results and showing I understood the details of land management. Another challenge was managing growth. As Forza Resources grew, we needed better systems to handle more data and projects. I learned that overcoming challenges requires persistence, flexibility, and a strong team to count on.
How has your leadership or innovation made a significant impact on your industry or community?
By helping create YPE chapters and being involved with the Fort Worth ADAM group, I’ve supported the growth of many young leaders in the energy industry. YPE offers networking and mentorship, while ADAM Fort Worth helps professionals in acquisitions, divestitures, and mergers connect and share ideas. To me, leadership isn’t just about personal success, but about lifting up the people around you.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs or leaders looking to make their mark in your industry?
Stay curious and keep learning. The energy industry is always changing, and knowing the latest trends can give you an advantage. Build strong relationships because trust and teamwork are key. Surround yourself with people who share your passion. Finally, be patient. Success takes time, but with determination and a clear goal, you’ll achieve it.
Can you highlight a specific project or initiative you’ve led that showcases your innovation and leadership?
One project that stands out is the creation of our custom land management system at Forza Resources. As we expanded, we needed a way to handle large land projects in different states. This system helps us organize data, communicate better with clients, and make quicker decisions. It’s been a game-changer and has set a new standard for efficient land management in the energy industry.
Key Takeaways
In learning more about Jared Clarke, it’s clear that his journey is about more than just personal success—it’s about making a lasting impact on the energy industry and shaping the future of its leaders. From starting YPE chapters in Fort Worth, Texas, to guiding Forza Resources, Jared has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for others. His dedication to fostering collaboration and mentorship shows his commitment to the next generation of energy professionals. Jared’s story reminds us that true leadership is not just about achieving your own goals, but about helping others rise and succeed. His passion for the industry and his willingness to share knowledge are shaping Texas’s energy future, one entrepreneur at a time.
