Charleston, W.Va. (WVDN) — The Gas and Oil Association of West Virginia (GO-WV) announced today that longtime President Charlie Burd will retire in 2027, following decades of exceptional service to the state’s natural gas and oil industry. A highly respected and trusted leader, Burd has guided the organization through years of growth, a successful merger, and leaves behind a legacy marked by impact, integrity, and excellence.
“Charlie’s leadership and devotion have been nothing short of extraordinary. He’s been a tireless advocate for West Virginia’s oil and natural gas industry, a mentor to many, and a true believer in the power of our natural resources to improve lives and strengthen communities,” said Craig Colombo, GO-WV Interim Board Chair. “We are grateful for his decades of service and congratulate him on his well-earned retirement. His legacy is one of progress, principle, and heart – and we cannot thank him enough.”
Burd’s distinguished career spans decades across the energy sector, including leadership roles at Hope Natural Gas Company, Dominion Energy, and the Independent Oil and Gas Association of West Virginia (IOGA-WV). In 2020, he helped lead the merger of IOGA-WV and the West Virginia Oil and Natural Gas Association (WVONGA), establishing GO-WV as the unified voice of West Virginia’s natural gas and oil industry.
“It’s been an incredible honor and privilege to lead GO-WV, and I’m extremely proud of what we’ve accomplished together,” said Burd. “I’m grateful for the relationships built along the way and the many opportunities I’ve had to serve this industry. West Virginia’s natural gas and oil industry is the economic engine of our great state, and I believe the future is incredibly bright. I look forward to continuing to lead GO-WV and working closely with my successor to ensure a smooth and successful transition.”
To that end, GO-WV has launched a national search for its next President. The association seeks a leader with deep experience in the oil and gas industry, strategic vision, and the skills and passion to champion West Virginia’s energy economy—both within the industry and at every level of government.
The incoming President will join GO-WV in a co-leadership role as President-Elect, working alongside Burd to become deeply familiar with the association’s priorities, membership, and the critical issues shaping the industry. GO-WV plans to onboard the new leader in Fall 2025, ensuring ample preparation time ahead of the upcoming legislative session.
This role requires a dynamic communicator and relationship-builder who will represent GO-WV among partner trade associations and actively engage with legislators, cabinet secretaries, and the Governor. Success will demand strong listening skills, political acumen, and collaborative leadership.
“This moment marks the beginning of a new era,” said Colombo. “We’re seeking a champion for our industry—someone who can build strong relationships, communicate with impact, and drive a forward-looking vision for the oil and natural gas sector in West Virginia.”
The ideal candidate will bring natural gas and oil industry experience, deep policy and advocacy experience, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to engage constructively with elected officials, industry leaders, and community stakeholders. This individual will play a key role in ensuring West Virginia remains a competitive, thriving energy hub for generations to come.
More information about GO-WV is available at www.GOWV.com. To apply and learn more about the position, click here. For specific questions, email gowvsearch@alignhr.com.
