Curt Blakley
Paxton,IL
Summary
Over 20 years of experience in CCS and subsurface geology, successfully transitioning DOE-funded research into commercial applications. Expertise in Class VI permitting and regulatory strategy, driving large-scale CO₂ storage projects from inception to execution. Proven track record of managing complex projects and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
VP, CCS Operations
One Earth Sequestration
01.2023 - Current
- Led development of geologic carbon storage projects achieving million-metric-ton-per-year injection scale
- Managed cross-functional teams in subsurface, engineering, regulatory, and field operations to ensure project alignment
- Primary interface with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, and the Illinois Commerce Commission
- Working through Class VI permitting, financial assurance, and pre-construction readiness
- Oversaw site characterization, drilling, monitoring programs, and infrastructure planning to support project objectives
- Supporting injection strategy, plume modeling, and long-term storage performance decisions
Visiting Associate Research Scientist
Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS)
Champaign, Illinois
01.2022 - 01.2024
- Led DOE CarbonSAFE and regional storage projects to advance carbon capture and storage technologies
- Co-PI on multi-partner CCS initiatives, collaborating with Battelle and others to enhance research outcomes
- Developed multiple EPA Class VI permit applications and conducted NEPA-related work to ensure compliance and facilitate project approvals
Project Manager / Associate Geologist
Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS)
Champaign, Illinois
01.2018 - 01.2024
- Managed CCS projects, including Illinois Storage Corridor and Wabash, ensuring successful project execution and stakeholder alignment
- Led subsurface characterization and drilling coordination, delivering technical deliverables that met project requirements
- Led project planning and execution for geological research initiatives.
- Coordinated cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives efficiently.
- Managed budgets and resources for multiple geoscience projects simultaneously.
Field Operations Manager / Associate Geologist
Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS)
Champaign, Illinois
01.2011 - 01.2018
- Managed CCS monitoring and field programs for the Illinois Basin – Decatur Project
- Managed field operations for geological surveys across diverse sites.
- Led field teams in data collection to ensure accuracy and reliability
- Coordinated logistics for equipment transport and deployment to various locations.
- Oversaw team training on safety protocols and operational procedures.
Earlier Roles
Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS)
Champaign, Illinois
01.2000 - 01.2011
- Produced technical documentation and analyzed regional stratigraphy, providing insights for informed decision-making.
- Conducted geophysical surveys and logging programs, contributing to accurate subsurface data collection.
- Worked successfully with a diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Geology and Geography
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, IL05-2000
Master of Science - Sedimentology
University of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, ILSkills
- Carbon capture and storage
- Regulatory strategy and permitting
- Subsurface geology and reservoir characterization
- Geology characterization
- Project management
- Project execution and operations
- Risk assessment
- Multi-agency coordination
Core Areas
- Class VI permitting and regulatory strategy
- Carbon capture and storage development
- Subsurface geology and reservoir characterization
- Multi-agency coordination (federal, state, local)
- Project execution and field operations
Timeline
VP, CCS Operations
One Earth Sequestration
01.2023 - Current
Visiting Associate Research Scientist
Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS)
01.2022 - 01.2024
Project Manager / Associate Geologist
Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS)
01.2018 - 01.2024
Field Operations Manager / Associate Geologist
Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS)
01.2011 - 01.2018
Earlier Roles
Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS)
01.2000 - 01.2011
Bachelor of Science - Geology and Geography
Eastern Illinois University
Master of Science - Sedimentology
University of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign