Phillip Sanders
Midland,TX
Summary
Accomplished HSE executive with over 22 years of progressive leadership in upstream drilling, oilfield services, pipeline and SWD construction, and environmental remediation. Demonstrated expertise in building and scaling safety programs from inception, achieving a 30% reduction in TRIR while maintaining only four recordable incident over 13 years. Entrepreneurial spirit evident through the founding of three companies, including Nighthawk Environmental Services, which generated over $2.5 million in revenue within its first year. Recognized for translating HSE strategies into measurable operational and financial outcomes, fostering high-performance safety cultures, and driving impactful results across diverse organizational environments.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
HSE Regional Manager
Pinnergy Ltd.
TX & NM
02.2026 - Current
- Served as the primary regional HSE authority, managing health, safety, and environmental initiatives for multiple charm drilling rigs engaged in surface casing operations in Texas and New Mexico.
- Crafted and executed a regional HSE program, integrating essential policies, inspection protocols, emergency response plans, and training curricula shortly after joining the organization.
- Executed comprehensive inspections and hazard assessments to enhance operational safety and mitigate risks across multiple rig sites.
- Conducted rigorous competency assessments and training for Stop Work Authority and H2S Surface Casing Safety, reinforcing safety protocols for all rig personnel and new hires.
- Coordinated HSE matters, KPI reporting, and incident response efforts between rig operations client representatives and executive leadership to enhance operational safety and compliance.
- Successfully streamlined IsNetworld, PEC, and CMS pre-qualification processes for Texas/New Mexico clients, enhancing communication of TRIR, LTIR, and safety statistics to leadership. Achieved seamless coordination of IsNetworld, PEC, and CMS pre-qualifications for Texas/New Mexico clients, facilitating effective safety metric dissemination to leadership. Effectively optimized management of IsNetworld, PEC, and CMS pre-qualifications for Texas/New Mexico clients, driving impactful safety performance updates to leadership.
- Directed regional operations to enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction.
- Implemented strategic initiatives to optimize resource allocation across multiple locations.
Founder & Owner
Nighthawk Environmental Services, LLC
Midland, Texas
01.2023 - Current
- Founded a Permian Basin environmental services company that generated over $2.5 million in revenue within its first full calendar year — achieved through direct operator relationships, competitive MSA execution, and rapid field mobilization capabilities.
- Established sustainable waste management practices to enhance environmental compliance and client satisfaction.
- Directed strategic planning initiatives, aligning service offerings with market demands and regulatory requirements.
- Implemented innovative recycling programs, significantly reducing landfill contributions for diverse clients.
- Cultivated partnerships with local governments and organizations to promote community engagement in environmental stewardship.
- Led operational teams in executing complex projects, ensuring adherence to safety standards and project timelines.
- Developed training programs for staff, improving skill sets and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
- Streamlined business operations through process optimization, enhancing workflow efficiency and service delivery.
- Advocated for eco-friendly technologies, driving organizational commitment to sustainability initiatives across all services offered.
- Developed strong partnerships with other businesses to allow for collaboration and more significant opportunities for growth.
- Established a successful business by identifying market needs and developing innovative solutions.
- Delivered exceptional customer service by addressing client concerns promptly and effectively resolving issues.
- Led the strategic planning process to define business goals and ensure alignment across all departments.
- Built a positive organizational culture that fostered creativity, innovation, and employee engagement.
- Oversaw financial management activities such as budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow monitoring for improved financial stability.
- Championed continuous improvement efforts within the organization, streamlining operations for increased efficiency.
- Created and monitored promotional approaches to increase sales and profit levels.
- Developed key operational initiatives to drive and maintain substantial business growth.
- Guided team members through periods of change by providing clear communication on expectations and objectives moving forward.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations while maintaining ethical business practices at all times.
- Conducted target market research to scope out industry competition and identify advantageous trends.
- Negotiated favorable contracts with suppliers, reducing costs while maintaining product quality.
- Developed strong partnerships with key industry players, contributing to an increased market presence.
- Achieved long-term sustainability for the organization through responsible decision-making processes grounded in ethics.
Founder/Owner
Bellows RV Park
Midland
01.2017 - Current
- Founded and continue to operate a commercial RV park, managing site development, permitting, vendor contracts, revenue operations, and all ongoing regulatory and maintenance requirements.
- Demonstrates sustained entrepreneurial capability and business ownership across industries outside of oil and gas.
- Developed and implemented operational strategies to enhance guest experience at RV park.
- Managed park maintenance schedules, ensuring optimal facility conditions for guests.
- Established partnerships with local businesses to enhance recreational offerings for guests.
- Developed strong partnerships with other businesses to allow for collaboration and more significant opportunities for growth.
- Established a successful business by identifying market needs and developing innovative solutions.
- Built a positive organizational culture that fostered creativity, innovation, and employee engagement.
- Oversaw financial management activities such as budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow monitoring for improved financial stability.
- Championed continuous improvement efforts within the organization, streamlining operations for increased efficiency.
- Created and monitored promotional approaches to increase sales and profit levels.
- Developed key operational initiatives to drive and maintain substantial business growth.
- Conducted target market research to scope out industry competition and identify advantageous trends.
- Introduced advanced technology solutions into daily operations which led to increased productivity levels throughout the company.
- Created organization's mission and vision statements for use by employees.
- Achieved long-term sustainability for the organization through responsible decision-making processes grounded in ethics.
- Built and maintained strong, cohesive team by recruiting top talent and fostering supportive work environment.
- Increased brand visibility and market penetration by developing and executing comprehensive marketing strategies.
- Improved operational efficiency, adopting new technologies that automated routine tasks.
- Established and maintained strong relationships with customers, vendors and strategic partners.
- Developed innovative sales and marketing strategies to facilitate business expansion.
- Oversaw staff training programs to improve service standards and operational efficiency.
- Monitored financial performance, implementing cost-saving measures without compromising quality.
- Cultivated a positive workplace culture, fostering teamwork and employee engagement among staff members.
- Streamlined booking processes through effective use of reservation management software.
- Led marketing initiatives, increasing brand visibility and attracting new clientele to the park.
- Delivered exceptional customer service by addressing client concerns promptly and effectively resolving issues.
- Led the strategic planning process to define business goals and ensure alignment across all departments.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations while maintaining ethical business practices at all times.
- Secured sufficient funds to cover business obligations by tracking expenses and budgeting accurately.
- Established operational protocols to enhance guest experience at RV park.
- Managed budgeting and financial planning to optimize resource allocation.
- Developed marketing strategies that increased park visibility and customer engagement.
- Implemented staff training programs to improve service quality and operational efficiency.
- Oversaw maintenance schedules ensuring facilities met safety standards and guest satisfaction.
- Cultivated partnerships with local businesses for cross-promotional opportunities.
- Analyzed guest feedback to drive continuous improvement in services offered.
- Led community outreach initiatives enhancing park reputation within local area.
- Guided team members through periods of change by providing clear communication on expectations and objectives moving forward.
- Expanded the company''s geographical reach, opening new markets and increasing profitability.
- Negotiated favorable contracts with suppliers, reducing costs while maintaining product quality.
- Developed strong partnerships with key industry players, contributing to an increased market presence.
- Implemented efficient operational processes to optimize productivity and resource allocation.
- Cultivated loyal customer base through personalized marketing campaigns and loyalty programs.
- Expanded company's footprint internationally by identifying and capitalizing on emerging market opportunities.
- Led company through successful rebranding effort, refreshing brand image to appeal to broader audience.
- Streamlined operations, implementing efficient workflow processes that cut down on project completion times.
- Bolstered company reputation and trust by maintaining high ethical standards and transparency in all dealings.
- Boosted team productivity and morale through leadership development programs and regular feedback sessions.
Founder & Owner
Black Scorpion Environmental Services, LLC
Midland, Texas
01.2016 - Current
- Founded and have operated an environmental services company for nearly a decade, providing hydrocarbon remediation, spill response, waste disposal, and SWPPP/SPCC services to upstream oil and gas operators across West Texas.
- Established all company infrastructure including licensing, insurance, TCEQ/EPA compliance documentation, HSE plans, and contractor management system (CMS) qualifications for operator MSAs.
- Built long-term service agreements with E&P operators by consistently delivering rapid response times, clean regulatory records, and measurable environmental outcomes on every project.
- Established sustainable waste management practices to enhance environmental compliance and client satisfaction.
- Directed strategic planning initiatives, aligning service offerings with market demands and regulatory requirements.
- Implemented innovative recycling programs, significantly reducing landfill contributions for diverse clients.
- Cultivated partnerships with local governments and organizations to promote community engagement in environmental stewardship.
- Led operational teams in executing complex projects, ensuring adherence to safety standards and project timelines.
- Developed training programs for staff, improving skill sets and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
- Streamlined business operations through process optimization, enhancing workflow efficiency and service delivery.
- Advocated for eco-friendly technologies, driving organizational commitment to sustainability initiatives across all services offered.
- Developed strong partnerships with other businesses to allow for collaboration and more significant opportunities for growth.
- Established a successful business by identifying market needs and developing innovative solutions.
- Delivered exceptional customer service by addressing client concerns promptly and effectively resolving issues.
- Led the strategic planning process to define business goals and ensure alignment across all departments.
- Built a positive organizational culture that fostered creativity, innovation, and employee engagement.
- Oversaw financial management activities such as budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow monitoring for improved financial stability.
- Championed continuous improvement efforts within the organization, streamlining operations for increased efficiency.
- Created and monitored promotional approaches to increase sales and profit levels.
- Guided team members through periods of change by providing clear communication on expectations and objectives moving forward.
HSE Director
Owl / Pilot Water Solutions
Permian Basin, TX
01.2014 - 01.2025
- Served as the senior HSE executive for a high-volume Permian Basin oilfield services company, recording only four OSHA recordable incidents over 13 years and sustaining a 30% reduction in TRIR — one of the strongest long-term safety records in the region.
- Built and continuously evolved a company-wide HSE management system encompassing safety manuals, field procedures, behavior-based safety (BBS) observations, and a multi-level training program aligned with OSHA, DOT, TCEQ, and ISNetworld standards.
- Directed $11.5 million in environmental remediation projects across multiple sites, achieving full regulatory closure through strategic planning, contractor oversight, and proactive engagement with TCEQ and EPA.
- Oversaw HSE for large-scale construction of gathering lines, trunk lines, and high-pressure transmission pipelines, as well as saltwater disposal wells (SWDs) — managing excavation safety, hot work, confined space, hydrostatic testing, and commissioning protocols.
- Championed permit-to-work systems and pre-construction JHAs for right-of-way clearing, trenching, and welding operations, reducing construction-phase incidents across all active projects.
- Led all incident investigations using DNV SCAT methodology; managed corrective action programs, OSHA 300 log accuracy, and DOT/regulatory filings with zero overdue submissions across 11 years.
- Delivered monthly and quarterly HSE KPI packages to senior leadership and operator clients, including TRIR/LTIR trends, near-miss frequency, and leading indicator scorecards.
- Recruited, developed, and managed a team of field HSE advisors; built individual development plans, conducted performance evaluations, and drove career progression within the HSE function.
- Represented the company in OSHA inspections, regulatory citation defense, and civil litigation proceedings as the primary HSE authority.
- Invented and patented multiple oil recovery chemicals as part of ongoing environmental innovation efforts, contributing to cost reduction and remediation effectiveness.
- Conducted regular audits and inspections to identify hazards and mitigate risks effectively.
- Led training sessions for employees on safety protocols, fostering a culture of health and safety awareness.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive EHS programs to ensure regulatory compliance and workplace safety.
- Analyzed incident reports to identify trends, developing strategies for prevention and continuous improvement.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to integrate EHS initiatives into operational processes and procedures.
- Managed emergency response plans, ensuring preparedness for potential incidents and environmental emergencies.
- Established key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor EHS program effectiveness and drive accountability across teams.
- Provided strategic leadership in aligning EHS objectives with organizational goals, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry best practices in EHS management through participation in conferences, workshops, and continuing education opportunities.
- Evaluated new equipment purchases for potential hazards, recommending modifications or alternative solutions as needed to reduce risks.
- Provided technical expertise in the development of permit applications for air, water, and waste management programs, ensuring timely approvals and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Operations Manager / HSE & DOT Director
OWL / Lotus Oilfield Services
Pearsall, Texas
08.2012 - 01.2014
- Held a dual executive role overseeing all field operations and DOT/HSE compliance for a Permian Basin oilfield services company operating 110 CDL drivers and a large commercial fleet.
- Achieved 100% FMCSA and DOT compliance across the fleet through rigorous management of ELD/paper logs, CDL credentials, DOT medical certificates, and random drug and alcohol testing.
- Designed and deployed DOT policies, SOPs, and a structured driver training program covering both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel evaluation; reduced preventable accident rates.
- Directed IV investigations, trend analysis, and recurrence prevention programs; presented data-driven safety improvement plans to senior leadership with measurable results.
- Managed fleet maintenance budgets and vehicle lifecycle programs, reducing operating costs while sustaining full regulatory uptime across all assets.
- Streamlined operations by implementing efficient processes and procedures.
- Led cross-functional teams to enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness.
- Developed and monitored key performance indicators to drive continuous improvement.
- Oversaw resource allocation to optimize workforce efficiency and productivity.
- Established safety protocols ensuring compliance with industry regulations and standards.
- Mentored junior staff, fostering skills development and knowledge sharing across teams.
- Collaborated with executive leadership on strategic initiatives to align operations with business goals.
- Conducted regular audits to identify areas for operational enhancement and risk mitigation.
- Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
- Empowered employees to take ownership of their responsibilities, leading to increased accountability and improved performance outcomes.
- Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
- Managed inventory and supply chain operations to achieve timely and accurate delivery of goods and services.
- Led hiring, onboarding and training of new hires to fulfill business requirements.
- Developed and maintained relationships with external vendors and suppliers.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by establishing clear communication channels and addressing concerns promptly.
HSE West Texas Regional Supervisor
Express Energy LLC
Midland, Texas
01.2011 - 01.2012
- Managed all HSE performance, compliance, and regulatory obligations for West Texas field operations, reporting TRIR, LTIR, and leading indicator KPIs to senior leadership.
- Authored and implemented Level 2 HSE Policies & Procedures within the company’s Business Management System (BMS), standardizing safe work practices and documentation across the region.
- Led investigations into serious incidents including fatalities, applying structured RCA methodologies and presenting findings with actionable corrective measures to prevent recurrence.
- Managed SWPPP, SPCC, and waste management programs in compliance with TCEQ and EPA standards; administered contractor prequalifications and ongoing HSE compliance audits.
- Directed HSE personnel scheduling, resource deployment, and performance management across the region, ensuring continuous coverage of all client and regulatory obligations.
- Oversaw regional operations, ensuring adherence to safety standards and compliance regulations.
- Led a team of supervisors, fostering collaboration and enhancing overall operational efficiency.
- Implemented process improvements that reduced turnaround time for service requests across the region.
- Developed training programs for staff, enhancing skill sets and promoting career advancement opportunities.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline communication and optimize workflow processes.
- Monitored performance metrics, identifying areas for improvement to drive productivity and service quality.
- Conducted regular safety audits, implementing corrective actions to mitigate risks and enhance workplace safety.
- Oversaw the recruitment process to ensure the hiring of top talent in alignment with company objectives.
- Managed budgeting processes, aligning resources with strategic objectives to maximize profitability in the region.
- Analyzed market trends to identify new growth opportunities for business expansion within the region.
- Led change management initiatives, resulting in smoother transitions during organizational restructuring efforts.
- Improved regional performance by implementing streamlined processes and efficient management strategies.
- Fostered a positive working environment through proactive conflict resolution measures and consistent recognition of staff achievements.
Safety Supervisor
Endeavor Energy Resources / Big Dog Drilling
Midland, Texas
01.2007 - 01.2011
- Supervised day-to-day HSE operations across active drilling rigs and field locations, managing safety performance, incident response, and compliance for a multi-rig Permian Basin drilling contractor.
- Investigated accidents and near-misses and applied corrective action programs that measurably reduced incident frequency, workers’ compensation costs, and third-party auto claims.
- Maintained DOT fleet compliance for all commercial vehicles; managed driver qualification files, vehicle inspection records, and testing documentation across the fleet.
- Developed and maintained HSE policies and field procedures in line with federal, state, and client requirements; delivered safety training and new hire orientations across all rig crews.
- Developed and implemented safety programs ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
- Conducted regular safety audits identifying areas for improvement and risk mitigation.
- Trained and mentored staff on safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
- Collaborated with management to enhance workplace safety culture and environmental stewardship.
- Led incident investigation teams, determining root causes and implementing corrective actions swiftly.
- Evaluated incident reports, analyzing trends to prevent future occurrences and improve practices.
- Coordinated safety drills enhancing preparedness for emergency situations across all operations.
- Engaged with external regulatory agencies ensuring adherence to safety standards and best practices.
- Promoted a safety-first culture by providing ongoing coaching, feedback, and support to staff members.
- Enhanced workplace safety by conducting regular inspections and identifying potential hazards.
- Monitored safety practices of new and existing employees.
- Conducted thorough risk assessments for new projects, ensuring all necessary precautions were taken to maintain worker safety.
- Kept main work areas free of debris and obstacles that could cause falls and mishaps.
- Developed targeted safety campaigns aimed at reducing specific types of incidents within the organization.
Safety Coordinator (Rig)
Key Energy
Midland, Texas
01.2004 - 01.2007
- Began career as rig-level HSE coordinator for a major oilfield services company, building the foundational expertise in well service and workover safety that has driven 22+ years of progressive HSE leadership.
- Conducted site inspections, JSA reviews, and pre-job hazard assessments; facilitated toolbox talks, OSHA training, PEC SafeLand, and H2S certifications for all rig crew and new hire personnel.
- Managed incident documentation, safety training records, and competency files; ensured full compliance with all OSHA, company, and client safety standards on every job.
- Developed and implemented safety training programs to enhance employee awareness and compliance.
- Conducted regular safety audits to identify hazards and ensure adherence to safety standards.
- Collaborated with management to refine emergency response plans and procedures, improving readiness for incidents.
- Led incident investigation teams to analyze causes and recommend corrective actions, enhancing workplace safety culture.
- Mentored junior staff on safety protocols, fostering a proactive approach to risk management across teams.
- Streamlined reporting processes for safety incidents, ensuring timely communication of findings and recommendations.
- Championed continuous improvement initiatives in safety practices, resulting in reduced incidents over time.
- Liaised with regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal safety regulations and guidelines.
- Inspected worksites, practices, and gear for compliance with established safety standards.
- Recognized, documented, and advised on removal of hazards.
- Provided ongoing support and resources to supervisors in managing safety performance within their departments, fostering a culture of accountability among leadership.
- Gathered information, prepared reports, and drafted correspondence related to cases.
- Conducted regular site inspections, identifying potential hazards and ensuring prompt resolution.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Occupational Health & Safety
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, ARAssociate of Science - Occupational Safety
Odessa College
Odessa, TX01.2015
Bachelor of Science - Physiology
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL12.1996
Skills
- ISNetworld
- PEC compliance systems
- OSHA 300 log management
- DNV SCAT
- Learning Management Systems (LMS)
- SWPPP
- SPCC
- Waste Management
- Emergency Response Plans
- STOP Work Authority programs
- H2S monitoring
- Fleet management
- DOT/FMCSA compliance systems
- ELD monitoring
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Microsoft Teams
- Team leadership
- Relationship building
- Decision-making
- Critical thinking
Certification
- OHST — Occupational Health & Safety Technician
- Six Sigma Certification
- TEEX OSHA #501 — Train the Trainer
- TEEX Training 511 (31 Hours)
- PEC Basic Orientation Instructor, Version 7.0
- H2S Train the Trainer Certification
- Forklift Train the Trainer Certification
- OSHA Courses: 7845, 2225, 7505, 7105
- Confined Space
- Fall Prevention
- LO/TO
- Bloodborne Pathogens
- Hazard Communication
CORE COMPETENCIES
- EHS Program Development & Leadership
- TRIR / LTIR Reduction & KPI Reporting
- Incident Investigation & DNV SCAT RCA
- OSHA
- DOT
- TCEQ
- EPA
- FMCSA Compliance
- Pipeline & SWD Construction Safety
- Permit-to-Work & Process Safety Systems
- ISNetworld & Contractor Management (CMS)
- Behavior-Based Safety (BBS) Programs
- HSE Training & Competency Development
- Business Development & MSA Negotiation
- P&L Ownership & Cost Reduction
- Executive Leadership & Team Building
- Environmental Remediation & SPCC/SWPPP
- Fleet Management & DOT/FMCSA Compliance
- Multi-State & Multi-Site Operations
Timeline
HSE Regional Manager
Pinnergy Ltd.
02.2026 - Current
Founder & Owner
Nighthawk Environmental Services, LLC
01.2023 - Current
Founder/Owner
Bellows RV Park
01.2017 - Current
Founder & Owner
Black Scorpion Environmental Services, LLC
01.2016 - Current
HSE Director
Owl / Pilot Water Solutions
01.2014 - 01.2025
Operations Manager / HSE & DOT Director
OWL / Lotus Oilfield Services
08.2012 - 01.2014
HSE West Texas Regional Supervisor
Express Energy LLC
01.2011 - 01.2012
Safety Supervisor
Endeavor Energy Resources / Big Dog Drilling
01.2007 - 01.2011
Safety Coordinator (Rig)
Key Energy
01.2004 - 01.2007
Bachelor of Science - Occupational Health & Safety
Arkansas State University
Associate of Science - Occupational Safety
Odessa College
Bachelor of Science - Physiology
University of Florida