Member Feature: Ryan Rogers, Manager, Safety & Compliance, ONEOK
How did you first become involved in the terminal industry? Share a bit about that journey.
Originally aspiring to become a firefighter, I graduated from Oklahoma State University and began my career in downstream refining where I had the opportunity to join the refinery fire brigade. Driven by curiosity and a willingness to embrace new challenges, I relocated five times over the course of ten years to gain broad experience across multiple facilities. A brief assignment in a corporate group introduced me to the world of pipelines and terminals, sparking an interest in the safety, logistics, complexity, and community engagement aspects of midstream operations. Today, I’m proud to lead a Health and Safety team at ONEOK, where safety is a Core Value, and I continue to build on that foundation with purpose and passion.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is getting to work with great co-workers and teams to solve complex challenges. I love the collaboration—bringing together different perspectives to create solutions that improve safety and program efficiency. As a leader, I enjoy creating a space where team members feel empowered to contribute their ideas, take ownership of their work and support one another. It’s also incredibly gratifying to know our work not only supports our company’s success but also plays an important role in delivering energy products and services vital to advancing the world. That sense of purpose and teamwork is what keeps me motivated every day.
What advice would you offer to someone just starting out with a liquid terminal company?
The midstream sector is an amazing place to start a career. It is both exciting and rewarding. It’s important to start by building a strong foundation through education or certifications, network early and often, find a mentor and think long term. Entry-level roles are great opportunities to learn how the business works and can pay future dividends in building a career, not just landing a job.
What would you say to a young person to encourage them to pursue a future career with a liquid terminal company?
Midstream organizations are essential to the energy value chain, and the work we do has a direct impact on both the economy and our daily lives. It’s exciting how much the industry is evolving—embracing new technologies, underscoring safety, strengthening communities, and prioritizing sustainability. It provides diverse career paths from engineering and operations to environmental, information technology, and data analytics. It’s an industry where you can grow, make meaningful contributions and take pride in work that keeps cars moving, homes warm, and communities thriving.
How have you seen the industry change over the course of your career?
Over the past two decades, the midstream sector has evolved in various ways, shaped by shifts in regulations, geopolitics, and the advancement of new technologies across operations, asset integrity, and environmental, health, safety and security practices. In the last five years, I’ve seen notable progress in terminal efficiency, enhanced safety protocols, and focused, proactive efforts to reduce emissions. The operating landscape continues to shift, which is why it’s so important that we as an industry continue to be adaptable and utilize resources such as ILTA.
How do you think the industry will continue to change over the next 5, 10, or 20 years?
The outlook for our industry remains strong, and continued innovation will only strengthen our ability to deliver safe and reliable pipeline and terminal services. As the energy landscape shifts, midstream operators will need to be responsive to societal and market demands while operating critical infrastructure. Over the past decade, the industry has seen a wave of mergers and acquisitions aimed at improving efficiency and expanding capabilities. An example of this is ONEOK’s acquisitions of Magellan Midstream, EnLink, and Medallion. As the focus moves from volume to growth in scale, companies that can anticipate future market needs and integrate effectively will be better positioned for long-term success. Integration also reinforces consistent safety and environmental standards across assets, strengthening overall operations.
What is your level of involvement with ILTA?
I am relatively new to ILTA, becoming more active after seeing the value it brings to our industry. I attended my first ILTA Conference in 2024, began participating EGHSS Committee Meetings, and plan on attending my first Terminal Operating Practices Symposium (TOPS) event, where ONEOK will have a presenter to contribute to knowledge sharing. I look forward to continuing to engage with ILTA in a more active and meaningful role moving forward.
What’s your favorite part of being involved with ILTA?
One of the most rewarding aspects of being involved with ILTA is the opportunity to connect with others who share a commitment to safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operations. While each company operates within its own footprint, we all benefit from coming together to share ideas and address challenges. Industry trade associations such as ILTA create a space for that collaboration and allow us to build meaningful relationships. Stepping outside our daily routine to travel and connect with other professionals is great on both professional and personal levels.
Do you belong to any community or civic organizations you’d like to mention?
I feel fortunate to work for a company where Service is a Core Value and truly guides our actions. Through our partnership with United Way, we collaborate with a wide range of local civic and nonprofit organizations, contributing our time, resources, and support to the communities we call home. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to take part in these efforts and play a hands-on role in making a positive difference.
Do you have any hobbies or interests you’d like to mention?
I love spending time outdoors with my wife and our 9-month-old daughter. It’s become one of the most meaningful parts of my life. These days, my hobbies have shifted from hunting and golf to family-friendly outings like pumpkin patches and community parks. I’ve genuinely embraced this new chapter, and while I’m soaking up every moment, I do quietly hope that one day I’ll be able to share my love for hunting and golf with my family, too.
Anything additional you'd like to add?
I’ve really enjoyed reflecting on my journey and advice for the future workforce. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities ONEOK and the midstream industry have provided—not just for my career, but for my family, co-workers and the communities we serve. Looking ahead, I’m excited for the challenges and growth to come. With a strong team and an industry rooted in shared values and integrity, I’m confident we’ll continue to make a lasting impact.