Todd Habets, MBA, CSP, Director - Health, Safety, Security, and Environmental, Jet Infrastructure
How did you first become involved in the terminal industry? Share a bit about that journey.
I first became involved in the terminal industry through downstream oil and gas at refineries in the upper Midwest and Southeastern states. Prior to transitioning into oil and gas, I held an international role in the food industry. When I made the move into petrochemicals, I started in a slightly above entry level role as a safety representative supporting two refinery units, Crude and Sulfur, while also taking on responsibilities as the refinery’s VPP lead.
After several years, I stepped into a management opportunity at a smaller asphalt refinery. Both facilities included tank farms and terminal operations, which further strengthened my experience on the midstream side of the business. From there, I advanced into a Regional Director role with a midstream company, overseeing operations across California, Oregon, and Washington.
That progression ultimately led me to JET Infrastructure, where I now serve as Corporate Director of HSSE. In this role, I am able to draw on my experience across refining and midstream operations to support a growing organization focused on building a strong, safety-driven and operationally disciplined platform.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my role is my ability to engage across nearly every aspect of the organization. That level of visibility allows me to identify opportunities to strengthen how we support our people, refine our processes, and optimize our assets.
At JET Infrastructure, being part of a growing and forward-looking company also provides the opportunity to help shape how we operate as we scale. It is especially rewarding to contribute in a way that has a direct and lasting impact on the organization and the people who make it successful, along with the industry.
What advice would you offer to someone just starting out with a liquid terminal company?
Listen and ask questions to fully understand the people, the company, and the challenges first. Building that foundation is critical before trying to influence or implement change.
I would also encourage individuals to take on or lead projects whenever the opportunity arises, even if they fall outside of your comfort zone or your defined role. Experiences like these can provide valuable perspective on where you add the most value and how you can continue to grow within the organization.
What would you say to a young person to encourage them to pursue a future career with a liquid terminal company?
We move the world in more ways than just powering a vehicle, which creates a strong sense of purpose in what we do. The industry is also playing an important role in supporting the transition to more environmentally responsible energy solutions, including decarbonization and alternative fuels.
Organizations like JET Infrastructure are part of that evolution, making it an exciting time to build a career in this space and contribute to where the industry is headed.
How have you seen the industry change over the course of your career?
The biggest changes I have seen are twofold. The average age across the workforce has decreased significantly, and regulations have become much more robust across the industry. Both trends continue to shape how organizations operate and prepare for the future.
How do you think the industry will continue to change over the next 5, 10, or 20 years?
Over the coming years, I expect we will continue to see a transition toward alternative and sustainable fuels, along with the growth of electric vehicles and other emerging energy solutions. Traditional fossil fuels may continue to evolve depending on advancements in efficiency and utilization.
I see oil and gas continuing to adapt by playing a key role in the creation, storage, and transportation of these newer energy sources. While the industry will continue to evolve year after year, it will remain an essential part of the global energy landscape.
What is your level of involvement with ILTA?
I have attended and presented multiple times at the annual Conference & Trade Show. In addition, I have participated in Joint Committee Meetings several times over the years.
What’s your favorite part of being involved with ILTA?
Networking with like-minded professionals is always a highlight. Expanding your network broadens the resources available to you, and those connections can be incredibly valuable when challenges arise.
Do you belong to any community or civic organizations you’d like to mention?
I regularly volunteer with a local youth swim team and have served on various community service boards.