Oxnard Leadership Program Powers Up During Energy Day

From traditional energy production to renewable natural gas, the Oxnard Leadership Program gained a firsthand look at the industries powering Ventura County during its 2026 Energy Day. Coordinated by 2018 Oxnard Leadership graduate Justin Campbell, an Environmental Scientist with Catalyst Environmental Solutions, the session featured behind-the-scenes visits to CalNRG's San Miguelito Oil Field and Agromin's Mountain View Organic Waste Processing Facility, a panel discussion with leaders from SoCal Gas, Southern California Edison, and Clean Power Alliance, and a casual Q&A with Oxnard City Manager Alexander Nguyen. Special thanks to Santa Barbara Airbus for sponsoring private charter transportation throughout the day, helping ensure the cohort traveled comfortably and efficiently between each destination.

Highlights of the session included:

• Hearing from CalNRG's President/Chief Operating Officer Clif Simonsen and Legal & Communications Olivia Simonsen about responsible local oil production, environmental stewardship, and the company's role in meeting California's energy needs. The private bus tour of the oil field showcased stunning ocean views, despite the June gloom.
• ​After lunch, sponsored by Catalyst Environmental Solutions, there was an engaging Energy Panel Discussion featuring Natalie Yanez of Southern California Edison, Elisabeth Paniagua of SoCalGas, and Joe Cabral of Clean Power Alliance. Panelists shared insights on the opportunities and challenges facing California's evolving energy landscape, emphasizing the importance of innovation, collaboration, and a diverse energy portfolio to meet the region's future needs. The panel discussion took place at SoCalGas headquartered in Oxnard.
• Meeting with Oxnard City Manager Alexander Nguyen for a thoughtful discussion on the major environmental issues impacting the City of Oxnard. The conversation explored topics including climate resilience, coastal protection, water resources, sustainability initiatives, and the challenges of balancing environmental stewardship with economic growth and community development.
• Concludin the day touring Agromin's state-of-the-art organic waste processing facility in Oxnard, across the street from SoCalGas. Participants met with CEO Bill Camarillo and learned how organic waste is transformed into valuable resources through composting and anaerobic digestion. By converting food scraps and other organic materials into nutrient-rich compost and renewable energy, Agromin helps reduce landfill waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and support a more sustainable, circular economy.

Energy Day highlighted how Ventura County's future is being shaped by organizations working across the energy spectrum—from conventional production and utility infrastructure to renewable energy and sustainable resource management. The Oxnard Leadership Program extends its sincere thanks to the speakers, hosts, and sponsors who made the day an informative and inspiring experience.