A third-generation oilman with an unmatched blend of industry expertise and political acumen
About Mike Cantrell
Forging the Future from Experience
Mike Cantrell is a third-generation oilman, author, speaker, and energy consultant who brings a unique blend of deep industry experience and political acumen. His journey began with a family legacy forged in Oklahoma's oilfields, where he gained hands-on experience from an early age. A successful 45-year career in Oil and Gas Exploration and Production taught him a pivotal lesson: the direct relationship between government policy and the industry's bottom line. This insight led him to a dual career in Government, Regulatory, and Public Affairs, where he mastered the art of building collaborations and coalitions to drive results and effect change.
Founded Multiple Companies
Successfully led organizations for decades
Industry Recognition
Chairman of major energy alliances
Policy Expert
Decades navigating regulations
Published Author
ADVANCE: Real-world success principles
As the founder of Pivotal Strategic Solutions, Mike uses this rare skill set to help businesses navigate and influence the complex world of energy policy. He continues to lead with a passion for the industry and a personal pride in his two children, a political consultant, and a fourth-generation oilman, who have followed him. In his free time, you can find him exploring the open road on his Harley-Davidson.
Career Highlights
Chairman, Postwood Energy LLC
Present
Chairman, Cantrell Energy Partners LLC
Present
Principal, Cantrell Investments LLC
2000 – Present | Oil and gas investment company
VP Government and Regulatory Affairs, Continental Resources, Inc.
March 2012 – March 2013
Political Affairs Consultant, Continental Resources, Inc.
April 2009 – March 2012 | Federal and state issues
President, Oklahoma Basic Economy Corporation
1975 – 2000 | Ada, Oklahoma-based oil and gas exploration/production company
Chairman, Oil Center Operating, Inc.
1991 – 1999 | Ada, Oklahoma-based oil and gas production operating company
Board Leadership
The Oklahoma Energy Producers Alliance
Citizens Bank of Ada
Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association (1980–2017)
Grand River Dam Authority (2004–2008)
Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence (1994–1996)
Leadership Oklahoma (2004–2006)
Oklahomans for Workers Compensation Reform — Vice Chairman
Oklahomans for Lawsuit Reform — Vice Chairman
Leadership Timeline
2009 – Present
Oklahoma Energy Producers Alliance
Chairman, President & Board Member (2017–March 2025)
Texas Alliance of Energy Producers
Board of Directors (2009–2017)
National Stripper Well Association
Chairman (April 2014–2016)
Domestic Energy Producers Alliance
Co-Founder and President (2009–2012)
North Dakota Petroleum Council
Board of Directors (2010–2013)
1990 – 2002
Save Domestic Oil, Inc.
President (1999–2002) - Nationwide coalition
Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association
President (1995–1997) - 1,200 members
Oklahoma Energy Resources Board
Co-Founder/Chairman (1992–1995)
Liaison Committee of Cooperating Oil & Gas
Chairman (1989–1991) - 32 associations
Texas Independent Petroleum Producers & Royalty Owners Association
Executive Committee (1995–1998)
National Association of Royalty Owners
Industry Advisory Board (1990–2000)
Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association
Chairman, Environmental Committee (1990–1995)
Ada Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors (1989–1991)
1990 – 2002
Ada City School Foundation
Founder and President - Grew endowment 1,000%
Wildcatter Club of Oklahoma
President - Tripled membership
Leadership Oklahoma
Member, Charter Class (1984)
Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association — Membership Committee
Chairman (1982–1984) — Reached historic membership high
Council for a Secure America
Director (1986–2017)
Pollution Enforcement Subcommittee (OCC Industry Advisory Committee)
