Autry C. Stephens
B.S. petroleum and geosystems engineering 1961, M.S. 1962
Pioneer of the Permian Basin Autry C. Stephens
The late, legendary Midland oilman Autry C. Stephens (1938-2024) led by example—in the boardroom, oil fields and his local community—showing the world that success grows from the ground up when nurtured with passion, courage and grit.
From pioneering new methods for drilling wells that ensured more long-term jobs for thousands of employees to appearing in a cameo role on reality TV, Autry’s winding career underscores the importance of taking risks and charting new courses.
“We are so proud of Autry. His life and career illustrate what it means to be a Texas Engineer—hard-working, impact-driven, innovative, resilient and dedicated to making a true difference.
Roger BonnecazeDean of the Cockrell School of Engineering
His story is an inspiration to generations of Cockrell students, alumni and researchers, setting a precedent for success that will inspire them to follow their dreams.”
The Autry C. Stephens Engineering Discovery Building
The third new engineering facility in a decade, the Autry C. Stephens Engineering Discovery Building (ACS) will house the Cockrell School’s top-ranked Hildebrand Department of Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering and McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering.
It features flipped classrooms, flexible study areas, and modern lecture halls to help students, faculty and researchers work together on today’s complex engineering challenges.
“My dad always recognized his education at The University of Texas as one of the major building blocks in his life.
There’s no better way to honor him than our investment in future generations of students who will move the energy industry forward.”
– Lyndal Stephens Greth, The Stephens Greth Foundation
In the News
2024 Distinguished Alumnus
UT Austin recognized Autry C. Stephens as a 2024 Texas Exes Distinguished Alumnus for his contributions to the energy industry and the state of Texas.
From humble beginnings growing up on his family farm to running one of the most successful oil and gas companies in the U.S., Autry C. Stephens was a leader in Texas energy for over 40 years. His company, Endeavor Energy Resources, acquired by Diamondback Energy in 2024, provided jobs to over 1,100 employees and helped create new jobs for thousands more.
Stephens was a true pillar of his community, through both his work with various charitable organizations and giving back to his employees. His community was his family, and The University of Texas at Austin is proud to honor him as a Distinguished Alumnus.
“We say what starts in Texas changes the world. When I see and think about Autry’s life, his legacy and career, I remember the Discovery Well on University lands of Santa Rita number one.
Don Evansformer U.S. Secretary of Commerce and chairman of Permian Strategic Partnership
Santa Rita stands for the patron saint of the impossible. I think we ought to think of Autry as the patron saint of the Permian Basin.”
Autry C. Stephens, Endeavor Energy Resources