As the global energy landscape rapidly evolves, a dynamic partnership between JPMorganChase and the TCU Ralph Lowe Energy Institute (RLEI) is positioning Fort Worth as a hub for forward-thinking energy leadership.
“JPMorganChase and TCU’s collaboration combines academic excellence and industry influence to drive innovation, workforce development and economic growth in North Texas and beyond,” said Nikki Morris, Executive Director of the Ralph Lowe Energy Institute.
At the heart of this partnership is a shared commitment to advancing both traditional and emerging energy solutions while preparing the next generation of leaders to thrive in a changing world.
In October, the Ralph Lowe Energy Institute named JPMorganChase its Legendary Bank Partner—a distinction that honors the firm’s deep commitment to energy leadership and student development.
“This isn’t just about financial support,” said J.T. Aughinbaugh, Fort Worth Market Manager of J.P. Morgan Private Bank and Vice Chair of JPMorganChase’s Market Leadership Team in North Texas. “Our relationship with TCU and the Ralph Lowe Energy Institute spans decades. Together, we are investing in people, research and real-world solutions that make a tangible impact in the state of Texas, the energy industry and with our clients.”
The partnership enables students to engage directly with experts across the country—from Houston and New York to Ohio and Washington, D.C.—who convene in Fort Worth to discuss the future of energy. For students, this means unparalleled access to industry leaders and hands-on learning experiences that are crucial for their professional growth and readiness to tackle real-world challenges.
At TCU’s annual Global Energy Symposium in April, Aughinbaugh highlighted the firm’s longstanding commitment to energy. Over the past five years, JPMorganChase has provided more than $219 billion in credit and capital to energy companies headquartered in Texas.
“Texas is one of JPMorganChase’s fastest growing regions, and North Texas leads the way,” Aughinbaugh added. “We have more employees in Texas than we do in any other state in the country. That speaks volumes about our long-term commitment to this state and its industries.”
From the academic side, the Ralph Lowe Energy Institute plays a central role in cultivating energy leaders equipped to navigate both business and sustainability goals.
“At TCU, we’re focused on bridging the gap between the classroom and the real world,” said Morris. “Our partnership with JPMorganChase allows students to learn directly from industry veterans while gaining hands-on experience with the latest innovations in energy and finance. We’re incredibly grateful for the bank’s long-standing support and collaboration.”
Ben Ratner, Executive Director of J.P. Morgan’s Center for Carbon Transition, emphasized the importance of having a dual focus on traditional and new energy.
“Our philosophy is advancing an all-of-the-above energy approach,” said Ratner. “We’re investing in innovation and infrastructure across the energy spectrum—from carbon-intensive industries looking to decarbonize, to clean tech startups reshaping the grid. Collaborating with academic institutions like TCU ensures we’re also investing in the emerging leaders who will drive that innovation forward.”
This collaboration is especially timely given the sector’s cyclical nature. While energy markets fluctuate, JPMorganChase is known for maintaining a steady hand.
“What our clients—and students—need most is consistency,” said Aughinbaugh. “We’ve proven our commitment through good times and bad, always staying engaged, always contributing to the future of energy.”
For Fort Worth, the implications are profound. This partnership not only elevates the city’s standing as a center for energy excellence, but also creates a sustainable talent pipeline and bolsters local economic development.
“To see two powerhouse institutions like JPMorganChase and TCU coming together in this way is incredibly exciting,” said Morris. “It’s not just about what we’re doing today—it’s about shaping what comes next.”
JPMorganChase’s relationship with TCU is deeply rooted. The firm’s predecessor institution, Fort Worth National Bank, dates back to 1873—the same year TCU was founded. That historic link now extends into cutting-edge energy collaboration, industry research and professional development for students.
In addition to its work with RLEI, the bank also supports students through the JPMorganChase Inclusive Excellence Mentoring Program at TCU. This initiative pairs students with mentors to help build professional skills and expand networks.
As both organizations continue to deepen their collaboration, Fort Worth stands to benefit in ways that extend far beyond the classroom or boardroom. It’s a model of how meaningful partnerships can power progress—locally and globally.
JPMorganChase JPMorganChase has nearly 3 million consumer and small business clients across greater Dallas-Fort Worth. The firm served DFW clients and communities for 150 years and invested $40 million in North Texas nonprofits since 2019. Chairman and CEO Jamie Dimon named TCU a key client and strategic partner in his 2024 Annual Letter to Shareholders. The bank has provided more than $219 billion in credit and capital to energy companies headquartered in Texas, including supporting Double Eagle Energy through 2016 and 2020 commodity price crashes and serving as financial advisors to Endeavor Energy in its historic $26 billion merger with Diamondback Energy in 2024.
TCU Ralph Lowe Energy Institute TCU Ralph Lowe Energy Institute prepares students to lead in a dynamic global energy economy. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, the energy institute delivers cutting-edge curriculum, hands-on learning opportunities, and direct engagement with energy leaders across traditional and emerging sectors. Through strategic partnerships and signature events like the Global Energy Symposium, the Ralph Lowe Energy Institute cultivates innovative, ethical leaders ready to shape the future of energy.
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