Ronnie K. Irani has been named the recipient of the 2025 Legacy Award by the Petroleum Alliance of Oklahoma.

The award, presented by each outgoing chairman of the Alliance, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the organization and the broader oil and natural gas industry.

Irani was formally honored at the Alliance’s Annual Meeting on June 5 during the Chairman’s Banquet, when outgoing Chairman Chad McDoguall presented him with the award.

A Petroleum Alliance Chairman Emeritus, Irani led the capital campaign to construct the organization’s headquarters, the central hub for advocacy, coordination, and leadership for Oklahoma’s oil and natural gas industry.

With a career spanning over four decades, Irani has been instrumental in shaping the energy landscape of Oklahoma and beyond. He is the founder and CEO of RKI Energy Resources, LLC, a privately held company based in Oklahoma City. Previously, he founded RKI Exploration & Production in 2005 and built it into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise before its sale in 2015.

Prior to forming the RKI companies, Irani was Senior VP and General Manager with Dominion Resources after previously serving in senior executive positions for Louis Dreyfus Natural Gas Corp. and Woods Petroleum Corporation.

Irani’s leadership extends beyond corporate achievements. He has been actively involved in various educational and philanthropic endeavors. Notably, he has supported the University of Oklahoma through initiatives like the Ronnie K. Irani Center for Energy Solutions and the Ronnie K. Irani Center for the Creation of Economic Wealth. His commitment to education and community development underscores his dedication to fostering the next generation of energy professionals.

“The Legacy Award not only honors Ronnie’s professional accomplishments but also his unwavering commitment to the advancement of the oil and gas industry and his community,” McDougall said. “His leadership and philanthropic efforts have left an indelible mark, making him a deserving recipient of this prestigious recognition.”