Managing Non-Technical Risks in Energy

Program Overview 

The energy industry is navigating an era of complex transitions, from evolving stakeholder expectations and social license to operate, to increasing regulatory scrutiny, climate impacts, and geopolitical uncertainty. These developments have intensified the need for energy companies to proactively manage a range of non-technical risks, risks that are often outside traditional engineering or operational scopes but have significant implications for project success and long-term resilience.

To meet this need, UH Energy at the University of Houston offers the Managing Non-Technical Risks in Energy Program, a professional development opportunity designed to equip energy professionals with practical tools, skills, and frameworks to navigate today’s risk environment. Whether you're new to non-technical risk management or seeking to strengthen your organization’s approach, this program provides the insight and structure needed to integrate social, environmental, reputational, and stakeholder risks into enterprise-wide risk strategies. 

Credentialing Overview 

Instruction for each badge consists of two modules, with each module includes 10-hour hybrid learning sessions with lectures, group discussions, and in-person interactive opportunities over a 4-week period. Specifically,

Each badge consists of:

• 2 modules

• 5 virtual learning sessions (1.5 hours each) per module

• 1 in-person group engagement session (2 hours) per module

• Interactive case studies and applied learning

Participants must complete assessments and meet performance standards to earn each badge. Badges can be taken individually or as part of a 3-badge series that forms a comprehensive development pathway in managing non-technical risks.

By the end of the program, you’ll be able to:

• Define and categorize key non-technical risks in energy operations

• Apply frameworks to assess environmental and social impacts, risks, and opportunities

• Design stakeholder engagement plans that reflect community expectations

• Identify emerging risks, such as climate and reputational risks

• Strengthen alignment with permitting, compliance, and governance requirements  

Schedule 

Instruction for each badge consists of two modules, five virtual learning sessions (1.5 hrs each) per module, one in-person group engagement session (2 hrs) per module, and interactive case studies and applied learning experiences. 

Pricing 

Individual Badges (1, 2, or 3): $499.00 per badge 

Packages (3-Badge Bundle):  

• 3-Badge Bundle: $1497.00 (each badge is $499.00)

* Groups of 5 applicants from a single company will have discounted price. Please email us at uhenergy@uh.edu for more information.  

Prerequisites 

This course is appropriate for: 

• Industry Professionals: Applicants from within the energy sector, who may have roles in defining and managing Non-Technical Risks, in functions including C-Suite and Senior Management, Operations, Project Management, Supply Chain, Public and Government Affairs, Sustainability, Health Safety Environment (HSE), Communications, Investor Relations, Community Relations, and other consulting-type roles.

• Aspiring Energy Industry Professionals: Anyone who aspires to work in the energy industry or is already in working to develop and build skills and competencies in Non-Technical Risk Management.