Charles (“Charlie”) McNeil founded NexGen Resources, utilizing his decades of experience in the energy sector to build a company focused on developing oil, gas and coal resources. McNeil has greatly expanded the scope of his energy business, which now includes holdings in real estate, consumer finance and oral surgery centers. In addition to managing his businesses, McNeil is active in professional and civic organizations in Denver and serves on his alma mater’s board of trustees. The Journal spoke with McNeil about his philosophy of success and his SigEp college experience.

How did you get started in the energy industry?
I’m a mining engineering graduate. I became interested in the energy industry because of the oil embargo in the 1970s and the opportunity to help develop more coal, oil and gas energy resources in the U.S.

What led you to start NexGen?
I always had an interest in running my own company. My entrepreneurial drive was satisfied about 35 years ago when I founded NexGen Resources Corporation for the development of the next generation of energy resources.

How has the industry changed since you entered the field?
The biggest change I’ve seen is the “shale revolution.” Through technological advances in horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing, we produce record volumes of oil and natural gas today. In the ’70s, as a country we reached peak oil, and production was on the decline. Without the technology to release oil and gas molecules in tight shale formations, we could not, as a country, become energy independent.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I’ve had is the challenge that comes with being an entrepreneur. You have to believe in yourself and persevere through difficult times. Risk-taking is part of being an entrepreneur, and with risk comes difficult times.

From the experiences gained over the years, I coined what I call my PIE principles of business and life:

• Persistence, which means never to give up.
• Integrity, which means to be honest in all your interactions.
• Integrity, which means to be honest in all your interactions.

What are your best memories of being an undergraduate member?
The brotherhood provided a solid foundation and common bond during challenging times. With our rigorous engineering studies, having each other’s support was invaluable. We also developed an eternal bond, as we had good and bad times together.

How have you stayed connected to SigEp as an alumnus?
One of our brothers has kept us all connected over the past 50 years through group emails. In September 2023, we celebrated the 100th anniversary of the house and gathered to remember and share the good times we had together.