TEXARKANA, USA – The Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce will host the inaugural State of Lithium on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 11:30a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn and Convention Center. The event will bring together industry leaders, business professionals, elected officials, educators, and community stakeholders to explore one of the most significant economic opportunities emerging across Arkansas and Texas.
As lithium development continues to expand within the Smackover Formation, the region is positioned to play an increasingly important role in strengthening America's domestic energy supply chain. State of Lithium was created to provide the community with factual, educational insight into the rapidly evolving industry while highlighting the opportunities and challenges that accompany this transformational moment.
The program will begin with a Lithium 101 presentation designed to provide attendees with a foundational understanding of lithium, its applications, extraction methods, and why the resource has become critical to the nation's energy future. Following the educational briefing, attendees will hear from some of the industry's leading voices during a panel discussion focused on innovation, economic development, workforce needs, infrastructure, and the future of lithium production in the region.
Lithium 101 Panel:
Arthur Oduna, Executive Director of Venture Center
Dana Poindexter, Regional Manager of Arkansas Economic Development Commission, Southwest Arkansas
John Burba, CTO & Founder of International Battery Metals, Ltd
Lithium Leader Panel:
Randy Zook, CEO of Arkansas State Chamber
Teague Egan, CEO & Founder of EnergyX
Matthew McCowan, U.S. Lithium Manager of ExxonMobil
Jennifer Wilding, General Manager, Asset Development for Chevron New Energies
"State of Lithium is about bringing together experts and our community to better understand an industry that has the potential to shape the future of our region for decades to come," said Robin Hickerson, President & CEO of the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce. "Our goal is to provide a trusted space where attendees can learn directly from industry leaders and gain valuable insight into the opportunities that lie ahead."
Designed for business leaders, elected officials, workforce partners, educators, and community members alike, State of Lithium will offer a balanced look at the industry's current landscape and its potential impact on regional economic growth, job creation, investment, and innovation.
Event Details
State of Lithium
Wednesday, July 15, 2026
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.(Lunch and Doors will open at 11:00 a.m.) Texarkana Convention Center
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities remain available. To register or learn more, visit the Chamber's event calendar or contact the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce at (903) 792-7191 or [email protected]. Event information is also available through the Chamber's website.
