John Eads

Founder & Board Chair, Coastal Preservation and Restoration
Houston; Coastal Bend

John Eads is an entrepreneur, energy executive, and conservation advocate whose career reflects professional accomplishment, civic service, and a deep commitment to stewardship. He holds an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from Southern Methodist University and an MBA from The University of Texas. Early in his career, he worked for Aramco Services in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, gaining valuable international experience before returning to the United States. In 1978, he began acquiring oil and gas producing properties — the start of a long and successful career in domestic exploration and production. Over the decades, he developed producing properties and prospects across South Texas, the Texas state waters, Louisiana, Mississippi, the Gulf of Mexico, and Appalachia — work shaped by entrepreneurial determination, practical judgment, and a willingness to pursue opportunity in complex and challenging environments. John has seen the Texas coast through many lenses — as an oil and gas producer, an avid fisherman, and a devoted outdoorsman. Over the past 40 years, he has witnessed firsthand the changes along the coast and the decline of its natural systems. By 2021, the deterioration of the coastal ecosystem had become unmistakable, and he became actively involved in conservation efforts. That commitment led him and his wife, Mary, to found Coastal Preservation and Restoration (CPR) in 2025. Beyond business, John has spent more than four decades serving Houston-area nonprofit and charitable organizations, including Covenant House Texas, Houston Botanic Garden, the Memorial Hermann Foundation, and numerous faith-based organizations. In 2015, he was inducted into the All American Wildcatters, whose motto — “My word is my bond” — reflects a principle that has long guided both his business career and his personal life. His life and career reflect a strong belief in giving back to the community, and in 2026 he was named one of three Houston “Men of Distinction” for his business and philanthropic leadership and impact. John and Mary are the proud parents of four children — Hallie Eads, Chaney Scalzitti, John Carr Eads, and Brandon Trotter — and grandparents to six grandsons and a granddaughter, born in July 2026. Together they enjoy traveling, the coastal outdoors, and watching sunsets with their family.

Professional Affiliation
Founder & CEO, Sierra LLC; member, All American Wildcatters; 50-year career as an energy entrepreneur and leader.

Community & Civic Involvement
Member, TPWD Oyster Advisory Committee; co-founder, Texas Oyster Mariculture Association; Board Director, Memorial Hermann Foundation; past Board Director, Houston Botanic Garden and Covenant House; coastal conservationist.