Desk and Derrick Club of Beaumont Records

The Desk and Derrick Club was established in March 1949 as the first professional organization for women working in the oil and gas industry. The founder of the organization was Inez Lord Awty, who worked for the Humble Oil and Refining Company in New Orleans, Louisiana. Two years later, the Association of Desk and Derrick Clubs of North America (ADCC) exploded with 45 clubs and 5,500 members. In 1952, 21 women, representing 10 oil and allied companies in the Sabine area met to form the Beaumont Desk and Derrick Club. The group met at the Hotel Beaumont and received their charter on March 22.

The Desk and Derrick Club’s original mission was to educate and support women who were working in the energy industry. The Club sought to promote a clearer understanding of the petroleum industry through educational programs, as well as to "provide aquaintance and entertainment for the membership." The club published educational materials and raised funds for scholarships that supported students seeking careers in the industry. Today, the Association of Desk and Derrick Clubs (ADDC) still functions as a non-profit organization that provides community and professional development opportunities for those employed in the petroleum and energy industry.