Lori Mettille
Lori Mettille was confident about her tax expertise but nervous about her lack of familiarity with oil and gas when she applied for a job in 2006 with Hein & Associates, an accounting firm later acquired by Moss Adams that specialized in the energy space.
Her future mentor, Duane Snyder, the firm’s tax practice leader in Dallas, had no such concerns. “I’ll teach you that,” he said, and her career in energy was launched.
Snyder’s influence transcended the knowledge he imparted about the ins and outs of oil and gas tax work. He showed her how to lead.
“He taught me to always ‘train your replacement,’ which has been one of the most rewarding parts of the profession—watching those that you have had some small part in training move up through the organization,” Mettille said. “This has also allowed me the opportunities to take on roles like oil and gas national practice leader. He also taught me the real value of teamwork and that the team is always behind you.”
Mettille does not hesitate to join her team in the trenches when working on a client project.
“I actively engage alongside my team members, demonstrating that I am willing to roll up my sleeves and tackle any tasks necessary to meet deadlines. This hands-on approach, instilled in me by many of the leaders who trained me, not only fosters a collaborative environment but also reinforces the idea that we are all in this together, striving for a common goal,” she said. “I have always believed that by actively participating in the work, I can provide real-time guidance and feedback, helping my team members grow and learn in the process. I believe that empowering our team members is essential for building a strong foundation for the future, as it prepares them to take on greater responsibilities and eventually step into leadership roles themselves.”
That accessibility to her team and actively providing support has paid off in what they are able to accomplish.
“Many of us have worked together for a long time and they have become my work ‘family,’” Mettille said. “This sense of camaraderie fosters an environment where we can rely on one another, knowing that we have each other’s backs in both challenges and triumphs, both at work and outside of work.”
After mastering the tax rules applicable to the oil and gas industry, Mettille advanced in her career by sharing what she had learned.
“My goal has been to establish myself as a ‘famous person’ in the industry by serving as a speaker for various industry conferences, collaboration with external partners as well as participation in various organizations, including COPAS (Council of Petroleum Accountants Societies) of Dallas where I have been a member for many years,” she said. “This also led to my participation on the NAPAC (North American Petroleum Accounting Conference) Committee, including leading the Tax Tract Planning Committee.”
Mettille advises those entering the field to grow along with the growing industry.
“I would encourage young professionals entering the energy industry to embrace the unique opportunities it offers,” she said. “This is a dynamic field that is continually evolving. As the industry transforms, it’s essential for us to adapt and grow alongside it, which keeps our work engaging throughout our careers. Embracing change and being open to learning will not only enhance your skill set but also make your career journey that much more fulfilling.”
Check out the rest of Hart Energy's 2025 Women in Energy here.
- I grew up on a cotton farm in Midkiff, Texas, southeast of Midland, which contributed to my work ethic as there were many hot summers spent working in the cotton fields. My mom is one of the hardest working people I know, to this day, and instilled that work ethic in me which has been one of the keys to achieving my ambitions. Equally as important, she also instilled in me my faith, humility and servant leadership.
- I have become really good at working, when needed, from softball fields across the Dallas Metroplex. I have two beautiful daughters who play competitive softball, so we spend countless hours weekly at practices, private lessons and tournaments. In all fairness, my husband, Mark, takes the brunt of this. We joke that he is the girls “Uber” driver.
- My husband and I were married at a Catholic church in Grapevine near the Gaylord Texan Resort. Because he also grew up on a farm in Iowa, he was insistent on taking care of the transportation from the reception to the Gaylord. We were probably the only couple whose transportation from the reception to the Gaylord was on a trailer pulled by a John Deere tractor. In spite of the fumes, the wedding party had a great time, and we certainly received some interesting looks as we arrived at the Gaylord.