SOAE 2025: Louisiana Strength, Individual Achievements Linked to Oil and Natural Gas

Alex Leif
Posted February 14, 2025

Big Idea: American oil and natural gas mean much more than fuel and keeping the lights on. They are foundational to our national security and our country’s economic strength – seen individually in the accomplishments of small business owners such as Alta Baker.

Key Context: The success of millions like Alta – whose company in Jennings, La., builds blast-resistant structures for a range of customers including the military and energy companies like Shell and ExxonMobil – is a byproduct of a resilient domestic energy economy, supported by smart policy.

American Success Story: A former Calcasieu Parish teacher, Alta got the idea for her business after taking over her father’s construction firm, and when she was forced to seek shelter during an emergency event at an industrial facility. “They told us to run, then told us the nearest safe haven was a lunch tent. … For months after that, I kept telling my husband, ‘John, I want to build safe structures,’” Alta said.

• She founded Safe Haven Enterprises and has shipped products worldwide. Her business is also part of her hometown’s proud history related to oil and natural gas. (Jennings had the Bayou State’s first oil well in 1901, which earned it the nickname, the “cradle of Louisiana oil.”)
• Alta’s business not only embodies this nickname, it also supports the livelihood of other small businesses by employing skilled workers, tradespeople and other related vendors. And her business will remain family oriented as she passes the reins to her daughter, Vicki.
• Alta says her participation in the API Supplier Development Program with Blue Wave, featuring API industry standards and supplier workshops, have strengthened her company’s safety training programs and equipped her with valuable tools to compete and win.

Alta Baker (right) and her daughter and business partner, Vicki.

State Of American Energy: Last month, Alta and Vicki were special guests at API’s annual energy policy event in Washington, D.C. Leaders in American energy convened to discuss the important role the oil and natural gas industry plays in bolstering America’s geopolitical strength and keeping the lights on with affordable, abundant energy.

API President and CEO Mike Sommers, from his State of American Energy speech:

“America’s energy future begins now. Together, we have the opportunity – and the responsibility – to lead it. By advancing bold policies and working hand-in-hand across sectors, we can ensure America is a global energy powerhouse, supporting families and delivering lasting progress for generations to come.” 

Bottom Line: Alta’s story is a prime example of how energy security helps ensure economic prosperity and national security. Pro-energy policies empower her and others to secure our future.