API'S MISSION IS TO INFLUENCE PUBLIC POLICY IN SUPPORT OF A STRONG, VIABLE U.S. OIL AND NATURAL GAS INDUSTRY ESSENTIAL TO MEET THE ENERGY NEEDS OF CONSUMERS IN AN EFFICIENT, ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE MANNER. API ALSO PROVIDES THE OPPORTUNITY FOR STANDARDS DEVELOPMENT, TECHNICAL COOPERATION AND OTHER ACTIVITIES TO IMPROVE THE INDUSTRY'S COMPETITIVENESS THROUGH SPONSORSHIP OF SELF-SUPPORTING PROGRAMS. THIS CHAPTER WAS FORMED BY MEMBERS OF LOCAL INDUSTRY DESIRING TO SUPPORT A VARIETY OF LOCAL EDUCATIONAL, INDUSTRY OR COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS.