Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Mark Varhaug as chair of the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists. The Governor also named Eric Anderson, Ph.D., Rusty Branch, P.G., and Jeremy Ransom to serve on the Board, with terms ending February 1, 2031. The Board is responsible for setting fees related to applications, examinations, licensure, and renewals for professional geoscientists in Texas. Examination fees are determined by the costs involved in preparing and grading those exams.
Mark Varhaug is president of Beacon Hill Energy and brings over four decades of geology experience. He has served on the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists since 2018. Varhaug holds memberships in several geological organizations and volunteers with the Norwegian Society of Texas. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Southern Methodist University.
Eric Anderson leads Mitigation Resources of North America and is certified in soil science by the Board. He participates in professional associations such as the Ecological Restoration Business Association and James F. Taylor Masonic Lodge 169. Anderson’s academic background includes degrees from Stephen F. Austin State University and North Carolina State University.
Rusty Branch serves as vice president and senior geoscientist at Gehrig, Inc., holding certification from the Board as well. He has held leadership roles in various community organizations including Scouting America (formerly Boys Scouts of America), Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists, American Society of Civil Engineers Geo-Institute, and Fort Worth Community Emergency Response Team. Branch completed his studies at Tarleton State University, Baylor University, and UT Arlington.
Jeremy Ransom works as strategic relationship director at Bluespring Wealth Partners. His service record includes board positions with Hospice Austin, Make-A-Wish Central and South Texas, The Legacy Ranch Youth Football and Cheer, as well as honorable discharge from the United States Marine Corps. Ransom’s educational credentials span institutions such as Texas Tech University, Baylor University, UT Austin, and Mitchell Hamline School of Law.
