The American Association of Drilling Engineers (AADE) is a non-profit (IRS 501-6C), volunteer organization founded in New Orleans in 1978 and is made up of an affiliation of independent chapters licensed and governed by a National Board. The early success and acceptance of this effort led to the expansion of AADE. Eleven chapters are now active in New Orleans, Lafayette, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Midland (Permian Basin), Oklahoma City-Tulsa (Mid-continent), Denver, Bakersfield (West Coast), Anchorage, Coraopolis, PA (Appalachian Basin) and Central Texas (San Antonio). National membership is nearing 6,000 active members, and has remained steady despite the fluctuations experienced by the industry. AADE offers a forum for the exchange of information, among its members and guests, specifically on drilling related topics. AADE chapters also offer all-day forums as well as annual multi day technical conferences to provide the opportunity for industry experts to present in depth coverage on current topics and latest technology.