Laura joined Caterpillar in 2014 as Regional Chief Economist for the Energy and Transportation group. E&T includes a diverse set of industries, from electric power and oil & gas to marine and rail. In this role, she advises the E&T segments on the current macroeconomic conditions and forecasts that impact their industries in addition to forecasting oil and natural gas prices for the company. Prior to joining CAT, Laura has extensive prior experience in the Energy sector, having spent 15 years with Southern Company, one of the largest electric utilities in the US and its subsidiaries.  In addition, Laura holds a PhD in Applied Economics from Clemson University.