The Chief Roughneck Award has presented annually since 1955 by U.S. Steel Tubular Products, Inc., a subsidiary of United States Steel Corporation. It honors the highest ideals of the petroleum industry and is awarded to honor the achievements and character of a petroleum executive. Recently it has been presented at the annual meeting of the Independent Petroleum Association of America in San Antonio, Texas.
The bronze Joe Roughneck bust, created by Torg Thompson and presented to each Chief Roughneck recipient, began life in Lone Star Steel Company print advertising.
Joe Roughneck's sculpture has been dedicated in several oil patch parks, saluted by governors, and featured in newspaper and magazine articles.
The award is recognized as one of the most meaningful honors in the industry; the award and the character behind it symbolize the spirit, determination, leadership and integrity of individuals who have made a lasting impression on the energy industry.