In this episode of Fueling Tomorrow, host Erin Bailey sits down with Congressman August Pfluger to discuss his journey from U.S. Air Force fighter pilot to representing Texas’s 11th District in Washington, D.C. Pfluger reflects on his military career, his unexpected entry into politics, and why he believes energy security is national security.From stories of flying combat missions overseas to championing the Permian Basin on Capitol Hill, Congressman Pfluger shares how his experiences shaped his leadership and passion for protecting America’s energy future. He highlights his role in bringing colleagues to West Texas to see firsthand the importance of oil and gas, his push for permitting reform, and his vision for bipartisan cooperation.Chapters00:00 – Welcome with Erin Bailey00:34 – From Fighter Pilot to Congress02:50 – Lessons Learned Entering Politics03:30 – Representing 20+ Texas Counties05:25 – Standing Up for Oil & Gas07:30 – Hosting Congress Members in the Permian Basin09:30 – Changing Perspectives on Fracking11:00 – Mentors and Energy Leaders Who Shaped His Work12:00 – Chairing the House Energy Action Team14:00 – Building Bipartisan Support for Energy Policy15:30 – A Defining Military Moment Fighting ISIS17:50 – Long-Term Goals for Texas’s 11th District20:10 – Congressman Pfluger’s Favorite Things About West Texas22:00 – Baseball Games & Proud Legislative Wins24:50 – Closing Thoughts on Community and Service