Bill Ballard

Dr. Ballard is well known for his business savvy and generosity to the Billings community. His renowned career began when he joined partner Bill Cronoble to form Balcron Oil Co. in Billings in 1963. After selling the company, he formed Ballard Petroleum in 1992 to develop leases, and grow assets and reserves. He remains chairman and CEO, still actively working with his sons Dave and Jeff. Ballard Petroleum employs 30 people in Billings and 17 in Gillette, Wyo.

Ballard was instrumental in developing a geology degree at Rocky Mountain College. Many of the program graduates stay and work in Montana, employed by Ballard Petroleum. He is passionate about quality healthcare and education, and he has given major financial support to Riverstone Health, Billings Clinic, St. Vincent Healthcare and Rocky Mountain College.

Ballard has served as director on Billings Clinic and Rocky Mountain College boards for decades. He has also served on the boards of the Rotary Club and the Montana Petroleum Association.