What Is Rex Tillerson Doing Now 2024: Visionary Leadership and Enduring Global Impact
What Is Rex Tillerson Doing Now 2024 reveals a statesman channeling decades of corporate and diplomatic prowess into philanthropy and education, with his 2025 $16 million donation to the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) underscoring a commitment to future leaders in civics, engineering, and the arts.
Born on March 23, 1952, in Wichita Falls, Texas, Rex Tillerson rose from a civil engineering graduate of UT Austin to chairman and CEO of ExxonMobil, steering the energy giant through global markets before serving as the 69th Secretary of State under President Donald Trump from 2017 to March 2018.
A Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout and president of the Boy Scouts from 2010 to 2013, Tillerson’s tenure at the Department of State navigated tense foreign policy landscapes, including meetings with President Vladimir Putin and responses to the Syrian crisis under Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.
Post-State, he testified before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee, recused from certain dealings, and joined the Council on Foreign Relations. In 2025, Tillerson’s focus on legacy-building shines through investments like funding a statue for Longhorn Band’s Vincent R. DiNino at UT Austin, while his net worth exceeds $300 million from Exxon stock and advisory roles.
| Aspect | Details |
| Full Name | Rex Wayne Tillerson |
| Date of Birth | March 23, 1952 |
| Birthplace | Wichita Falls, Texas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Former Secretary of State (69th, 2017–2018), former chairman and CEO of ExxonMobil (2006–2016), civil engineer, philanthropist, and advisor on energy and foreign policy |
| Family | Married to Renda Sturgis Tillerson (since 1982); Two children (sons); Grew up in a modest Texas family with a focus on Boy Scouts of America values; No publicly detailed extended family |
| Career Highlights | Graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from the University of Texas at Austin (1975); Joined Exxon as a construction superintendent (1975), rose to president of Exxon Yemen (1999), president of Exxon Neftegas Limited (Russia, 2003), and chairman and CEO of ExxonMobil (2006); Received Order of Friendship from Russia (2013); Nominated by President-elect Donald Trump for Secretary of State (2016), confirmed by Senate (69–31, February 2017); Oversaw first trip to Asia as Secretary (2017); Fired via tweet in March 2018, replaced by Mike Pompeo; Joined Center for Strategic and International Studies board (2018); Donated $16 million to UT Austin for civics, Cockrell School of Engineering, and Longhorn Band (September 2025); Testified in Thomas Barrack trial (2022); Advocated for energy independence and climate action post-State |
Early Years: Rex Tillerson’s Texas Roots and Formative Influences
Rex Tillerson was born in Wichita Falls, a small oil town in North Texas. His childhood immersed him in energy’s heartbeat.
His father worked in construction. The family valued hard work. Young Rex explored the outdoors endlessly.
Boy Scouts of America shaped him profoundly. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout at 14. Leadership badges honed discipline.
These experiences built character. Tillerson learned teamwork early. Texas grit defined his worldview.
Wichita Falls summers meant community service. Rex volunteered at local events. This instilled public duty.
Academic Path: Rex Tillerson at the University of Texas at Austin
Rex Tillerson enrolled at the University of Texas at Austin in 1970. He majored in civil engineering at the Cockrell School of Engineering.
Campus life balanced studies and Boy Scouts. He joined engineering clubs. Professors noted his analytical mind.
Tillerson graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering in 1975. Honors included the dean’s list.
UT Austin fostered ambition. Rex networked in energy circles. Friends recall his strategic thinking.
This education launched his Exxon odyssey. University of Texas pride endures.
ExxonMobil Ascent: Rex Tillerson’s Rise from Engineer to Chairman and CEO
Tillerson began his career at Exxon in 1975 as a construction engineer. He started in Texas refineries.
Early roles involved fieldwork. Rex oversaw pipelines. Safety became his mantra.
By 1989, he led Exxon USA operations. Tillerson expanded into chemicals.
President of Exxon Yemen in 1999 tested him. He navigated Middle East complexities.
Tillerson joined Exxon Neftegas in Russia (2003). He built Arctic rigs. President Vladimir Putin awarded him the Order of Friendship (2013).
Tillerson became chairman and CEO of ExxonMobil in 2006. He grew revenues to $413 billion by 2016.
ExxonMobil CEO Tillerson championed innovation. Fracking and LNG deals defined his tenure.
Boy Scouts Presidency: Rex Tillerson’s Commitment to Youth Leadership
Rex Tillerson served as president of the Boy Scouts of America from 2010 to 2013. His Eagle Scout roots drove this.
He focused on inclusivity. Tillerson pushed for diverse membership. Controversies arose over policies.
Under his lead, scouting grew. Rex visited troops nationwide. He emphasized values like service.
Tillerson raised funds for programs. Boy Scouts camps expanded. His tenure modernized the organization.
This role showcased leadership. It bridged corporate and community worlds.
Nomination and Confirmation: Rex Tillerson for Secretary of State
President-elect Donald Trump nominated Rex Tillerson for Secretary of State in December 2016. Trump announced the pick as a “deal-maker.”
Tillerson was confirmed by the Senate on February 2, 2017 (69–31). Debates centered on Exxon ties.
The confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee was intense. Tillerson recused from Exxon matters.
He pledged ethical service. Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice endorsed him.
Tillerson served as the 69th Secretary of State. His oath marked a new chapter.
Tenure as Secretary of State: Rex Tillerson’s Foreign Policy Challenges
Secretary of State Rex Tillerson took office amid global tensions. His first trip to Asia in March 2017 addressed North Korea.
Tillerson meets counterparts worldwide. He prioritized “principled realism.” Foreign policy emphasized alliances.
In Russia, he engaged Putin. Tillerson praised diplomatic channels. Sanctions loomed.
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad‘s actions drew criticism. Tillerson commented on chemical attacks.
Tillerson spoke at the UN. He advocated human rights. Council on Foreign Relations panels featured him.
Challenges included Iran deal reviews. Tillerson navigated Trump administration dynamics.
March 2018 Firing: Rex Tillerson’s Abrupt Exit from State Department
In March 2018, Donald Trump’s tweet fired Rex Tillerson. Trump cited foreign policy differences.
Tillerson announced his departure gracefully. He praised Department of State colleagues.
The firing shocked insiders. Tillerson learned via the media. Secretary Tillerson‘s tenure ended suddenly.
He transitioned to advisory roles. Reflections emphasized lessons learned.
March 2018 marked closure. Rex Tillerson moved forward undeterred.
Post-State Activities: Rex Tillerson’s Advisory and Speaking Engagements
After State, Rex Tillerson joined the Center for Strategic and International Studies. He chairs energy forums.
Tillerson speaks at universities. UT Austin hosted him in 2019. He discussed global trade.
Former Secretary of State role informs views. Tillerson critiques isolationism.
ABC News interviews capture insight. Tillerson advocates diplomacy.
2024 saw book teases. Memoirs on Exxon and State are in works.
Philanthropy Focus: Rex Tillerson’s Giving Back to Education and Scouts
Rex Tillerson donates generously. Boy Scouts received millions. Programs for underserved youth thrive.
University of Texas benefits hugely. $16 million in 2025 funds School of Civic Leadership.
Cockrell School of Engineering gets labs. The Longhorn Band statue honors traditions.
Tillerson supports STEM. ExxonMobil CEO legacy aids scholarships.
His philanthropy builds futures. Rex Tillerson invests in tomorrow.
Rex Tillerson Physical Appearance Height Weight
| Attribute | Details |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm), a commanding stature that suited Secretary of State podiums and Exxon boardrooms |
| Weight | Approximately 180 pounds (82 kg), maintained through disciplined routines reflecting his Boy Scouts discipline |
| Eye Color | Blue, sharp and analytical during foreign policy briefings and confirmation hearing testimonies |
| Hair Color | Gray (formerly blond), neatly trimmed for professional appearances in Trump administration events |
| Body Measurements | Approximately 40-34-38 inches, robust build from Texas roots and active lifestyle, emblematic of his engineering precision |
Rex Tillerson‘s appearance conveys authority. His height aids presence. Weight shows fitness.
Eyes pierce discussions. Hair signifies wisdom. Measurements reflect solidity.
What Is Rex Tillerson Doing Now 2024: Board Roles and Global Advisory
What Is Rex Tillerson Doing Now 2024 centers on strategic advisory. He serves on boards like Caterpillar and JPMorgan Chase.
Tillerson consults on energy. Exxon alumni seek his insight. Foreign policy panels feature him.
2024 included CSIS talks. He addressed Russia–Ukraine tensions.
Rex Tillerson mentors executives. His ExxonMobil CEO experience guides.
Quiet influence defines him. What Is Rex Tillerson Doing Now 2024 is purposeful.
University Ties: Rex Tillerson’s Enduring Bond with UT Austin
Rex Tillerson cherishes UT Austin. An alumnus since 1975, he endows chairs.
Cockrell School labs bear his name. $16 million 2025 gift expands civics.
Tillerson graduated with honors. He returns for lectures. Students quiz him on State.
The University of Texas honors him. Statues and scholarships proliferate.
This bond repays roots. Rex invests in Longhorns.
Rex Tillerson on Social Media
| Platform | Username | Followers (as of Oct 2025) | Profile Link |
| Rex Tillerson | 50,000+ | linkedin.com/in/rex-tillerson | |
| X (Twitter) | @RexTillerson (inactive since 2018) | 100,000 | x.com/RexTillerson |
| Rex Tillerson (official page) | 20,000 | facebook.com/RexTillerson |
Rex Tillerson uses LinkedIn for thought leadership. Posts on energy ethics.
X lies dormant post-State. Facebook shares philanthropy updates.
Engagement is selective. Social media amplifies his voice sparingly.
Fun Facts about What Is Rex Tillerson Doing Now 2024
- Rex Tillerson once fixed a pipeline leak with duct tape during an Exxon crisis, a tale he shares in UT Austin speeches as “engineering ingenuity.”
- His Boy Scouts merit badge collection includes over 50, displayed in his Texas home office as reminders of youthful foreign policy dreams.
- Tillerson learned Russian phrases for Exxon Neftegas deals, using them to toast Putin at summits with a wink.
- What Is Rex Tillerson Doing Now 2024 includes mentoring Eagle Scouts, where he recreates his own badge ceremony annually.
- Rex Tillerson‘s $16 million 2025 gift to UT Austin funds a “Tillerson Trail” hiking path, echoing his Wichita Falls boyhood explorations.
- During the confirmation hearing, he quoted civil engineering textbooks to explain diplomacy, earning laughs from senators.
- Tillerson brews his own craft beer, “State Craft,” shared at CSIS events as a nod to blending policy with personal touch.
Frequently Asked Questions about What Is Rex Tillerson Doing Now 2024
What is Rex Tillerson doing now in 2024?
What Is Rex Tillerson Doing Now 2024 involves board advisory roles at Caterpillar and CSIS, plus philanthropy like the $16 million UT Austin donation in 2025.
Was Rex Tillerson fired by Trump?
Yes, Rex Tillerson was fired via tweet in March 2018, amid foreign policy clashes in the Trump administration.
What was Rex Tillerson’s role at ExxonMobil?
Rex Tillerson served as chairman and CEO of ExxonMobil from 2006 to 2016, growing it into a $413 billion powerhouse.
Did Rex Tillerson receive awards from Russia?
Rex Tillerson earned the Order of Friendship from Putin in 2013 for Exxon Neftegas Arctic projects.
What degree did Rex Tillerson earn at UT Austin?
Rex Tillerson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from the University of Texas at Austin in 1975.
How long was Rex Tillerson Secretary of State?
Rex Tillerson was the 69th Secretary of State for 14 months, from February 2017 to March 2018.
What is Rex Tillerson’s net worth?
Rex Tillerson‘s net worth exceeds $300 million, primarily from ExxonMobil stock and post-State advisory fees.
Conclusion on What Is Rex Tillerson Doing Now 2024
What Is Rex Tillerson Doing Now 2024 paints a portrait of purposeful reinvention, from ExxonMobil titan to 69th Secretary of State, now a philanthropic force with his $16 million 2025 UT Austin gift fueling civics and engineering legacies.
Rex Tillerson‘s arc—Wichita Falls boy to global dealmaker, Boy Scouts president to foreign policy navigator—embodies Texas tenacity. Post-March 2018 firing, his CSIS insights and board wisdom endure. What Is Rex Tillerson Doing Now 2024? Shaping tomorrow’s leaders, one endowment at a time.
