After graduating from Sul Ross in 1982 with a Bachelor of Science in Geology, Lawrence Downing worked in the oil and gas industry across Texas, navigating the difficulties of a volatile market. In 1999, he pivoted to the electric utility industry, and in 2008, founded Downing Power Consulting, a company that helps Texas businesses manage energy procurement and navigate the complexities of the deregulated electricity market. Lawrence R. Downing and his wife, Deanie, live in Midland. They have four children and one grandchild.