The Council of Petroleum Accountants Societies (COPAS) was created to provide a forum for discussing and solving the more difficult problems related to accounting for oil & gas. These discussions frequently have resulted in the creation of guideline documents and educational materials. The emphasis of COPAS is in the work of its Standing and Special Committees at the national level, with a corresponding committee structure working at the local society level.

COPAS is recognized throughout the petroleum industry as a leader in its field, with its membership of professionals dedicated to quality service to the petroleum industry. COPAS is known domestically and internationally for its expertise in petroleum accounting. COPAS has grown to 23 local Societies and over 2700 members in the United States and Canada.

COPAS has a strong emphasis in providing quality educational materials related to oil & gas accounting. COPAS offers educational opportunities through the Accredited Petroleum Accountant Program (APA). Successful candidates in the APA Program are recognized as possessing the body of knowledge needed to be an effective Petroleum Accountant.

The New Orleans chapter of COPAS became a charter member in 1961, but the roots of the local society can be traced back to 1955 when the organization was known as the Petroleum Accountant Society of New Orleans (PASNO).