70 www. ceotodaymagazine . com What got you into the oil and gas industry? I headed to the drilling rigs during an internship in university and found the excitement and energy contagious. I remember getting called out to a wellsite that was experiencing a kick (pressure downhole) that could cause a blowout, which could be catastrophic. When I showed up on-site the gas line was rumbling, crews were running to control the dangerous well conditions and the flare stack was 75 feet high! As the engineer in charge of the drilling fluid it was my responsibility to modify the chemistry and the flow dynamics of the fluid to control the high pressure gas kick. Luckily, my calculations were correct and my directions to the crew were clear and concise, preventing a potentially life threatening situation to everyone on site, as H2S poisonous gas was also a factor. It was a crazy experience to start my career, yet it solidified my direction to focus on the technical aspects of oil and gas, with the goal to improve safety and reduce environmental impact. As an environmental engineer, why did you decide to work in the oil industry? My father always told me that if you want to make a difference you have to work hard and contribute to the change you want to see. Fossil fuels are essential in our world. Being a part of the oil and gas industry – and understanding the issues from a boots-on-the-ground perspective, provided me with opportunities to make a positive contribution through science and technology. I was always focused on a win for the environment, a win for our clients and a win for our company. What does it take to patent and bring a new product to market? Faith, perseverance, hard work and some blood, sweat and tears. Facing obstacles and CEO Today Gl oba l Awa rds 202 2 My father always told me that if you want to make a difference you have to work hard and contribute to the change you want to see.
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