Zoe Suren, Managing Director, EnergiLink

As we pass International Women’s Day on March 8th, it is important to acknowledge the value of diverse perspectives in the subsurface industry. While the industry is traditionally male dominated, we should also recognise how far the industry has come already in promoting inclusivity, and how continuing this progress will benefit everyone. Encouraging a balanced workforce contributes to a more innovative sector that can rise to the potential challenges of the future.

The Value of Diversity

The subsurface industry (Exploration and Production (E&P) in oil and gas, as well as sectors like Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS), hydrogen, lithium, and helium), plays a critical role in the global energy transition. A diverse workforce, one that includes a strong representation of both men and women, enhances problem-solving, decision-making, and overall business success. This allows for more varied perspectives which in-turn improves profitability.

Encouraging Inclusive Leadership in the Subsurface Industry

The industry benefits when leadership is composed of individuals with different backgrounds and approaches. Encouraging more women to step into leadership roles alongside their male colleagues fosters an environment where new ideas can thrive. This enhances the importance inclusive hiring practices to build more diverse and resilient teams.

Encouraging a workplace culture that supports career growth for all employees, regardless of their gender, ensures that opportunities are based on capability. This and providing flexible working conditions will help to ensure that all talented individuals can contribute to the subsurface industry.  Ultimately, this should improve the industry’s ability to attract a more diverse talent pool including men and women.

A Global Call to Action

With roles available on a global scale, now is the time to embrace a more inclusive future in the subsurface industry. The transition to a more sustainable energy landscape requires diverse leadership, and expertise. By ensuring that all qualified professionals, both men and women, have opportunities to enter leadership positions the industry will benefit overall from the increased diversity of thought and proficiencies.

This International Women’s Day let’s celebrate progress and commit to furthering it. If you are an open-minded Reservoir Engineer or Geoscientist looking for an opportunity to make an impact, we encourage you make yourselves known. Now is the time to build on the steps we have already taken and works towards an even more inclusive and progressive future!

KeyFacts Energy Industry Directory: EnergiLink