WOMEN are restructuring the workforce one industry and sector at a time. In Guyana, while still a fairly new sector, women are pressing onward to pursue careers in the oil and gas industry.
One woman that is taking this leap is Nikita (only name given), a Well Operations Supervisor with ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL).
In a video produced recently by Exxon Mobil’s BuildHer Talks, which serves to highlight women who lead at EMGL, Nikita was identified as being among the very first Guyanese women to take roles in their respective fields.
Asked about her journey into leadership in oil and has, Nikita said her journey was not always easy; however, she remained consistent, kept learning, and improved herself through her work.
“Being the only woman in the room has taught me resilience, confidence and how to believe in my own ability,” Nikita said, adding, “It feels rewarding and humbling. Sometimes I still reflect on how far I’ve come and appreciate the opportunity.”
Explaining what her role entails, Nikita shared that they provide oversight on all the drilling in operations offshore, adding, “So, we’re there to make sure that we drill those wells according to the procedures outlined by our well engineers.”
Further, Nikita said that there were moments when her mentors would have pushed her into opportunities that she didn’t think she was quite ready for. This, however, helped her to grow over time and build confidence in herself.
Reflecting, she said mentorship has taught her patience, confidence, and how to be a team player. She related that because of her various mentors, she is now able to encourage other persons who may come to her for guidance, sharing her knowledge, and helping them to believe they are just as capable.
Offering words of encouragement to women who may not see themselves in technical or offshore roles like hers, Nikita said, “You don’t have to know everything from the start. Be willing to learn, work hard and believe that you belong in the room as well.
She added, “we all have a place in this industry and don’t believe what you hear that, ‘oh, women can’t do it and you can’t succeed in a man’s world.’ You can. If you put in the hard work, you come into the field with an open mind, you can excel as well.”
Nikita noted that she is proud to be a leader in this field. Her goal is to keep growing and learning, becoming a better person in both her professional and personal life.
