What influenced your decision to enter the oil and gas industry?
My location and my family have been significant influences in my career. I was born and raised in Houston, have lived here most of my life, and received both my undergraduate and graduate degrees here. Additionally, both my father and sister work in the industry, and they encouraged me start my career in this field. I’m very thankful to have had their support throughout my journey.
What was your impression of the industry beforehand and how has it evolved?
Before I was involved with oil and gas, I thought of the industry in very broad terms and was naïve about its intricacies. My position at LoneStar has exposed me to all of the various aspects of oil and gas, and has really changed my perspective. I learn new things about the industry daily and it’s fascinating to learn how all the elements of the oil and gas industry interconnect. It’s a never-ending education.
What have you found to be the most surprising about the industry?
How much there is to it! It can be overwhelming at times to process how all the pieces fit together to, ultimately, provide energy to the world.
What do you find most challenging and most rewarding about the industry or your work?
Marketing during a downturn can be challenging. However, I welcome such a challenge – it forces you to think and innovate. Knowing that I’m part of a great organization that produces quality products makes my job much easier.
With my work, it’s incredibly rewarding to see my contributions help my team and the organization at large. I recently finished coordinating my company’s participation in the Offshore Technology Conference, and the LoneStar brand and overall image were my responsibility. It was important to me that my colleagues were proud of what we presented, especially at such a large industry event. It’s very rewarding to hear their feedback and see them proud to “live the LoneStar brand”.
Where do you hope to see the industry develop over the next 5 years?
I hope to see the continuation of technology advances and mutually beneficial collaborative efforts throughout the industry.
What role do you believe you will play in the industry’s future?
I am part of the next generation of the oil and gas industry workforce, so it’s great that organizations like PESA are investing in programs like the Emerging Leaders Committee. As a member of this group of up-and-coming industry professionals, I recognize that we need the guidance and expertise of industry veterans to be successful and bring the industry into the future.
How has your involvement in PESA supported your career goals?
I’ve been exposed me to many opportunities that I would not have been able to experience otherwise. I’ve attended some great events and networked with people I would never have met thanks to my participation and membership with PESA. These types of connections all support my personal development, which is crucial to career success.
Tell us about some of the people you’ve met while working in the industry and how they’ve impacted your thinking.
Since I started working in the industry, I’ve encountered a number of fascinating people, and I’m always amazed by their knowledge and expertise. However, two people in particular come to mind. My boss, LoneStar Group CEO Santosh Mathilakath, has always taken the time to share his knowledge and constantly challenges me to see things from a different perspective. He is the person who encouraged me to become involved with the Emerging Leaders Committee, and the resulting experiences have been invaluable. In addition, PESA President Leslie Beyer has inspired me by demonstrating that although this industry may be male-dominated, there are more than enough opportunities for a woman to make her mark. As a well-respected industry leader with many accomplishments, she is one of my role models.
What are you most excited about for your career, your company and your industry?
I’m eager to see how my role will evolve and expand. It’s a dynamic industry, and as a result our needs are constantly changing. I look forward to contributing to my organization on more global level.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about entering the oil and gas industry?
Go for it! The oil and gas industry powers the world, and it’s exciting to be a part of it. There are so many career options within the industry, and the possibilities are endless for those seeking an opportunity.
What do you wish other people knew about oil and gas?
Oil and gas is so much more than how much it costs to fill up your tank. If those outside the industry took a little time to be more educated about the industry, they would see the bigger picture and know that everything we do comes together to power the world and make modern life possible.
