Lindsay Bechtel, Marketing Director for GD Energy Products, is a graduate of the Energy Workforce Executive Leadership Program. She recently shared her insights on the energy services and technology sector.
Energy Workforce: What is your role with the company? What are your core responsibilities? What does a typical day look like?
Lindsay Bechtel: As the Marketing Director of our company, my role is to lead and oversee all aspects of our marketing strategy and activities. This includes developing comprehensive marketing plans, leading our internal communications program, and guiding a team of marketing professionals that make it all happen.
My core responsibilities revolve around driving brand awareness and supporting sales efforts. What I love about marketing is that every day is different and typically involves a mix of strategic planning, team management, and collaboration around the execution of marketing initiatives. Overall, my goal is to drive growth and achieve marketing objectives while maintaining brand integrity, improving customer engagement, and fostering effective internal communication within the organization.
EW: Why did you join the energy industry? Was there an individual who influenced your decision? Was there an event or piece of technology that got you excited?
LB: Originally from California, working in the oil and gas industry was never something that crossed my mind. I got an internship with a marketing agency that specialized in oil and gas during my senior year of college in Louisiana, and I never looked back!
EW: What individual has been most instrumental in helping with your career? What did their mentorship look like and how did it guide your path?
LB: Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors who have played instrumental roles in shaping my professional path. Among them, Tony McLain, my former boss, stands out. Tony’s mentorship was characterized by his unwavering commitment and dedication. He consistently invested time and effort in coaching me, urging me to develop strategic skills to enhance my value to the organization. Under his guidance, I transitioned from an individual contributor to a leader, profoundly shaping my professional trajectory.
EW: What was your impression of the industry beforehand and how has it evolved?
LB: Not long ago, our industry lacked advocates highlighting the positive impact our industry was making on society. They stayed out of politics, kept their heads down and continued to deliver energy to fuel our modern lives regardless of what activists or media headlines boasted. I am so proud of all the individuals and companies who have chosen to stand up and develop their own narrative positively advocating for our industry!
EW: What has surprised you most about the industry?
LB: While the industry is big, the workforce within is small and tight knit. Once individuals enter the oilfield, they tend to stick around for the long haul, leading to familiar faces at industry events. Someone may be your competitor one day, then a customer or colleague the next. It is important that you never burn bridges because you never know how your paths might cross again in the future.
EW: Where do you hope to see the industry develop over the next five years?
LB: I hope the industry develops a more positive reputation so we can attract young and bright talent to continue to propel our industry forward.
EW: What role do you believe you will play in the industry’s future?
LB: Being in marketing, my goal is to help communicate the positive stories happening within and because of our industry.
EW: How has your involvement in Energy Workforce supported your career goals?
LB: I was given the opportunity to go through the Executive Leadership Program which enabled me to learn alongside other industry professionals in cross-functional roles. I have since joined the Emerging Executives Committee and am excited to see how I can get more involved.
EW: Who are one or two individuals you’ve met while working in the industry who have impacted your thinking?
LB: One individual who has significantly influenced my perspective is Larry Kerr, CEO of GDEP. Larry’s distinctive leadership approach has left a lasting impression on me. He embodies the qualities of a true coach, inspiring and empowering others to achieve greatness. Larry’s unwavering commitment to the personal and professional development of his team is remarkable. His genuine investment in people and their growth is evident to all who interact with him. Larry’s leadership is widely admired, with many considering him one of the greatest leaders of our time.
EW: What’s a technology or innovation you’ve seen in the sector that impressed you?
LB: One innovation that continues to impress me is the evolution of hydraulic fracturing technology and the ongoing advancements made by the service sector to optimize its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
EW: What advice would you give someone just getting started in the energy industry?
LB: Put yourself out there and say yes as often as possible. It will change your life!
EW: What do you wish other people knew about oil and gas?
LB: One thing I wish more people knew about oil and gas is the critical role it plays in powering our modern world. It’s not just about fueling cars; it’s about providing energy for heating, electricity generation, manufacturing, and countless other essential activities. Plus, the industry continually innovates to minimize its environmental impact and enhance sustainability.
EW: What do you do for fun or what’s your idea of a perfect vacation?
LB: I have a husband and two little ones at home, and we love to travel to new places! I am also a big foodie and enjoy good wine 😊
EW: What’s a fun fact people would never guess about you?
LB: I was a collegiate athlete and played volleyball for the University of Louisiana Lafayette.
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