Philip Hebb, Maintenance Superintendent, Helmerich & Payne, is a recent graduate of the Operations Leadership Program. He shared his thoughts on the energy services and technology sector.
ENERGY WORKFORCE: What is your role with the company? What does a typical day look like?
Philip Hebb: I have been the Well Control Systems Superintendent for Helmerich & Payne since 2013. I manage the Well Control Equipment and Technicians for all U.S. Land except for our West Texas Operation. From time to time, I also assist our offshore and international operations when my experience is needed.
A typical day for me looks a lot like the roller coaster on the card we were given during our training in Houston. Essentially, my day consists of making sure my employees are up to speed with current operations and job tasks that are taking place. This consists of trouble shooting equipment failures, scheduling equipment rotations to follow API regulations, billing for jobs that take place, as well as participating in meetings with my teams and customers.
EW: What was your impression of the industry beforehand, and how has it evolved?
PH: My first impression of the oil and gas industry was intimidating. There were a lot of moving parts, with an endless amount of work to be completed. The day-to-day tasks could be dangerous with the perception of “Just get it done.” Now I see the industry striving for efficiency but more importantly, keeping the safety of our employees a priority. All the while, being conscious of the economical impact our industry has.
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?
PH: I would have to say that I, myself, have been the most instrumental part of my career, and I honestly believe that to be true for anyone. You must be motivated and eager to work and learn your skill or trade. My parents raised me and my siblings to know that nothing will ever be handed to you … if you want it, go earn it. I have had several individuals throughout the course of my career that have each inspired or lead me down the right path.
EW: What role do you believe you will play in the industry’s future? What is your favorite thing about your role?
PH: I believe my role in the industry will and should be to mentor the people that report to me. Building them up and giving them the best chance to succeed. Our people are the future of the industry. What I believe is the most rewarding part of my role would be watching individuals I have mentored in the past and present succeed and advance their career opportunities within the company.
EW: Who are one or two individuals you’ve met while working in the industry who have impacted your thinking?
PH: Warren Hubler was our VP for HSE and had an impact on me just by the way he cared for people. He had several impactful stories of personal experiences and had a way of telling those stories that made it personal for me and made me strive to care for my people the way that he did.
EW: What advice would you give someone just getting started in the energy industry?
PH: Be smart with your money. Pay yourself out of every check and put it away to save. The oil and gas industry has its ups and downs and having that savings will be there when or if you ever need it.
Pay attention to your surroundings. There are several operations taking place at the same time on any given location. Being aware of your surroundings will get you back home to your family safely.
Ask plenty of questions. You don’t know what you don’t know. There’s nothing wrong with asking questions and learning something new.
EW: What’s do you do for fun?
PH: I enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter, regardless of what it may be. I like hunting and fishing — being outdoors in general. Traveling to the beach or to the mountains, going to football or baseball games or watching them on TV. I also enjoy wood working, and building or repairing things.
EW: What’s your idea of a perfect vacation?
PH: My idea of a perfect vacation is being on a beach or in the mountains without a cell phone or cell phone signal with my wife and daughter, having them all to myself.
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