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PESA High-Performer Spotlight: Michael Chiock, Managing Director, AlixPartners

Michael Chiock, Managing Director, AlixPartners

Michael Chiock, Managing Director, AlixPartners

What influenced your decision to enter the oil and gas industry?
I was given the opportunity to work on a consulting project in oil and gas many, many years ago. And after that, I was hooked. This industry is a big part of the American fabric and a strong contributor to our economy. It’s one of the many reasons why I enjoy working in the oil and gas industry and continue to stay involved.

What was your impression of the industry beforehand and how has it evolved?
I used to pull into a gas station and fill up my car without ever thinking much about it. How did the fuel get there? Where did it come from? And I never thought about it being a resource that runs out.

Now I not only understand what it takes to make fueling your car so simple, but truly appreciate the companies and people who make it happen!

What have you found to be the most surprising about the industry?
The resiliency after the 2015 downturn has been incredible. The innovation and the ability to compete in the global market shows the true power of the American spirit and ingenuity.

What do you find most challenging and most rewarding about the industry or your work?
The most rewarding part of the industry is the impact oil and gas companies can have with job creation. From equipment manufacturers to distributors to service companies, our industry has great potential for job creation.

Where do you hope to see the industry develop over the next five years?
We have an opportunity to turn the oilfield into a much leaner operating structure. Taking a look at how manufacturing lines work – while not a “perfect” environment like an enclosed manufacturing plant – there are many elements that we can use to become even more efficient.

What role do you believe you will play in the industry’s future?
I look forward to continuing my work with management teams, identifying ways to increase profitability. From sales and operations to digital ideas, there could be value to unlock in the oil patch, and I’m always happy to help.

How has your involvement in PESA supported your career goals?
I’ve learned so much from the different events that PESA hosts. From the Annual Meeting with industry leaders to networking opportunities, I have a tremendous amount of respect for all PESA Members and learn more about the industry through every event.

Tell us about some of the people you’ve met while working in the industry and how they’ve impacted your thinking.
PESA Advisory Board Member Josh Lowery, President & CEO, Galtway Marketing, is the first person who comes to mind. Josh has a great perspective and a true passion for the industry and our people. That type of passion is infectious and helps me generate new ideas about how companies can and should work together to jointly raise the bar for the industry.

What are you most excited about for your career, your company and your industry?
I am super excited about the potential to further advance processes. And this potential means the industry has tremendous growth possibilities. To be a part of this growth by helping companies think through and implement their strategies is thrilling for me.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about entering the oil and gas industry?
The oil and gas industry has an interesting and long history globally, but particularly in our great country. But even with the progress that has already been made, there are more steps to climb to reach peak potential. For example, the discovery of unconventional methods to extract hydrocarbons will continue to drive change in the industry and keep oil and gas at the forefront of capital investment and innovation. It’s an exciting place to be and work!

What do you wish other people knew about oil and gas?
I wish people truly understood the challenges of the immense supply chain necessary to drill, frac, produce, transport and refine to get a gallon of fuel to a retail location.

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