Will Li, Vice President, Li Gear
What influenced your decision to enter the oil and gas industry?
Being from the Midwest, entering the oil and gas industry was not intuitive, but a choice. I enjoy following global economic trends and history. The more I learned about the global oil and gas industry and the role it has played in our nation’s economic history, the more I felt drawn to be a part of it.
What was your impression of the industry beforehand and how has it evolved?
When I joined the industry, I knew of its influence on our everyday lives, from the gas pump to the heating in our homes. The more deeply I became involved, the more I appreciated the sophisticated technology and the hard work by entire communities that goes into producing the important resources that all of us depend on.
What have you found to be the most surprising about the industry?
I was surprised to learn of whole families who have grown up in the oilfield across multiple generations, surrounded by the industry. More workers are employed by the industry today than 10 years ago. Oil and gas directly impacts the lives and welfare of numerous communities throughout our country.
What do you find most challenging and most rewarding about the industry or your work?
It is both challenging and rewarding to educate the public on the benefits of the oil and gas industry. With so many conflicting viewpoints, it is important for people to understand the facts about our industry and the extent to which it influences our lives.
Where do you hope to see the industry develop over the next 5 years?
Our country is experiencing an energy revolution. I believe that the oil and gas industry will play an essential role in years to come by providing more jobs, revamping our infrastructure, and enabling our country to become energy independent.
What role do you believe you will play in the industry’s future?
Our business manufactures gears, gearboxes, and other components for oilfield equipment. Our products are used in advanced applications such as hydraulic fracturing. There is going to be an increased demand for better gears and machine parts, a superior supply chain, and streamlined technology. My goal is to meet that demand and enable my customers to achieve success in this growing industry.
How has your involvement in PESA supported your career goals?
PESA is a great organization that I have been fortunate to be a part of. Being involved with PESA has given me the opportunity to meet many kind people, as well as smart mentors. In business and in life, I believe we can only be successful with the support of other people.
Tell us about some of the people you’ve met while working in the industry and how they’ve impacted your thinking.
I have interacted with people of all managerial levels and backgrounds, and it is fascinating to see the integral role family plays throughout the industry. Many people’s families have worked in this industry for generations. For some, the company is their family and for others, the company becomes their family, and I admire this aspect of our industry.
What are you most excited about for your career, your company and your industry?
I am looking forward to the future, as our industry continues to grow in influence, develop new innovations, and engage local communities. I am excited to contribute my part and I hope that my company will continue to perform and exceed expectations.
What do you wish other people knew about oil and gas?
I wish others could see through the eyes of the passionate people in our industry and understand the commitment and perseverance that goes into extracting these natural resources, creating value in the lives of people around the world.
