Claim OwnershipEnergy Sector Heroes ~ Careers in Oil & Gas, Sustainability & Renewable Energy
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© Copyright 2025 Michelle Fraser
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Welcome to Energy Sector Heroes! This podcast is all about showcasing stand-out individuals in the energy sector and their inspiring careers. If you're interested in making a name for yourself in the energy industry, this is the perfect show for you. Each episode, we'll sit down with a different energy sector hero and learn about their journey to success, the challenges they faced along the way, and the valuable lessons they learned. From engineers and scientists to executives and entrepreneurs, we'll hear from a diverse range of professionals who are making a real impact in the world of energy. Tune in to Energy Sector Heroes to get motivated, learn from the best, and start your journey to becoming an energy sector hero too!
143 Episodes
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🚀 Ever wondered what it takes to innovate in the high stakes world of energy technology? This week on the Energy Sector Heroes podcast, we’re joined by Calvin Holt, CEO and cofounder of Drawdocks, as he opens up about his journey through startup failures and breakthroughs in the energy industry. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, Calvin’s candid stories and actionable strategies offer a blueprint for building resilient businesses in a complex field.🎙️ In this episode, you’ll discover:💡 How to turn failure into fuel for building successful businesses.🏗️ The importance of rapid testing and iteration in tech development.🤝 Why relationships and transparency are the bedrock of success in the energy sector.🌐 Join us for a grounded conversation packed with practical tips on innovation, leadership, and perseverance.
💡 Want to thrive in the ever-changing energy industry? This week, I’m joined by Richard Chuchla, a veteran of Exxon and former university professor, as we explore the journey of navigating multiple sectors, from mining to oil and gas, and even into academia. Richard shares practical insights on building a career that thrives on adaptability, mentorship, and balancing creativity with the demands of large organizations.🎙️ In this episode, you’ll learn:🌟 Why mentorship is critical and how to find and leverage great mentors in your career.🔀 The power of career flexibility—embracing new paths and learning from change.💡 How to foster creativity even within rigid organizational structures.🔗 Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on career growth, industry challenges, and making your mark in energy.
How do you build a long and adaptable career in the energy sector? In this episode, I speak with Rene Jonk, Director at ACT Geo, who brings more than 25 years of experience in geoscience, international project work, and leadership across the industry.Rene shares practical advice on career direction, leadership without micromanagement, and developing the relationships that open doors especially in a sector that continues to evolve. We explore how skills built in traditional oil and gas roles translate into new opportunities across the energy landscape.In this episode:• The value of professional networks — and how to grow them• Trust-based leadership and how it drives performance• Adapting your skills as the sector transitions• Career lessons learned from working around the worldIf you’re developing your path in the energy industry whether you’re just starting out or stepping into senior roles you’ll take away strategies you can put into practice right away.
What does it take to deliver some of the world’s largest energy projects? In this episode, I sit down with Michael Foucaud, Construction Director at TechnipFMC, to talk about his career journey and what he has learned from leading major project execution across global construction yards.Michael shares practical insights into how large-scale projects come together from yard operations and planning through to working with teams on the ground and managing high stakes challenges. We also discuss the skills that matter most in construction leadership and how younger professionals can build capability in this part of the sector.In this episode, we cover:• How construction experience shapes successful project delivery• Managing the realities of large, complex build environments• Leadership and communication on major energy projects• Career pathways into construction roles within the sectorWhether you’re already working in projects or curious about what happens long before installation offshore, this conversation offers a clear view into the world of energy construction and delivery.
How do graduates turn sustainability studies into real opportunities in the energy sector? In this episode, I speak with Dhriti Badami about starting a career during the energy transition from securing early internships to building confidence when speaking with experienced professionals.We discuss decarbonisation, the continued role of traditional energy alongside renewables, and how young professionals can shape the shift to cleaner systems through research, collaboration and fresh perspectives.In this episode:Where sustainability and energy careers overlapHow students can build credibility before graduatingNetworking strategies that actually lead to opportunitiesThe role young professionals will play in the transitionIf you’re studying or just starting out in the sector, this conversation will help you understand what steps to take next and why your perspective matters.
How do you go from writing software in the field to leading a global technology company? In this episode, I sit down with Pablo Perez founder, president, and CEO of Bardasz to unpack the decisions, risks, and lessons that shaped his career.Pablo reflects on his early years as a developer in Venezuela, the leap into entrepreneurship, and the realities of scaling a business in the energy sector. We explore the practical side of leadership: building a team, managing uncertainty, and staying close to the needs of operators and service companies.In this episode, we cover:Balancing technical skills with business growthCommon pitfalls in startups and how to navigate themWhy data and digital tools remain essential in field operationsWhat future founders in the energy sector should focus onIf you’re curious about what it takes to build a company in the energy technology space or you’re considering that path yourself Pablo’s experience offers plenty to learn from.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is set to play a major role in reducing industrial emissions but where do the skills come from to build it? In this episode, I talk with Henry Morris about how traditional oil and gas expertise is being repurposed to help the UK and Europe cut millions of tonnes of CO₂ each year.Henry shares how his geoscience background led him from offshore exploration into developing new CO₂ storage projects using existing wells and depleted gas fields. We discuss why core engineering and subsurface skills remain essential, what smaller companies look for in graduates, and how to prepare for the market cycles that shape energy careers. In this episode: How CCS works and why it’s neededTransferable skills from oil & gas to low-carbon rolesWhy clarity in communication matters as much as technical knowledgeNavigating career uncertainty and energy market cyclesPractical advice for graduates entering the sectorIf you’re exploring opportunities in the energy transition or curious about where a geoscience or engineering degree can take you, this conversation will help you see the full landscape of what’s possible.
Many of you are already using AI tools in your studies, careers, or job searches — but how do you make sure you’re using them wisely?In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I speak with Vered Shwartz, Assistant Professor of Computer Science at the University of British Columbia and a specialist in natural language processing. We explore how AI is reshaping recruitment, interviews, and professional development — and what skills humans still need to bring to the table.Here are three actionable takeaways you can apply straight away:🤖 Don’t outsource accuracy – Tools like ChatGPT can polish your writing, but errors in a CV or application can cost you opportunities.🧠 Use AI as a practice tool, not a crutch – Mock interviews or brainstorming are great, but balance them with human feedback to keep your authentic voice.👥 Double down on human skills – Empathy, critical thinking, and adaptability are traits AI can’t replace.For employees, this helps you stand out in a competitive job market. For employers, it highlights what really matters in future-ready talent: people who combine smart use of technology with the human skills that drive stronger teams and better project outcomes.
For many of you aiming to move into leadership roles, the question often comes up: What does it really take to steer a company through cultural and financial challenges?In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I sit down with Davis Larssen, CEO and former senior leader at Proserv and Schlumberger, to talk about the decisions and trade-offs that shape a CEO’s career.Davis reflects on the realities of leadership — from managing cross-cultural teams to addressing financial pressures — and shares what he’s learned about building a sustainable business while staying true to your own values.Here are three actionable takeaways from our conversation:💼 Understand culture before strategy – Financial results depend on people and culture. Take time to learn how teams operate and where hidden barriers lie before jumping into solutions.🔍 Balance short-term and long-term decisions – CEOs often juggle immediate financial pressures with positioning the company for future success. Practice weighing both when making decisions in your own role.❤️ Find passion as well as skill – Career longevity depends not only on capability but also on genuine enjoyment of the work. If you don’t care about the mission, it will show in your leadership.👉 For professionals, this episode is a chance to reflect on what it takes to lead at the top. For employers, it’s a reminder that developing future leaders with cultural intelligence, resilience, and values-driven decision-making is what keeps organisations competitive.
Many of you listening work in environments where change, diversity, and leadership challenges intersect. Questions often come up: How do women progress in male-dominated sectors? What practical steps can organisations take beyond advocacy? And how can young professionals carve out their place in the energy transition?In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I speak with Monica Collings OBE, Chair of Powerful Women and board member across several energy organisations. Monica shares her experiences of leadership, resilience, and what’s still needed to create workplaces where women and minorities can thrive.Here are three actionable takeaways from our conversation:💡 Ask for what you need – Don’t assume others will recognise the barriers you face. Whether it’s flexibility, resources, or support, making clear requests is key to sustainable careers.🌱 Find your tribe – Beyond your role, seek networks and groups that provide support and visibility. They can help you navigate challenges and open doors you may not access alone.🚀 Say yes before you feel ready – Growth often comes from stepping into opportunities that feel slightly out of reach. Surround yourself with people who can support you while you learn on the job.👉 This conversation isn’t just relevant for individuals navigating their careers. It also highlights what employers gain by embedding inclusive practices: stronger retention, more resilient teams, and workplaces where diverse talent can thrive.
If you’re working in energy right now, you’ll know the tension between meeting today’s demands and preparing for tomorrow’s transition. How do leaders balance commercial realities with long-term sustainability goals? And what can professionals at all levels learn from those shaping national energy strategies?In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I speak with Andy Samuel CBE, former Chief Executive of the UK’s North Sea Transition Authority. Andy reflects on his time building the organization from the ground up, embedding net zero into strategy, and navigating the challenges of both government and industry.Here are three actionable takeaways from our conversation:🌍 Connect strategy to net zero – No matter your role, think about how your decisions today align with long-term energy transition goals. Even small steps in projects or planning can contribute to bigger system change.🤝 Bridge commercial and policy worlds – Success in the energy sector often requires understanding both perspectives. Build awareness of regulatory frameworks alongside business drivers.🧭 Develop skills for complexity – Whether managing teams or projects, practice working with multiple viewpoints and priorities. The ability to find common ground is increasingly valuable.This episode will help you consider how your own work fits into the bigger picture of transition, leadership, and the future of energy.
For many of you working in energy, the questions come up again and again: How do I move from technical roles into leadership? What skills matter most when managing people? And how do I adapt as the industry itself shifts?In this episode, I speak with Grant McKenzie, VP of Developments at Woodside Energy, about his 30-year career across different companies, countries, and disciplines. Grant shares what he’s learned about decision-making, people management, and the skills younger professionals should build to thrive in today’s evolving energy sector.His lessons echo what I’ve seen in my own leadership roles — and what employers consistently look for in their future leaders:🔄 Build range, not just depth – A strong technical foundation matters, but rounding out your experience with commercial or strategic roles makes you more adaptable and better prepared for senior positions.🗣 Seek out honest perspectives – Go beyond your immediate circle. Whether through “two-down” conversations or informal chats, creating space for candid feedback helps uncover blind spots and build trust.💻 Stay open to new tools and approaches – Skills in coding, AI, or data handling aren’t just “nice to have” for graduates anymore. Use technology to solve problems faster and challenge the old way of doing things.This episode is a chance to reflect on your own path, whether you’re just starting out or considering your next career step.
Many of you listening are engineers or early-to-mid career professionals in the energy sector, wondering what it really takes to progress into senior management. In this episode, I talk with Andrew Inkpen, Seward Chair of Global Strategy at Thunderbird and author of The Global Oil & Gas Industry. Our conversation digs into the realities of career progression, the mindset shifts required, and why technical expertise alone isn’t always enough.Here are three takeaways you can put into practice straight away:✨ Think beyond your discipline – Engineers bring strong problem-solving skills, but advancing into leadership requires broadening your scope to strategy, people management, and business acumen.👥 Find and use mentors – Seek out people who can help you see blind spots, challenge your assumptions, and open doors. Don’t wait for formal mentorship; start building those relationships now.🚀 Reframe setbacks – Not getting promoted doesn’t mean the end of the road. Use it as feedback to improve your approach, build new skills, and position yourself for the next opportunity.This episode is for anyone who wants to understand how technical professionals can grow into decision-makers — and what practical steps you can take today to keep moving forward in your career.
Finding a role in today’s energy and technology job market isn’t straightforward. Graduates face shifting expectations, AI is changing traditional entry-level roles, and career paths often look more like spaghetti than a straight ladder. In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I sit down with Will Whitehorn OBE, Chancellor of Edinburgh Napier University and former Virgin Group executive, to talk about what this means for anyone trying to build a career in energy, technology, or beyond.We cover the reality of graduate employment, why AI is both a disruptor and an opportunity, and how careers often unfold in unexpected but rewarding ways.✨ Three Takeaways You Can Apply Today· 🚀 Don’t wait for the “perfect job” – take opportunities as they come, treat each role as a learning step, and build transferable skills along the way.· 🤖 Learn to work with AI, not against it – combine your technical knowledge with coding, data, and digital literacy to stay relevant as roles evolve.· 🌍 Think polymath, not silo – build experiences across different fields and industries; cross-disciplinary thinking is where innovation and career growth often happen.
The energy transition brings both opportunity and challenge. Whether you’re a graduate just entering the sector, an innovator trying to scale, or an established professional navigating change, the path forward isn’t always clear. In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I speak with Richard Halsey, Innovation Director at the National Energy Systems Catapult, about how businesses, graduates, and innovators can find their place in shaping the energy system of the future.We discuss how startups and established companies alike can drive progress, what it really takes to bring new energy products to market, and why building diverse skills and collaborations is essential for success.✨ Three Takeaways You Can Apply Today· 💡 Broaden your view of the sector: Don’t stay in one lane — build understanding across disciplines (engineering, consumer research, data, design) to open more career and business opportunities.· 📈 Be ready to adapt and use new tools: Skills in AI, digital platforms, and agile ways of working are becoming core expectations in the energy space.· 🤝 Value collaboration and timing: Progress often comes from working across different backgrounds — and taking opportunities when they present themselves, even if the path isn’t linear.
Today we’re excited to spotlight Simon Seaton, a respected leader shaping the future of the energy industry.Simon is the CEO of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), where he works closely with the Board and senior leadership to drive global strategy, policy, and operations across SPE’s offices in Dallas, Houston, Calgary, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai, and London.Before joining SPE, Simon served as CEO of Energy and Resources Worldwide at Sodexo, one of the world’s largest workplace and services organizations. His career began in chemistry as a drilling fluids engineer, leading to a remarkable 22-year journey with Halliburton, holding senior positions in Aberdeen, Houston, and Nigeria.Beyond his executive roles, Simon has been a dedicated SPE member for over 25 years, contributing numerous technical papers and in 2021 completing the Global Energy Leadership Program at Rice University.Originally from the UK and now based in Houston, Simon’s career is a testament to leadership, resilience, and commitment to advancing the energy profession.Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Simon Seaton—a true energy sector hero.
In this episode, I spoke with Charles Hendry, former UK Minister of Energy and visiting professor at Edinburgh University, about what the energy transition really means for professionals, graduates, and businesses alike.If you’ve been feeling uncertain about your future in the sector—especially if you’re based in Aberdeen or just starting out—this conversation is worth your time. Charles shared why the North Sea still matters, what kinds of roles will emerge from carbon capture and decommissioning, and how graduates can position themselves for long-term success in a changing energy economy.🔑 3 Actionable Takeaways:📝 Tailor your CV and show your passionRecruiters want more than a qualification—they want to see your commitment. Include what motivates you, what you’ve done beyond your degree, and how you’ve engaged with the wider sector.🌍 Stay flexible and think globalThe North Sea is changing, but the global energy sector is expanding. Being open to overseas opportunities—even temporarily—can open doors that aren’t available locally.🧠 Engage with the industry nowJoin professional bodies like the Energy Institute, attend conferences, or volunteer in the sector. These activities offer visibility, networking, and can give your job applications a real edge.
Many of my listeners are passionate about real-world impact — not just in decarbonisation, but in delivering real, tangible transformation to underserved communities. In this week’s episode, I speak with Safiya Aliyu, General Manager at Susei Renewable Energies and Country Director of the Mata Ariwan Susei Initiative. Her journey is a powerful reminder that energy access isn’t just about infrastructure — it’s about dignity, opportunity, and long-term economic growth.We explore what it takes to electrify remote Nigerian villages, the real cost of raising funds, and how community ownership transforms energy projects into vehicles for sustainable livelihoods. Safiya also opens up about the personal sacrifices, systemic hurdles, and quiet resilience that fuel her mission.🔌 Three Actionable Takeaways:· 🧾 Get investment-ready: Build transparent processes and strong documentation early. Funders look for solid governance, not just passion.· 🧠 Create space for behaviour change: Introducing electricity is the first step — but training locals to use it productively ensures long-term impact.· 🤝 Leverage trust and word-of-mouth: Sometimes the most effective growth strategy is letting the results speak for themselves — and letting communities share the story.
If you’re applying for jobs in the energy sector—whether you're a graduate or experienced professional—this episode is worth your time. I sat down with Simon Winfield, former CEO of Hays UK & Ireland, to explore how artificial intelligence is really affecting recruitment, what employers look for in CVs and cover letters, and how jobseekers can stand out in an increasingly automated landscape.Simon also shared candid advice on navigating today’s job market, why chasing “phantom roles” can waste your time, and how younger workers can align their values with employers driving energy transition and climate action.🔑 Here are 3 actionable takeaways:✨ Write your own cover letterA well-written, personal cover letter often tells recruiters more than your CV. Use it to show motivation, awareness of the company, and why the role matters to you.📬 Avoid the black holeSkip faceless job portals when possible. Reach out directly to hiring managers on platforms like LinkedIn—even if they refer you back to HR, you've made a stronger impression.🛠 Tailor, don’t templateUse AI for research, not for writing. Recruiters can tell when your CV is generic. Showcase your story, potential, and personality—especially if you're early in your career.
For anyone building a career in energy—whether you're a graduate, a mid-career engineer, or a senior executive—the rapid evolution of our sector brings both opportunity and complexity. This week, I sat down with Delfina Govia, a Chief Sustainability Officer with over 46 years in the oil and gas industry, to unpack what’s changing, what’s not, and what that means for the future of work in energy.We talk frankly about everything from her disguised entry into offshore life in the 1970s, to why the energy transition isn’t about eliminating fossil fuels—but balancing competing priorities like affordability, infrastructure, and global access. Delfina also reflects on what younger generations need to know as they step into a sector under scrutiny, ripe with innovation, and still shaped by geopolitics and economic realities.🔑 3 Takeaways You Can Use· 💡 Don’t lose your idealism—learn the system: If you’re passionate about energy transition, pair that passion with a deep understanding of economics, infrastructure, and geopolitics to avoid naivety in real-world applications.· 🔍 Be selective with innovation: Not all technologies can—or should—be adopted at the core of operations. Understand the risk thresholds in oil and gas before pushing digital or AI solutions.· 🛠️ Infrastructure is the real bottleneck: Want to accelerate decarbonisation? Focus your skills on solving the hard logistical questions—especially how we transport, store, and distribute energy beyond fossil fuels.🎙️Whether you’re shaping policy, deploying tech, or just getting started—this conversation is a grounded look at the realities and opportunities shaping the next energy era.
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Love this, my son listens to this podcast. Full of tips for career starters