Why Engineers Make Strong Senior Managers in Energy with Andrew Inkpen | Energy Sector Heroes
Description
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.
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