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How gender diverse are the Oil, Gas and Energy sectors?
According to a report by McKinsey in 2020, the percentage of women employed in the oil, gas and energy industry stood at ( 15% oil & gas, 17% power and utilities and 32% renewable energy workforce). With these statistics, it was also observed gender diversity decreased with seniority and women holding less qualified and less paid positions (according to UNDP).
The world in recent years has faced an environment of uncertainty in many sectors, and the oil and gas industry has been one of those greatly affected. Companies that do not encourage diversity and inclusion in their workforce are at risk of missing insight, profit, and innovation that come with diverse teams.
To discuss this and other peculiar subjects pertaining to women in energy, I joined a group of well versed and resourced individuals on the women in energy panel session at the just ended IN-VR Ghana Oil, Gas and Energy Summit 2022. We further made recommendations on how women can position themselves for future opportunities in these sectors.
I believe as women in these modern times, we must work towards professional development in our chosen field of work; keeping up with the technology, systems and process that enhance productivity. We must also engage in continuous learning about our industry’s lastest development and trends , whiles improving our existing skill sets to meet the needs of the times.
I also believe it is important for young aspirational career women to seek mentorship, support and a community of guidance from seasoned professional women to aid in navigating careers and ambitions.
Even more important is creating an enabling environment of which Lean In | Equity & Sustainability under the leadership of Lamé Verre FEI and Rita Hausken Barkhodaee, PCC and other amazing women leaders are championing.
I have the opportunity to serve as the West Africa(Ghana) circle lead and we are on a mission to create an enabling environment and accessible platforms for women across various industries to maximize career and personal development, towards a sustainable future.
I encourage both aspirational and seasoned women professionals to join this community and be part of this great initiative.
Special appreciation to Lamé Verre FEI Nadia LALOUT-LANDEMAINEOzlem Ahiska-Weber MScWesley Johnson
