The 25 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars is a list celebrating the remarkable achievements of a select group of women across Africa’s energy sector, such as Fatimat Olanrewaju, General Field Engineer at SLB. SLB focuses on technology and services for the energy industry with a strong focus on sustainability and technological advancement to achieve optimal performance while minimizing environmental impact. The African Energy Chamber spoke to Olanrewaju about her success and future aspirations.
Could you provide a brief overview of your journey in the energy industry that led to your current role? What are some key achievements or milestones that you are particularly proud of?
My career in the energy industry started when I interned at Mobil Oil Nigeria plc. Here, I gained hands-on experience in production and operations. I pursued on as an Associate Process Engineer in Delta Afrik Engineering, where I focused on using process simulation software to explore the detailed process of surface oil production. I have since grown into the role of a General Field Engineer while efficiently delivering projects and wells for national and multinational oil producing companies and maintaining safety standards. I am proud of consistently delivering on projects and pioneering several initiatives in all these roles.
The energy industry is known for its complexities. What were some significant challenges you faced along the way, and how did you navigate through them to achieve your goals?
As exciting as it was to join SLB as a wellhead field engineer, it was as challenging for me because it was a significant shift from a role focused on process simulation and oil process design to a hands-on role of installing wellheads. In my previous role as a Process Engineer, I worked primarily in controlled environments, using simulation software to model and optimize oil production processes. All these and my process design expertise, enabled me to navigate the complexities of wellhead installation and ensure efficient, safe operations in the field as well as to bridge the gap between simulation-based design and practical execution in the field.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to excel in the energy sector? Are there any specific strategies or mindsets that helped you overcome obstacles and reach your current position?
My biggest advice to young women aspiring to excel in the energy sector is to embrace challenges and never let the complexities of the industry intimidate them. The energy sector offers limitless and incredible opportunities for growth. One key strategy that helped me particularly was to take ownership of my career by being proactive in developing my technical skills and leadership abilities. It is important for young women to believe in their expertise and growth as the energy sector is often male-dominated, which can present unique gender-related challenges. With the right mindset, one can achieve much more than initially thought possible.
A career in energy can be demanding. Could you describe a typical day in your life?
A typical day would start with safety and operational meetings with the team before heading out to the wellsite. I prepare tools and oversee the wellhead installation, maintenance or inspection and ensure every component is assembled. I also liaise with the rig crew and other stakeholders to keep everyone aligned on the project goals. I work with my crew to monitor the progress of the operations, troubleshoot issues in real-time and adjust as needed to eliminate delays or equipment malfunctions. I conduct final checks, take inventory of tools and equipment, document the reports and be sure I am ready for the next phase of operations.
When I am not on the field, I am usually at the office supporting operations. I review field reports and check in with other field engineers in other field locations to assess ongoing projects and any challenges they may be facing. I provide technical support remotely, review equipment and tools requirements and prepare load out to wellsite. I also interface with customers and clients to be able to communicate their expectations to field engineers to ensure the best service delivery.
Looking ahead, what changes or advancements do you hope to see in the energy sector? How do you envision your role in shaping that future?
As the world and the energy industry is transitioning towards cleaner energy sources, I hope to see a future where renewable energy plays a larger role in global energy production while incorporating advanced technologies like AI and automation. I see myself contributing to this by leveraging my field expertise to support the industry’s push towards sustainability and efficiency, which can be implemented through new technologies in wellhead operations or transitioning into roles focused on clean energy solutions.
