Production Technologist at Shell and SPE Aberdeen Chairman, Anthony Onukwu, shares how he has engineered a succesfull career pathway
What did you want to be when you were young?
I wanted to be an engineer because I have always loved mathematics. I found mathematics and physics the most interesting subjects because I like how it all comes together.
For me, engineering seemed like a logical choice. I could have done a science degree but an engineering degree has much better career prospects – that was my thinking at that time.
Bottom line is that engineering teaches you how to analyse problems in meticulous details and this can be extremely useful even outside of engineering.
What are the main career stepping stones you have taken?
After completing a Masters degree in oil and gas engineering at RGU, I joined Vetco Gray (now GE Oil and Gas) as a project engineer. After that I worked for Eclipse Petroleum Technology as consultant petroleum engineer spending number of years working in different E&P companies and projects. I later spent quite a number of years working for ITF as a senior technology analyst.
Currently, I am working for Shell UK as a production technologist where I am responsible for a Brownfield well and reservoir management (WRM) and well abandonment activities.
What can you tell us about your SPE role?
I considered SPE (The Society of Petroleum Engineers) a guardian angel that has been with me along every step of my career journey. From huge networking opportunities to continuing education events, I have attended and learnt new things that enhanced my career, with unlimited benefits.
SPE has had a huge impact upon my professional life and that is one of the reasons I have been a long-term volunteer with SPE for the past 12 years. I cannot separate SPE from my career.
I was appointed chairman of SPE Aberdeen in 2012, a position I am honoured to have held for almost two years.
My progression from a student member of SPE to Aberdeen section chairman has been a highly positive and rewarding experience. It has offered endless opportunities for professional development and knowledge-sharing.
Who’s been your greatest influence?
I have had so many influences in my life, but my dad has always been my greatest influence. He taught me humility. He impacted the spirit of volunteerism and leadership in me.
Best achievement so far?
It has to be the humbling opportunity to serve as the chairman of SPE Aberdeen. During my tenure SPE Aberdeen has won the President award for section excellence for the fourth time consecutively and, for the first time, section innovation award.
I have personally received the SPE North Sea Regional Outstanding Young Member Award in 2008 and the SPE International for Young Member Contribution to the Society and Petroleum Industry in 2009.
What do you want to achieve in the rest of your career?
I want to continue in my technical role and, in the near future build something in the industry that will leave a lasting legacy. But, most importantly, I wish to become one of the best in my current role.
What has motivated you?
I am motivated by the opportunity and desire to develop and learn new things. Other people motivate me, seeing what the volunteers in SPE Aberdeen are doing has been the greatest source of my motivation.
The time, energy and dedication they put in to the section to ensure other SPE Aberdeen members benefit from their association with SPE is mind blowing.
What’s the best way to motivate others?
When you support people and encourage them through tough times, you inspire them to see the best in themselves and in the situation. Challenging people to believe in themselves and that they can do the impossible tops it all.
What’s your best career advice?
SPE is the platform where experience and knowledge are shared. It’s where oil and gas professionals – from all disciplines and all specialties – can strengthen and develop their lives, both personally and professionally. It’s where members can find the support, tools and resources needed to make better day-to-day decisions.
For me, being a SPE member has proved the best career enhancer ever – it means limitless exposure to new people, new places and new ideas. The collective body of knowledge and on-demand resources available through SPE is unmatched in the oil and gas industry.
Is there any day in your career you would like to live again?
One day I want to re-live is October 5, 2009, in New Orleans, US, the day I received the SPE International Award for the Young Member Contribution to the Society and Petroleum Industry. To be nominated and voted by my peers for a global award was incredible.
What’s your dream job?:
The oil industry is very vast. It’s very possible to point to myriad opportunities to aspire to. The one that would give me the most satisfaction would be owning and managing my own independent production company.
What’s your idea of a perfect retirement?
Relaxing with my family, travelling and learning about other cultures would be ideal. I would also be able to give back to the society I live in and also the society of my profession. I would continue to give my time to SPE.