Stephen Moonasar’s career path took an unexpected turn—from the sugar estates of Guyana to a drill ship nearly 200 kilometers offshore. His story is a testament to how skills training and opportunity can transform lives.
“I was born in the Skeldon Hospital and grew up right in Skeldon,” Moonasar recalled during an appearance on ExxonMobil Guyana’s Offshore Diaries. “Growing up there was fun. Cricket was the number one sport.”
His education took him from primary school to high school in Rose Hall, followed by technical training at Port Mourant Training Center. His early ambition was to be a mechanic. “When I was young, I wanted to be a mechanic or someone that makes parts,” he said. “I went to training school and did a machinist course. After that, I worked as a machinist at the sugar estate.”
While working at the estate, Moonasar continued his studies in mechanics. Then, an unexpected email changed his path. “I got an email…saying they needed people to work offshore.”
The transition to offshore work required technical skills, training, and adaptation to a new way of life. “Coming into oil and gas, I was skeptical at first,” he admitted. “You have to leave your family for four weeks at a time. But when I got here, there were good people who showed me how to do the job safely and effectively.”
Moonasar’s commitment and training led to rapid progress. “Currently, as a Drilling Fluid Operator, I’m in charge of all the fluid, chemicals, and pump maintenance required for drilling operations.” His next step is another promotion. “The company is training me to move up to the next level as a derrickman. I’ll be going to Houston for cyber chair training and well control level two training.”
Training plays a key role in Guyana’s developing oil and gas industry.
Moonasar says, “One day, I hope to share my skills and knowledge with young people coming into oil and gas.”
