From hospitality roots to offshore responsibility in Guyana’s oil and gas industry, Romona Leonard supports daily operations onboard the Stena DrillMAX.
Her journey offshore Guyana was recently featured in Stena Drilling’s Meet the Team series, shared on LinkedIn on March 18. Serving as a Steward onboard the drillship, her responsibilities include managing accommodations and shared spaces, with additional duties in the catering department’s safety structure and the vessel’s emergency response team.
Romona takes pride in creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for everyone on board. “At Stena Drilling, I’m responsible for maintaining the Level 9 rooms, as well as ensuring the offices and coffee shop are kept clean, organized, and up to standard. In addition to my daily duties, I serve as the safety representative for the catering department, where I help promote and uphold safety standards.”
“I’m also a member of the medical emergency team, supporting emergency response efforts when needed,” she shared.
Romona’s path into oil and gas began outside the sector. She started in hospitality with Carnival Cruise Line before the pandemic disrupted operations in 2021, forcing a shift in direction that ultimately reshaped her career.
“After COVID-19 paused operations in 2021, I transitioned into the oil and gas industry with JSL International, working offshore on the Noble Tom Madden. That experience deepened my understanding of offshore operations and sparked a strong interest in the industry,” she recalled.
That transition gave her firsthand offshore experience and laid the foundation for her current role. Now with Eldorado Offshore on the Stena DrillMAX — the lone Stena drillship currently operating offshore Guyana — she continues to build her experience in a demanding environment.
“What started in hospitality has evolved into a rewarding offshore career,” she said. Life offshore has also shaped how she connects with people and adapts to new environments.
“I’m naturally down to earth and love bringing positive energy wherever I go. Offshore life has given me a deep appreciation for different people and cultures, and I’m always open to learning.”
Away from her duties, Romona focuses on maintaining balance. She keeps active and uses her downtime to reset, relying on routine to stay grounded.
“I love going to the gym — it keeps me disciplined, energized, and focused — and I also enjoy a good movie night to unwind. Karaoke is always on the list, and when I really need to reset, the sauna is my go-to for relaxing and clearing my mind,” she said.
Her approach to work is guided by a simple principle: “Always do your best, even when no one is watching.”
That mindset carries into how she views her workplace. She values structure, strong standards, and the team dynamic that defines offshore life.
“I appreciate being part of a company that values its people, encourages continuous learning, and maintains high standards across operations.”
Romona said the supportive work environment, exposure to different cultures, and opportunities to grow both personally and professionally make her experience rewarding. “I also value the sense of pride that comes with working for a respected organization that prioritizes excellence and wellbeing offshore.”
