Hayley Gilbert, ExxonMobil Guyana’s supply chain manager, says women’s participation in Guyana’s energy sector is increasing, but more must be done to meet the growing demand for skilled workers.
“There are so many opportunities ahead of us in Guyana,” Gilbert said in a recent LinkedIn post. “By some estimates, we’re going to need 50,000 new workers in the coming years to support the growing energy industry here. Women’s participation in the workforce will be critical to the industry’s ongoing success.”
She noted a shift in workforce trends, with more women applying for traditionally male-dominated roles, including field positions, construction, and fabrication. “I also see the local suppliers we work with hiring women – not because they’re women, but because they’re the best candidates for the job,” she added.
Guyana’s oil and gas sector already includes women in key roles. “We have women helicopter pilots, marine vessel captains, dynamic positioning officers, shorebase managers, and engineers. Women are on the drillships and FPSOs and in leadership positions as leads, supervisors, commercial managers, and even CEOs,” Gilbert noted.
ExxonMobil Guyana’s national workforce now comprises over 50% women, far exceeding the industry average of around 20%.
Gilbert believes the momentum must continue. “We can continue this positive momentum by encouraging even more women to have the courage to apply for that job, to take on that new assignment, to tackle that stretch goal, and to assume their infinite intelligence,” she said. “I’m excited to see the future of women in Guyana – in blazers, coveralls, and everything in between.”
