PANEL SESSION: Breaking Barriers Together: Advancing Women in Energy Sector

The energy sector has traditionally been characterized by gender imbalance, with women encountering obstacles to advancement. Nevertheless, global and Omani developments demonstrate that targeted policies, mentorship, and cultural shifts are steadily increasing female participation and leadership.

Education, skill development, and mentorship remain paramount in advancing gender inclusion. Omani government and industry programs—such as scholarships, technical training, and leadership networks—have helped produce a new generation of female professionals. These efforts have resulted in a rise in the number of women in engineering, project management, and executive positions.

Prominent women such as Vicki Hollub, President & Chief Executive Officer of Occidental Oil & Gas (USA), Lynn Good, CEO of Duke Energy (USA), and Hilde Merete Aasheim, CEO of Norsk Hydro (Norway), exemplify international progress resulting from gender inclusion initiatives and organizational commitment.

Oman’s energy sector has seen a marked increase in female leaders. Dr. Rawya Al Busaidi, as Minister of Higher Education, championed STEM education, laying a foundation for women’s entry into technical fields related to energy. At the forefront stands Najla Zuhair Al Jamali, President of bp Oman, whose career journey—from reservoir engineer to the first female Omani country manager for bp—embodies the success of targeted policies, mentorship, and cultural change. Her leadership and achievements, spanning over two decades across bp, OQ, Oman Oil, Vale, Schlumberger, Shell, and Petroleum Development Oman, serve as a beacon for aspiring women in energy. 

Building on her career progression; from reservoir engineer in Oman to Chief Executive of Alternative Energy, and now President of bp Oman, her presentation will explore how inclusive leadership and strategic capability development can enhance opportunities for women in senior roles, while maintaining operational excellence and ensuring a reliable gas supply for the nation.

Moreover, Aisha Al Kharusi, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Oman Oil Company, has played a significant role in shaping the company’s strategic direction and promoting diversity. Similarly, Alya Al Maimani, Vice President for Oman North Assets (OXY), has led pivotal operational projects and contributed to professional training programs for women engineers.

The advancement of women in the energy sector, both globally and within Oman, is a result of deliberate policy, organizational resolve, and the exemplary achievements of female leaders. Their growing presence underscores the sector’s commitment to diversity and paves the way for future generations.