In this conversation, Jackson Montgomery shares how he moved from a non-technical background to leading emerging technologies at Siemens Energy. He discusses the rise of AI, the future of energy—including nuclear fusion—and stresses the value of mentorship, diversity, and lifelong learning. He also highlights AI’s power to reshape business and points to resources for upskilling.

Takeaways

Jackson's journey into technology began later in life.

AI has recently gained mainstream attention with generative AI.

The energy industry is experiencing significant innovation.

Diversity of thought is crucial in the energy sector.

Mentorship plays a vital role in career development.

AI can automate menial tasks, enhancing productivity.

Continuous learning is essential in a rapidly changing job market.

Networking and peer mentoring can provide valuable insights.

The future of energy includes a mix of renewables and nuclear technologies.

Companies are increasingly supportive of AI training for employees.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jackson Montgomery and His Journey

05:41 The Intersection of Technology and Business

10:27 Navigating Career Transitions and Overcoming Biases

15:06 The Future of Energy: Trends and Innovations

19:55 AI's Role in Energy Transformation

22:13 The Challenge of AI ROI

23:40 Implementing AI Agents in Organizations

25:53 Navigating AI in Sales and Business

26:21 Career Reflections and Learning from Experience

29:01 The Importance of Stability in Career Paths

29:53 Rapid Fire Round: Personal Insights

31:35 Innovation and Corporate Culture

32:55 Lessons from Teaching and Student Engagement

34:50 The Future of Technology and AI

35:38 Diversity and Inclusion in the Energy Sector

37:13 Learning and Implementing AI in Business

Keywords

emerging technologies, AI, energy industry, mentorship, career development, Siemens Energy, innovation, technology consulting, nuclear fusion, diversity in tech, oil and gas

In this episode, Laura Aiken, a leadership and resilience expert discuss the evolving definitions of midlife, the importance of reflection in career development, and the challenges of stress and burnout in the workplace, particularly in the energy sector. Laura shares her insights on building community and connection at work, the significance of diversity and inclusion, and practical strategies for enhancing resilience and mental health. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to foster supportive environments that prioritize well-being and collaboration.

Takeaways

Reflection is a natural part of human psyche.

Age-based milestones can prompt career reflection.

Continuous improvement is essential in any career.

Community and connection are vital for handling stress.

Mental health in the energy industry is a growing concern.

Creating a supportive work environment enhances resilience.

Empathy is a powerful tool in leadership.

Understanding personal stress triggers is crucial.

Diversity and inclusion contribute to team resilience.

Leaders should prioritize psychological safety in the workplace.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Resilience

02:38 Laura's Journey in Engineering and Culture

05:00 Burnout and Mental Health in the Industry

09:53 Navigating Challenges in the Energy Sector

11:55 Understanding Stress and Resilience

14:38 Diversity, Inclusion, and Team Resilience

17:33 Reflections on Midlife and Career Changes

17:34 Understanding the Midlife Crisis

20:12 The Importance of Reflection

23:28 Building Community for Resilience

27:03 Leadership Lessons and Personal Growth

31:17 Addressing Bias in the Workplace

33:37 Key Takeaways for High-Pressure Situations

Keywords

leadership, resilience, workplace stress, burnout, community, diversity, inclusion, energy industry, mental health, personal growth, energy, oil and gas, chemicals

In this conversation, Swarandeep Singh shares his extensive career journey spanning over three decades in the energy industry. He discusses his early experiences in India, the transition to working abroad, and the importance of networking and mentorship in shaping his career. Swarandeep also addresses the biases present in the industry, particularly regarding gender representation, and reflects on the future of the energy sector amidst challenges like climate change. He emphasizes the need for professionals to adapt to changes and seize opportunities while highlighting the significance of empathy in leadership.

Takeaways

Swarandeep's journey began in India, where he excelled in his studies.

He faced challenges transitioning from academia to the professional world.

Networking and mentorship played crucial roles in his career advancement.

The energy industry is still male-dominated, with a need for more female representation.

Climate change is reshaping the energy sector, requiring adaptation and innovation.

Professionals must keep pace with rapid changes in the industry.

Empathy is an underrated quality in leadership.

Opportunities should not be overlooked; they can lead to significant growth.

Building a support structure is essential for career advancement.

Swarandeep encourages aspiring professionals to be proactive in their careers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Soren Deep Singh's Journey

03:36 Early Career and Challenges in the Energy Sector

06:34 Transitioning to International Roles

09:05 Growth and Opportunities at ABB

11:56 The Importance of Mentorship and Networking

14:19 Biases in the Energy Industry

16:41 Future of the Energy Industry

19:14 Reflections on Career Choices

21:53 Rapid Fire Round: Insights and Fun

26:27 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Keywords

Swarandeep Singh, career journey, energy industry, mentorship, networking, biases, future of energy, career opportunities, personal growth, leadership, oil and gas, chemicals

In this episode, Adam Forness, a mechanical engineer and product line manager at Innovex shares his journey from education to a successful career in the energy industry, discussing the challenges and biases he faced along the way. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the industry, the value of an MBA, and the need for the energy sector to attract younger talent. The conversation also touches on the changing landscape of the energy industry, the significance of STEM education, and personal reflections on career choices.

Takeaways

Adam's journey began with a degree in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M.

The energy transition is reshaping the oil and gas industry.

An MBA can provide valuable skills and networking opportunities.

Understanding the operations of the energy sector is crucial for success.

The industry needs to attract younger generations to remain relevant.

Incremental changes in technology can lead to significant impacts.

Personal experiences shape professional journeys and decisions.

STEM education is vital for the next generation's interest in engineering.

A customer-focused culture is essential for all roles in the industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Adam Forness and His Journey

03:35 Navigating the Engineering Landscape

06:22 Transitioning from Education to Industry

08:50 The Value of an MBA in Engineering

11:23 The Changing Landscape of the Energy Industry

13:48 Day-to-Day Operations in Energy Transition

16:10 Reflecting on Career Choices and Regrets

19:01 Future Aspirations and Entrepreneurial Ventures

21:19 Encouraging STEM in the Next Generation

23:56 Key Takeaways for Success in the Energy Industry

26:40 Rapid Fire Round and Personal Insights

29:13 Addressing Biases in the Energy Industry

Keywords

energy industry, oil and gas, career journey, MBA, engineering, energy transition, STEM education, personal development, industry challenges, leadership, oil and gas, chemicals

In this episode, Samantha Martinez Castillo, a seasoned leader in the energy industry shares her journey from a small town in Mexico to becoming Americas land vice president at SLB. She discusses the challenges of overcoming biases, the importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry, and the need for continuous learning. The conversation also touches on balancing work and family life, cultural adaptation, and the exciting future of the energy sector.

Takeaways

Samantha's journey reflects resilience and adaptability.

Diversity and inclusion are crucial for industry growth.

Continuous learning is essential for career advancement.

Cultural adaptation enhances professional experiences.

Balancing work and family requires setting boundaries.

Perfectionism can hinder personal and professional growth.

The energy industry is evolving with technology and innovation.

Overcoming biases is a collective responsibility.

Language barriers can be overcome with commitment.

The future of energy is bright with new opportunities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Samantha Martinez-Castillo

03:28 Samantha's Journey in the Energy Industry

06:03 Overcoming Biases and Challenges

08:50 Cultural Adaptation and Language Barriers

11:35 Balancing Family and Career

14:03 The Future of the Energy Industry

16:53 Key Takeaways for Aspiring Professionals

19:41 Rapid Fire Round and Final Thoughts

Keywords

energy industry, leadership, diversity, inclusion, career journey, overcoming bias, cultural adaptation, work-life balance, future of energy, continuous learning, oil and gas, chemicals

In this engaging conversation, Brandon Spencer, President of ABB’s Motion Business, discuss leadership, innovation, and the shifting energy landscape. Brandon shares how being the “oxygen” in the room shapes his leadership, why optimism is his superpower, and how embracing both wins and losses drives growth. From challenging age-related biases to redefining leadership titles, Brandon offers fresh, actionable insights for professionals navigating today’s evolving energy sector.

Key Takeaways

Why Brandon calls his leadership style “oxygen”

How Brandon is challenging age bias in leadership

The story behind leading with “won’t titles”—and why it matters

How team culture fuels innovation

The power of optimism and adaptability in leadership

Real talk: losses, learning, and leading with humility

Why the future of energy demands flexibility, not perfection

Opportunities ahead in solving energy poverty

Why mentorship isn’t optional—it’s essential

Advice for young professionals entering the energy industry

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brendan Spencer's Journey

02:28 Career Path and Key Decisions

06:24 Leadership Philosophy and Biases

11:29 The Energy Industry Landscape

16:31 Opportunities and Challenges in Energy Transition

21:41 Reflections on Career and Decision-Making

27:56 Leadership Insights and Personal Philosophy

33:58 Navigating Challenges and Losses

37:03 Career Development and Overcoming Biases

Keywords

leadership, energy industry, overcoming biases, career growth, mentorship, ABB, innovation, team success, personal journey, future of energy, oil, gas, chemicals

In this episode, Dr. Lance Mortlock (linkedin.com/in/dr-lance-mortlock-01b36b22), a Managing Partner at Ernst & Young (EY) and energy transformation expert discusses his journey in the energy sector, cultural adaptations, industry resistance to change, and the accelerating pace of innovation. He emphasizes digital transformation and energy transition, drawing insights from his book 'Disaster Proof' and introducing his upcoming book 'Outside In Inside Out'. The conversation highlights the need for effective talent management and strategic planning in the energy landscape.

Takeaways

• Dr. Mortlock's journey reflects the importance of adaptability in diverse cultures.
• Resistance to change is a common challenge in the energy sector.
• Organizations need to embrace digital transformation to stay relevant.
• Scenario planning is crucial for managing risk and uncertainty.
• Talent management strategies are essential for long-term success.
• The energy transition requires a balance between sustainability and affordability.
• Effective communication is key to executing strategic initiatives.
• Leaders must prioritize long-term thinking over short-term gains.
• Innovation in technology is reshaping the energy landscape.
• The intersection of internal and external strategies is vital for success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Lance Mortlock

02:32 Dr. Mortlock's Journey in the Energy Industry

06:00 Cultural Adaptability in Global Energy Markets

09:22 Resistance to Change in the Energy Sector

12:34 The Acceleration of Change Post-COVID

14:27 Trends in Digital Transformation and Automation

17:44 The Importance of Talent Management

19:04 Insights from 'Disaster Proof' Book

23:23 Overview of 'Outside In Inside Out' Book

27:26 Promoting Balance Between Internal and External Focus

32:24 Opportunities for Growth in the Energy Sector

35:06 Long-term Challenges in Energy Transition Leadership

Keywords

energy transformation, oil and gas, leadership, change management, digital transformation, talent management, scenario planning, strategy, innovation, energy transition, chemicals, Lance Mortlock, EY, Ernst & Young

In this episode,Gary Reid, President and CEO of Madison Industrial Group, shares his three-decade journey in the oil and gas, process and other industries. Discover the importance of customer experience, the impact of diverse industry exposure, and the challenges and opportunities in the sector. Gary also explores how technology drives sustainability and innovation, emphasizing humility and continuous learning in leadership. Perfect for aspiring professionals seeking valuable insights!

Takeaways

• Gary Reid has over 30 years of experience in the energy sector.
• Customer experience is crucial for understanding industry needs.
• Diverse industry exposure enhances problem-solving skills.
• The oil and gas industry faces both challenges and opportunities.
• Technology plays a pivotal role in energy transition.
• Humility is essential for effective leadership.
• Continuous learning is key to personal and professional growth.
• Creating an environment for innovation is vital for success.
• Every experience, good or bad, contributes to growth.
• The energy industry must balance growth with environmental responsibility.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gary Reid and His Journey

11:04 The Importance of Customer Service Experience

16:20 Navigating Different Industries

20:54 Challenges and Opportunities in the Oil and Gas Industry

25:43 The Role of Technology in the Energy Sector

30:25 Adapting to New Technologies in the Energy Sector

34:41 Advice to My Younger Self

39:42 Leadership Insights and Unwinding Strategies

Keywords

Gary Reid, Oil and Gas, Leadership, Technology, Customer Experience, Industry Challenges, Personal Growth, Energy Transition, Humility, Innovation, Canada, USA, Calgary, Madison, Industrial, Group