Oluwafunmilayo Gboyesola Erinle is a prominent Nigerian engineer making waves in the U.S. energy sector. She shares her insights on leadership, innovation, and her remarkable journey from Nigeria to becoming a key figure at Halliburton, one of the world’s largest energy services companies. Based in Humble, Texas, Erinle who has been recognized for her contributions to safety, sustainability, and operational excellence in the industry speaks in this in interview.
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Can you tell us about your journey from Nigeria to the United States and how you got started in the energy sector?

My journey began in Nigeria, where I graduated as the Best Graduating Female Engineer from Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife with a degree in Chemical Engineering. I was always fascinated by the energy sector because of its impact on the global economy and its potential for innovation. After university, I joined Schlumberger as a Field Engineer, specializing in Sand Face Completions and Coiled Tubing. That experience was pivotal—it provided me with a solid foundation in the technical aspects of energy exploration and production and prepared me for the various roles I would later take on at Halliburton.

You’ve held several key positions at Halliburton, including being the first female Operations Country Manager for Halliburton Nigeria. How did that role shape your career, and what were some of the challenges you faced?

Becoming the first female Operations Country Manager for Halliburton Nigeria was both a significant milestone and a tremendous challenge. It was an opportunity to lead large-scale operations and drive business growth in a very competitive and dynamic environment. One of the main challenges was ensuring high-quality customer service and maintaining exceptional safety standards while also driving innovation and operational efficiency. Navigating these demands required strategic thinking and the ability to manage diverse teams effectively. It was a role that tested my leadership skills and adaptability, but it also laid the groundwork for my current role here in the U.S.

What motivated your move to the United States, and how has your experience at Halliburton’s North Belt Campus in Texas influenced your perspective on the global energy sector?

My move to the U.S. was driven by a desire to broaden my experience and take on new challenges in a different market. At Halliburton’s North Belt Campus in Texas, I had the opportunity to lead health, safety, environment, and service quality (HSE & SQ) strategies on a much larger scale. The experience here has been incredibly enriching. I’ve been able to work closely with global teams and understand the nuances of the U.S. energy market while applying best practices that have a global impact. It has reinforced my belief in the importance of integrating safety, sustainability, and innovation into every aspect of energy operations.

In your current role as Global Continuous Improvement Manager, you’re known for fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. How do you approach this, and what impact has it had on Halliburton’s global operations?

In my role as Global Continuous Improvement Manager, my focus is on driving efficiency and sustainability across all levels of the organization. I believe that fostering a culture of continuous improvement starts with knowledge sharing and empowering teams to think creatively and strategically about their work. By promoting best practices across different geographies and encouraging collaboration, we’ve been able to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance our service delivery. This approach has had a significant impact on our global operations, allowing us to stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry.

You’ve been a strong advocate for safety and sustainability in the energy sector. Can you share some of the initiatives you’ve led to enhance these areas at Halliburton?

Safety and sustainability are at the core of everything we do. At Halliburton, I’ve led several initiatives to enhance our HSE programs and integrate sustainability into our operations. For example, we developed an integrated management system that aligns with both company goals and global industry standards. This system has helped us achieve successful internal and external audits and has set new benchmarks for safety and environmental practices within the industry. By incorporating advanced safety protocols and leveraging new technologies, we’ve been able to ensure that our operations are not only efficient but also environmentally sustainable and socially responsible.
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Your story is particularly inspiring to many aspiring engineers and leaders, especially women. What advice would you give to those looking to break into the energy sector or advance their careers?

My advice to aspiring engineers and leaders, particularly women, is to believe in themselves and their capabilities. The energy sector is challenging, but it also offers incredible opportunities for those willing to work hard and innovate. It’s important to build a strong foundation in your chosen field, continually seek learning opportunities, and not be afraid to take on roles outside your comfort zone. Networking and mentorship are also key—learning from those who have walked the path can provide valuable insights and support. And most importantly, always maintain a commitment to safety, quality, and sustainability in whatever you do.

Looking ahead, what are your future goals, both personally and professionally, as you continue to make your mark in the energy sector?

Professionally, my goal is to continue driving innovation and sustainability in the energy sector. I want to contribute to the development of new technologies and strategies that not only improve operational efficiency but also reduce environmental impact. Personally, I hope to mentor the next generation of engineers and leaders, particularly women, to encourage more diversity and inclusion in the industry. I believe that diverse perspectives are crucial for innovation and problem-solving, and I want to help foster an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and make a difference.
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