Women continue to take on bigger roles in the oil and gas industry, with a new generation of female professionals seeking careers in scientific or technical roles, said experts ahead of a major industry event in Abu Dhabi, UAE, stated industry leaders scheduled to take part in the Adipec (Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference) Women in Energy conference next month.

Held as part of the Adipec, more than 200 delegates are expected to attend Women in Energy, offering a full day of discussions on strategies aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion within the global oil and gas industry.

While female professionals are increasingly well-represented in business management, or administration roles, a growing number are also seeking opportunities in technical fields, said the industry experts.

"Women are dramatically under-represented in roles traditionally viewed as men’s work, such as science or engineering careers," remarked Aida Araissi, the founder and CEO of the Bilateral US-Arab Chamber of Commerce.

Araissi has worked extensively with oil and gas industry leaders, helping forge stronger business ties between the US and Middle East.

"There are many young women studying and qualifying to work in these areas, and it is time to create more opportunities," remarked Araissi.

“We need to mentor women in achieving their potential, and ensuring that their contribution is visible to industry leaders and decision makers as they move forward in their careers,” she stated.

The Women in Energy conference will include a full day of sessions aimed at highlighting the contribution women are making in the industry, and how industry leaders, both men and women, can join hands to build a diverse and inclusive workspace for future generations.

Panel discussions will feature women working at several international and local companies, including Petronas, Lukoil, Nova Chemicals and Tatweer Petroleum, sharing their knowledge and experience, and exploring strategies for promoting diversity across the board.-TradeArabia News Service