Ghazal Abou Al Ela is an experienced computer engineer with over seven years in the oil and gas and water pipeline industry.  Currently she is working as a business development manager at Petro IT, focusing on driving systems digitization and innovation in pipeline management. 

1. Share your journey into the oil and gas and water pipeline industry. What initially drew you to this field, and what motivated you to pursue a career here?

I began my journey in the oil and gas and water pipeline industry over seven years ago, driven by my fascination with large-scale infrastructure projects and their critical role in global energy and water supply. As a computer engineer, I saw the immense potential for digitization to transform this industry, improving efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The challenge of integrating advanced technology into traditional pipeline management systems motivated me to pursue a career where I could make a tangible impact.

2. As an experienced computer engineer in a predominantly male industry, what are some of the key challenges you've faced, and how have you overcome them?

One of the key challenges has been overcoming biases and stereotypes in a male-dominated field. Early in my career, I sometimes felt my technical expertise was underestimated. To overcome this, I focused on consistently demonstrating my skills and knowledge, building a strong track record of successful projects. Networking and finding mentors within the industry also helped me navigate these challenges. By actively participating in industry conferences and forums, I was able to establish myself as a credible and reliable professional.

3. In your current role as a business development manager at Petro IT, what are your primary responsibilities, and how do you leverage your technical background to drive systems digitization and innovation in pipeline management?

As a business development manager at Petro IT, my primary responsibilities include identifying new business opportunities, fostering client relationships, and driving the adoption of our digital solutions. My technical background enables me to understand the complex needs of our clients and develop tailored solutions that enhance pipeline management. I leverage my expertise to bridge the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders, ensuring that our innovations are both technically sound and aligned with market demands.

4. With your commitment to advancing industry standards through digital solutions, what are some of the most impactful technological innovations you've seen or worked on in recent years?

One of the most impactful innovations I've worked on is the integration of IoT (Internet of Things) technology with pipeline management systems. This allows for real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance, significantly reducing downtime and operational risks. Additionally, the development of advanced data analytics platforms has enabled better decision-making and efficiency. Implementing mobile applications for field operations has also streamlined processes, making data collection and communication more efficient.

5. Looking ahead, what do you envision for the future of the pipeline industry, particularly in terms of digitization and technological advancements? How can these changes improve industry practices and standards?

The future of the pipeline industry lies in further integration of digital technologies such as AI, machine learning, and blockchain. These advancements will enhance predictive maintenance, improve safety through better risk management, and increase transparency in operations. Digitization will lead to more efficient resource management and reduced environmental impact. By adopting these technologies, the industry can set higher standards for performance, sustainability, and safety, ultimately leading to more resilient and reliable infrastructure.

6. What advice would you give to young people, especially women, considering a career in the pipeline industry? How can the industry attract and support more females and young professionals to ensure a diverse and innovative future workforce?

As a young professional myself, my advice to those considering a career in the pipeline industry is to embrace every learning opportunity and not be intimidated by the challenges. The industry offers a wide range of roles that can be both rewarding and impactful. For young women, it's important to find mentors and allies who can provide guidance and support. Building a strong professional network can open doors and offer valuable insights.

To attract and support more females and young professionals, the industry should:

• Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Highlight the success stories of women and young professionals in the industry. Showcasing diverse role models can inspire others to follow suit.
• Offer Mentorship Programs: Establish formal mentorship programs where experienced professionals can guide newcomers. This can help build confidence and provide a clearer career path.
• Create Supportive Work Environments: Ensure that workplaces are inclusive and supportive. This includes implementing policies that promote work-life balance and provide opportunities for continuous learning and development.
• Encourage Continuous Learning: Support ongoing education and training opportunities to help young professionals stay updated with the latest technologies and industry trends.
• Highlight Career Advancement Opportunities: Clearly outline potential career paths and advancement opportunities within the industry. Showing young professionals that there is room for growth can be a strong motivator.

By focusing on these areas, the pipeline industry can attract a diverse and innovative workforce that drives future advancements and maintains high standards.