Agenda
7:00 – 8:45 a.m.
Registration open, breakfast served
Sponsorship available
Contact Melissa Smith for more information
7:30 – 8:30 a.m.
Networking breakfast and panel
Fueling the future: What young professionals want in energy careers
This is an add-on registration item and capacity is limited. Any questions, contact melissa.smith@gulfenergyinfo.com
What will it take to attract and retain the next generation of energy leaders?
In this exclusive breakfast session, a dynamic panel of university students and early-career professionals will share their unfiltered insights on what they value in an employer, what excites them about the energy industry, and what might drive them away. From purpose and culture to compensation, flexibility, and leadership development, discover what really matters to the future workforce.
Whether you’re a hiring manager, team leader, or shaping your company’s people strategy, this is your chance to hear directly from the talent you’re trying to recruit. Walk away with actionable insights that will help you build more compelling, inclusive, and future-ready career paths in energy.
Moderator: Tracy Gray, Strategic Business Director, Detechtion
Panelists: Julia Ferrara, Financial Performance Analyst, Chevron
University Student panelists to be confirmed soon
8:40 – 8:45 a.m.
Welcome remarks
Gulf Energy Information
8:45 – 9:15 a.m.
KEYNOTE
9:15 – 9:35 a.m.
PRESENTATION: From expert to executive: The mindset shifts that change everything
In technical industries, leadership promotions are often based on expertise and execution. But the real transition begins when an individual must evolve from being the go-to problem solver to the strategic decision-maker—someone who not only delivers results, but also inspires others to rise.
This session focuses on the often-unspoken inner shifts required to truly lead—beyond job titles or project scopes. Attendees will leave equipped to lead more decisively, advocate for themselves, and own their leadership identity—without sacrificing authenticity.
Cindy Anderson, Chief Operating Officer, SGA Natural Gas Association
9:35 – 10:20 a.m.
PANEL: Evolving your mindset for leadership
Leadership isn’t just a new job title, it’s a new way of thinking. Whether you’re stepping into a corporate leadership position, taking the reins as a team lead, or rising as a technical expert, the transition requires more than skills, it requires a change of mindset.
This panel will explore the pivotal changes in perspective, priorities, and presence that define successful leadership transitions. From learning to delegate and empower others, to navigating visibility, influence, and self-doubt, our speakers will share personal insights and practical tools for those ready to lead with purpose.
Moderator: Molly Determan, President, Energy Workforce & Technology Council
Panelists:
Donna Broz, Engineering Technical Services Manager, Coastal Chemical
Mandeep Grewal, Manager Training Centre of Expertise, TC Energy
More to be announced soon
10:20 – 10:50 a.m.
NETWORKING BREAK
Sponsored by Coastal Chemical
10:50 – 11:35 a.m.
PANEL: From projects to progress: Navigating the future of LNG
11:35 – 11:45 a.m.
ICEBREAKER
An opportunity to engage with your tablemates and explore some quick fire questions relating to the agenda topics. Suggested questions will be provided and hosts will be on hand to assist.
Sponsorship available
Contact Melissa Smith for more information
11:45 a.m. – 12:05 p.m.
PRESENTATION: Recognizing your inner critic
Erin Sorensen, GM Membrane Solutions, Air Products
12:05 – 1:30 p.m.
LUNCH
A buffet lunch will be served in the exhibit area, included in all delegate tickets
Sponsorship available
Contact Melissa Smith for more information
12:05 – 1:30 p.m.
SPECIAL EVENT
Women in Hydrogen 50 Luncheon & panel discussion
Honorees of the Hydrogen Economist’s Women in Hydrogen 50 program will be celebrated in a special luncheon. Guests will also enjoy an exclusive panel discussion.
This is an add-on registration item and capacity is limited. Any questions, contact melissa.smith@gulfenergyinfo.com
PANEL: Hydrogen in action
As global interest in hydrogen accelerates, attention is turning from ambition to action. Hydrogen projects are starting to take shape around the globe – fueled by innovative partnerships, cross-sector collaboration, and the drive to decarbonize hard-to-abate industries. Progress is unfolding in a rapidly shifting policy and funding environment, where uncertainty challenges even the most well-intentioned plans.
Whether you’re hydrogen-curious or actively involved, this session offers a strategic look at where the industry is heading, how innovations and partnerships are unlocking progress, and how leadership is taking shape in one of the most dynamic areas of the energy transition.
1:30 – 2:00 p.m.
KEYNOTE
2:00 – 2:45 p.m.
PANEL: Leading from the middle: Influence, impact, and identity
You’re no longer new to management, you’ve built skills, earned trust, and are delivering results. But at this stage, the challenge isn’t just about doing more, it’s about leading with influence, navigating ambiguity, and driving impact. Whether you’re managing large teams, collaborating cross-functionally, or leading technical strategy, mid-level leaders must balance execution with empowerment, and confidence with humility.
This panel explores how to lead from the middle with purpose and clarity.
Moderator: TBC
Panelists:
Rashawnda Dunbar, Customer Operations Manager, American Electric Power
More to be announced soon
2:45 – 3:05 p.m.
PRESENTATION
Captain Jessica Ryals, Offshore Installation Manager, Noble Corporation
3:05 – 3:25 p.m.
PRESENTATION: Leading out loud, with intention, not luck
In the energy sector, where technical excellence is expected but leadership space isn’t always offered, we’ve seen how often success is downplayed as luck rather than leadership. In this session, we’ll challenge that narrative.
This session is for those who are done playing small. It will dismantle the “just lucky” mindset that holds you back and share how to shift from the trusted doer to the undeniable leader. Attendees will gain practical mindset tools, language to own your impact, and the confidence to lead visibly in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.
Priya Nair, Manager, Software Customer Support & Training Operations, AspenTech/Emerson
3:25 – 3:55 p.m.
NETWORKING BREAK
Sponsored by Coastal Chemical
3:55 – 4:25 p.m.
FIRESIDE CHAT: The future of energy: Petrochemicals
Yasmine McColl, Global Business Development Leader Chemical Segment, Schneider Electric
4:25 – 5:10 p.m.
PANEL: You’ve earned this: The power of owning your success
What if we stopped questioning whether we belong and started owning the fact that we’ve earned every step of our success?
This first of two panels exploring the topic will challenge the familiar script of self-doubt and downplaying skills that are hard won and well-deserved. It’s time to move beyond imposter syndrome and stop apologizing for ambition. These leaders aren’t lucky, they’re qualified, capable, and have worked hard to get where they are. This panel will share tactics on how to unlock greater leadership potential by advocating for and empowering yourself.
Moderator: TBC
Panelists:
Ann Howell, Lead Advisor Assessments, Shell
Priyanka Juyal, District Account Manager, SLB
Sukhi Sidhu, Manager CM&I Strategy, TC Energy
5:10 – 5:20 p.m.
ICEBREAKER
An opportunity to engage with your tablemates and explore some quick fire questions relating to the agenda topics. Suggested questions will be provided and hosts will be on hand to assist.
Sponsorship available
Contact Melissa Smith for more information
5:20 – 5:25 p.m.
CLOSING REMARKS
Gulf Energy Information
5:25 – 7:00 p.m.
NETWORKING RECEPTION
Sponsorship available
Contact Melissa Smith for more information
Agenda
7:00 – 8:40 a.m.
Registration open, breakfast served
Sponsorship available
Contact Melissa Smith for more information
8:40 – 8:45 a.m.
Welcome remarks
Gulf Energy Information
8:45 – 9:15 a.m.
KEYNOTE
Stacey Orlandi, President, Chevron Renewable Energy Group
9:15 – 9:35 a.m.
PRESENTATION
TBC, Plains
9:35 – 10:25 a.m.
PANEL: Building career resilience in a changeable industry
Market volatility and restructuring aren’t new challenges in the energy industry. As professionals navigate uncertainty, one trait proves vitally important: career resilience.
In this straight-talking and practical session, our panelists will share how they’ve built, and rebuilt, careers through downturns, pivots, and disruption. From developing new skills to building their personal brand and learning how to stay relevant, this panel dives into what it really takes to adapt when the industry shifts around you. we will explore the tools, strategies, and mindset needed to future-proof your career such as agility, learning, networking, strategic career planning and more.
Moderator: to be confirmed
Panelists:
Emily Buchanan, Chief Compliance Officer, Noble Corporation
Chrystah Carter, HSE Training Supervisor, Plains
Raquel Clement, Digital Product Line Manager, Chevron
Maylu Ramones, NAO Stimulation Domain Associate, SLB
TBC, bp
10:55 – 11:15 a.m.
The future of energy: AI
PRESENTATION: AI and its applications in oil & gas
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the oil and gas industry by enhancing efficiency, safety, and decision-making processes. In this presentation, attendees will gain insights into AI applications in exploration, drilling, production, and maintenance and learn how AI enhances efficiency, reduces costs, improves decision-making, ensures operational safety, and drives future trends and innovations in the oil and gas industry.
Sarita Salunke, Subsurface Technology Principal, bp
11:15 – 11:35 a.m.
The future of energy: AI
PRESENTATION: AI as a catalyst for energy transition in oil & gas
Today, we stand at the intersection of technology, energy, and transformation. Artificial Intelligence is not just a tool—it’s a catalyst for change in the oil and gas sector and beyond. From optimizing asset performance to predicting maintenance needs and reducing emissions, AI is helping us unlock smarter, cleaner, and more efficient operations. Inclusive leaders are driving this change and redefining industry norms. The future of energy demands bold collaboration, visionary leadership, and responsible innovation.
Gaojing (Melody) Cao, Head of Products Asset Performance, SLB
11:35 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.
The future of energy: Electrification
PANEL: Surging ahead: Innovation, electrification and the future energy grid
Energy demand is rising faster than ever, from the electricity that powers our homes and workplaces to the additions to the grid such as electric vehicles and data centers. Extreme weather is putting added pressure on the grid – as we’ve seen here in Texas with ERCOT navigating record breaking demand during both summer heatwaves and winter storms, and this is a challenge being seen across the US and globally. This panel will take a big picture look at what this increased energy demand means for the grid, and how innovation is shaping the future of energy.
Moderator: Morgan Hollins, Partner, White & Case
Panelists:
Lisa Berry, Decarbonization Technology Director, Americas, GE Vernova
More to be announced soon
1:30 – 2:00 p.m.
KEYNOTE
2:00 – 2:20 p.m.
PRESENTATION
2:20 – 3.00 p.m.
PANEL: Psychological safety in action: Tackling bias and empowering teams
When people feel safe at work, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally, they speak up. They share ideas. They innovate. They thrive.
In an increasingly global and diverse workplace, psychological safety isn’t just about team dynamics, it’s also about navigating cultural differences, recognizing unconscious bias, and addressing microaggressions that can quietly erode trust and confidence. Psychological safety plays a powerful role in building teams that are more collaborative, more resilient, and more productive. It’s not just a “nice-to-have”, it’s a proven driver of business success, team performance, and employee well-being.
How do you foster a culture where every voice is valued, where diversity of thought is encouraged, and where people are empowered to bring their full selves to work? Whether you’re leading a global team or growing into a new leadership role, this panel will offer real-world tactics and practical ideas to help you build trust, drive engagement, and create space for others to thrive.
Moderator: Alexz Currie, Head of Sales Operations, Americas, Siemens Energy
Panelists:
Alisa Allen, Senior Consultant, Global Calcined Petroleum Coke Services Lead, Worley
Louise Carmichael, Vice President Talent & Development, Wood
More to be announced soon
3:00 – 3:10 p.m.
ICEBREAKER
An opportunity to engage with your tablemates and explore some quick fire questions relating to the agenda topics. Suggested questions will be provided and hosts will be on hand to assist.
Sponsorship available
Contact Melissa Smith for more information
3:40 – 4:25 p.m.
PANEL: Owning your success: From confidence to strategy
Confidence is a great start, but owning your success requires more than just believing in yourself. It demands intention, strategy, and daily habits that reinforce your value and leadership impact. This panel builds on day one’s panel owning your success: you earned this, moving beyond mindset into action. How do you advocate for your accomplishments, navigate bias or self-doubt, and ensure your contributions are seen and recognized? What does it look like to lead with authenticity while building influence? And how can you position yourself for advancement without waiting for permission?
This discussion will offer real-world advice and practical tools, from crafting a compelling personal narrative to speaking up in high-stakes moments, from building sponsors and allies to documenting wins in ways that matter. Our speakers will share what they’ve learned about visibility, voice, and value and how owning your success is a skill you can build, not just a trait you’re born with.
Moderator: TBC
Panelists:
Leah Kasparek, VP Head of Human Resources, Cameron LNG
Darya Swaby, Senior Director of Supply Chain Management, Sempra Infrastructure
Shaneek Williams, Service Delivery Manager, Oracle Energy & Water
More to be announced soon
4:25 – 4:35 p.m.
CLOSING REMARKS AND PRIZE GIVING
Gulf Energy Information
Bonus presentations will be available to view from October 27, 2025 for one year for all in person and livestream registrants.
From firefighting to forecasting: Reimagining energy operations with agentic AI
Ndidi Anyakora, Lead Data Scientist, Intelligent Core
Microaggression: Silent thief of organizational belonging
Sushree Chaudhuri, Engineering Group Supervisor, Bechtel India
Resilience isn’t a trait, it’s a toolset: Solving for visibility, value & voice in energy careers
Jennifer Daniel, Director, Innovation & External Relations, Century Group Nigeria
Agentic AI: Shifting risk management from reactive to proactive
Bao Tram Duong, Working Student Integrated Managment Systems, Thyssenkrupp Nucera
Transforming carbon from waste to resource
Kekeli Ekoue-Kovi, R&D Manaager, Baker Hughes
From contributor to commander: The internal shifts that make or break your leadership leap
Kellye Franklin-Nelson, Leadership Strategist & Performance Coach, Kellye Nelson
Crying in a portapotty and other life lessons
Carmel Glumac, Project Manager and Annie Cyranowski, Segment Project Engineer, Kiewit
Own it to lead it: Taking charge of your career in energy
Alana Hill, Principal Consultant, 2Hill Consulting
Cornerstones of career resilience – adaptability & grit
Neha Karankjar, Houston Digital Technology Center Manager, SLB
Empowering women: Building confidence and celebrating success
Jennifer Keach, Houston HSE Manager, SLB
The importance of growing your career, setting goals and reaching milestones along your journey
Laurie Knape, Program Manager, API
Facing the energy reality: How can the US meet its energy goals?
Sylvia Levya Martinez, Principal Anlayst, Wood Mackenzie
Redefining success: The power of owning your own story
Diana Lima, Business Unit Director North America, Vink Chemicals
Energy is everywhere, but not (yet) for everyone
Nikki Martin, President & CEO, EnerGeo Alliance
Three key steps to lead your career with confidence
Paola Martinez Acevedo, Diagnostic Engineer, Baker Hughes
Renewable fuels and circular economy to turn waste into power
Isis Mejias, Principal Consultant, Lummus Consultants
Owning your success: The grid map to standing fully in your power
Tracy Noel, Founder, Aion Worldwide
Redefining leadership at Lummus Consultants: Paving the way forward to build culture, drive growth, and deliver impact
Amalia Pantazidis, President, Lummus Consultants
Engaged & empowered: Embrace your personal brand to elevate your professional presence
Meagan Reed, Owner, Meagan Reed Consulting
The power in the middle: How managers shape voice, courage, and careers
Alessandra Castilla Ruy Blum, Global Category Manager – Fleet, SLB
Professional audacity: Unlocking career growth through confidence in accomplishments
Jenny Smith, Deputy General Counsel, Elimini
Mattering matters: The foundation of psychological safety
Caroline Wilkinson, Project Manager, SLB
Redefining credibility: Evolving from technical expert to strategic leader
Marilyn Zorn, Supervisor – Integrated Subsurface Geology, ExxonMobil
