Halliburton’s BELIEVE employee resource group hosted an Energy Panel Discussion with Black business owners, innovators, and industry professionals.
In celebration of Black History Month, Halliburton’s BELIEVE employee resource group (ERG) hosted an Energy Panel Discussion: “Diverse Perspectives on the Energy Industry, Technology Advancements, and Industry Trends.” The esteemed panel included Black business owners, innovators, and industry professionals who discussed emerging trends in sustainability and digitalization, as well as challenges and opportunities in the energy sector.
BELIEVE President RJ Jenkins said, "BELIEVE looks forward to its annual marquee event during Black History Month. We believe programs such as the energy panel discussion add intrinsic value to Halliburton and cultivate a strong culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)."
The panel included Chicovia Scott, renewable natural gas commercial manager for Chevron, George Yaw Owusu, chairman and CEO of Mansa Engineering and Mansa Holdings, and Michael K. Opoku, PhD, president of SurgePower Materials. Each shared anecdotes about their experiences as innovators and early adopters of new technologies. They discussed the challenges and resistance they encountered and their ability to persevere and provide value within the energy sector, global communities, and for consumers.
The panelist emphasized the importance of balance – knowing when to persist, pivot, or acknowledge the loss and learn from it. Opoku, an inventor and Halliburton Labs’ participant, talked about the issues he encountered and the solutions he developed to sustainably source materials and natural resources. His battery technology helps address problems with cost, supply chain risk, scalability, and non-renewable materials.
While all the panelists showcased their technical expertise and extensive experience in the energy sector, their commitment to diversity of thought was a constant theme of the discussion. It is also the foundation of Halliburton’s “Respect” company value and critical to the company’s efforts.
“A strong culture of DEI is paramount to success,” Jenkins said. “Employee resource groups are a conduit for initiatives, programs, and events directly linked to increased revenue, profitability, and innovation.”
To learn more about Halliburton's ERGs or our commitment to DEI, visit our Social page.
