This February 11th, we celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a day dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of women in STEM fields. At SciDev, we’re proud to highlight the achievements of our own remarkable women. This week, we shine a spotlight on Leslie Jimenez, a Product Development Chemist based in Houston, Texas.

 

Leslie’s journey in the energy sector is a testament to her dedication, passion, and continuous pursuit of knowledge. Starting in quality control, she quickly gravitated towards research and development, spending 11 years specializing in stimulation and drilling fluids. Now, six months into her role at SciDev, Leslie focuses on developing and applying cutting-edge stimulation fluids. She is a driving force in energy innovation.

“My career has been about continuous learning and contributing to innovative solutions,” Leslie shares. This commitment is evident in her work on the FerriSlik project, a source of particular pride. Tasked with addressing iron contamination and “gummy bear” formation – a significant challenge for clients – Leslie plays a crucial role in lab testing, developing testing methodologies, and formulating new solutions. “This project has presented numerous opportunities for innovation,” she explains, highlighting the team’s exploration of alternative chemistries and more efficient testing protocols.

 

Leslie’s passion for innovation extends beyond individual projects. She emphasizes the importance of open communication and collaboration within and outside the team, fostering an environment where fresh perspectives and key industry challenges are readily addressed. This collaborative spirit, combined with a leadership that welcomes questions and ideas, fuels SciDev’s drive to improve oil and gas production processes and fosters innovation.

Her career has evolved alongside advancements in oil and gas technology, transitioning from boron crosslinker technology to specializing in advanced friction reducers. This adaptability reflects the industry’s changing needs and Leslie’s commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation.

 

Looking ahead, Leslie is excited to contribute to SciDev’s success while expanding her own expertise. Her advice to aspiring young engineers, especially women, in the energy sector is clear: “Develop strong fundamentals, embrace continual learning, seek out mentors, and be patient and persistent. Building a successful career takes time and effort.” She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and perseverance.

 

Leslie’s insights on the challenges facing the oil and gas industry are particularly relevant in today’s climate. She points to energy transition and cost optimization as key concerns. She believes that SciDev’s focus on developing next-generation drilling and completion fluids with minimal environmental impact, alongside high-performance, cost-effective oilfield products, is crucial for addressing these challenges. She also emphasizes the importance of embracing technology and data analytics to better serve clients. “Technology is continuously evolving,” she says, “so SciDev should continuously develop targeted solutions that leverage the latest technologies and address the evolving needs of the oilfield, working closely with clients to ensure effective product delivery.” She sees technology as key to the future of the industry.

 

During our interview with Leslie, we asked a few more questions to delve deeper into her perspectives on women in STEM and SciDev’s approach to integrating policy, science, and sustainability.

In your perspective, how do we at SciDev successfully integrate the domains of policy, science, and sustainability in our work, and why do you believe this integration is significant?

“Effectively integrating sustainability and science into policy requires fostering interdisciplinary collaborations among policymakers, scientists, and sustainability experts. Addressing complex challenges necessitates integrated solutions developed through a collaborative approach that promotes both innovation and effectiveness.”

Do you have any advice for young women in science or younger females wanting to pursue a degree in science?

“Success in this field is less about innate brilliance and much more about dedication and resilience. Consistent effort and refusing to give up are key. I believe this field is open to anyone with the drive and commitment to continue learning. It is also important to be confident in yourself and your abilities. Do not let anyone tell you that you cannot achieve your goals. With hard work and dedication, you can do anything you set your mind to.”

Why do you think women are historically underrepresented in STEM?

 “Women have historically faced significant barriers and restrictive gender roles that limited their access to STEM fields. Although women now represent 50% of the overall workforce, their participation in STEM remains disproportionately low, ranging from 25% to 40%. The demanding nature of certain STEM careers, combined with a growing focus on work-life balance, may be a factor in career decisions.”

How do you think we could reach more girls and young women to go into STEM? What projects or experiences do you think would get more young females inspired?

“We can inspire more girls in STEM by starting early, creating supportive environments, and linking scientific concepts to their interests, such as art, music, and sports. Parents play a key role in encouraging their daughters and cultivating a positive mindset. Showcasing diverse female role models in STEM fields and ensuring equitable access to STEM education and resources are also crucial steps. These combined efforts can empower girls to envision themselves as future scientists, engineers, and innovators.”

We are incredibly proud to have Leslie on the SciDev team. Her story exemplifies the power of women in science and inspires us all to strive for innovation and excellence.