Farisha Ragbirsingh
Programme Committee Vice Chair
In The Spotlight
What career advice would you give your younger self?
Read one SPE paper everyday. Build relationships within your organisation as well as academia and ideally get a sponsor who will advocate for your development and help support your growth professionally by exposing you to the right opportunities.
What do you think are the benefits of being a member of SPE?
Networking with other energy professionals and having access to a wealth of knowledge at my fingertips through OnePetro. I joined the student chapter of SPE at Imperial College and have maintained my membership since then actively participating in other sections in Aberdeen, London and KL. I really enjoy and value the ability to volunteer my time to an industry that is so dynamic and is also very rewarding.
Best Achievement so far?
Working in different continents doing a job I love.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
A mathematics teacher and then latterly, I wanted to be a lawyer. I enjoy coaching and mentoring younger engineers so sharing my knowledge and experience allows me to connect to the next generation of engineers so in some sense, teaching is part of my work.
What are the main career stepping stones you have taken?
I started my career as a chemical engineer working on an ammonia manufacturing plant responsible for optimising the process plant which I enjoyed immensely as I had the chance to witness theoretical optimisation efforts put into practise. A pivotal point came when I was presented with the opportunity to study Petroleum Engineering full time which I took up and never looked back. I was not fully convinced that I wanted to move away from Chemical engineering, however, the course at Imperial College was very fulfilling and prepared me well for the multicultural and high paced environments that I would later thrive in throughput my career. Throughout this time, I have been able to take control of my own development whilst mentoring and coaching others along the way.
Anything you would do differently?
No
Who has been your greatest influence?
My parents through their hard work and dedication to their family
What’s your idea of perfect retirement?
Teaching yoga on a beach
What would your autobiography be called?
The lessons I learnt from Harry
What is the best way to motivate others?
Once their aspirations and goals are clearly understood, incentivise them to perform to the best of their ability. In recent times, the ability to work flexibly has been a real game changer for many office based employees and understanding that renumeration can be more than a paycheck is important.
Your favourite stress-buster?
A long run preferably along a beach
What’s your dream job?
Conde Nast Travel Correspondent
If you were a character in a TV series or movie who would you be?
Wonder Woman
What’s on your bucket list – the things you still want to accomplish?
Travel around the globe, ideally with my job.
