Graham Dallas

Look at each opportunity as it becomes available. Listen, learn, then act

An opportunity to learn, an opportunity to share, an opportunity to meet great people. Coupled obviously with the high quality events and activities throughout the year.

Aside from my family, surviving in the oil and gas arena over 20 years, through 3 downturns and 4 lay-offs and still getting a buzz from it.

Always something related to engineering, even from a young age. Although in my late teens I was obsessed with Total Quality Management.

There have been a few significant ones; I started off with an apprenticeship in a factory, as soon as I finished I moved into precision equipment design. I joined the Oil and Gas Industry on the strength of a phone call interview, which was over 20 years ago so I must be doing something right. Finally, taking the plunge to move from Engineering into Sales and Business Development around 17 years ago. Luck and timing has played a large part in most of the above.

Not really. With the benefit of hindsight I have had a few questionable career moves and made a few interesting decisions, but I’ve gained experience as much from any negative aspects as I have from positive ones. You can go through life with regrets but it’s not going to change anything.

I got my interest in engineering from my father initially but I have typically been influenced by a number of former managers and mentors. I’m also fascinated by historical engineers who have knocked up the most amazing things in their sheds or on their kitchen table.

Hopefully still being able to contribute something to the world, whether that’s to the Oil & Gas industry, engineering or just life in general. Otherwise, a quiet life at home with family and friends nearby.

Right place, right time.

Show passion and enthusiasm in everything you do and always lead by example. Treat everyone with equal respect, give everyone a voice and have the courtesy to listen.

I try not to “do” stress but on occasion I shut myself in my music-room and play my electric guitars very loudly.

Most likely music related, probably running/owning a music studio or venue.

It’s not so much about the place, it’s the company. Warm and sunny can always help though, maybe a quiet Greek Island away from the crowds. I am equally happy and content spending time at home.

Books – non-fiction typically biographies, Music, mainly rock orientated but anything that has real artistic value, so not the churned out manufactured stuff that seems to have appeal these days. TV, I genuinely watch very little TV other than the news but I do enjoy movies.

Scotty from Star Trek, you can fix anything and always save the day.

To finishing rebuilding my Land Rover, it’s become more of a lifestyle choice rather than a project. Learn to play the piano properly.