Breaking Barriers: A journey of a Pakistani woman from land rigs to offshore on the North Sea
March 2025
Continuing our 'Breaking Barriers' series, YP Committee Member Uzma Chisti tells us her story.
From Land Rigs to the North Sea: A journey of a Pakistani woman from land rigs to offshore on the North Sea
The journey from the dusty land rigs of Pakistan to the harsh offshore environment of the North Sea has been nothing short of extraordinary. Beginning a career in the oil and gas industry as a woman on land rigs in Pakistan, she was often met with curiosity, skepticism, and the unspoken challenge of proving herself in a male-dominated field. But those early days shaped her resilience, technical expertise, and ability to adapt to tough conditions.
Determined to push her limits further, she set her sights on offshore drilling—an environment that demands the highest level of skill, mental fortitude, and adaptability. Moving to Norway was a life-changing decision, offering the opportunity to work in the North Sea, one of the most challenging offshore regions in the world. The transition was not easy—adapting to a different culture, extreme weather, and an entirely new operational environment came with its fair share of obstacles.
One of the biggest challenges was breaking the stereotype that offshore work is not for women. In many cases, she was the only woman on the rig, and proving her capabilities was a continuous process. There were moments of doubt, but she also found support from colleagues who valued skill over gender. Over time, she built strong professional relationships and gained recognition for her contributions.
Being a Pakistani woman working offshore in the North Sea is a milestone she holds with immense pride. It symbolises not just a personal achievement, but also a step forward for women in energy, particularly those from regions where such opportunities remain limited. Her journey stands as a testament to perseverance, passion, and the willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone.
To young professionals—especially women—aspiring to enter this industry, the message is simple: challenge the norms, embrace discomfort, and keep pushing forward. The offshore world is demanding but equally rewarding. If she can do it, so can others.
The path is tough, but the view from the top deck of a rig in the middle of the ocean? Unparalleled.
