I am pretty excited about a session at the Women's Global Leadership Conference in November.  It promises a high level look at the basics of the hydrocarbon stream then helps people understand how to talk about the industry.  Sounds simple, right?  Actuallly, talking about our work may be one of the most effective ways for us all to change the way the world looks at our business.  

Here is an example of something I wish I could speak to more intelligently:

Last summer, my family and I were at the beach.  We like to debate and our views are very diverse.  Of course, I think the energy industry has a somewhat undeserved bad rep.  My conversation partner detested the fact that he utilized hydrocarbon at all.  The conversation always comes up because of the oil rigs on the horizon when beaching along the Gulf Coast...it is getting to be a tradition. 

"Look at the bottom of your feet,"  I said.

"What?"

"No Tar.  No Tar. No Spills. Remember the incessant post beach tar scrubbing sessions when you were a kid? If that isn't improvement.."

Now, this would be a great time to nail down my victory with some AMAZING facts and figures about zero-discharge rules and compliance.  My closing was ok, something about strict regulations etc. etc. but I wouldn't have received an A+ on the debate forum.

So, trusty pen in hand, I can't wait to take down the kind of facts and figures that turn positive opinions toward this amazing industry. 

What are some good facts that you think everyone in the industry should know?  Let's get the word out!!

http://www.wglnetwork.com/

Conference Session:

Energy Industry Explained: What You Must Know in Today's Market

This workshop starts with a refresher on the basics of the upstream and downstream energy value chain and then takes it to the next level, teaching you how to talk about the industry, economy and the environment - and how they interact - in a knowledgeable way. Panelists will discuss the complex relationships among the global economy, the price of oil, and supply and demand, and how they impact the viability of funding and developing new technology and alternative energy resources. Public opinions and misnomers about energy will also be discussed.