Thao Pham is Living Her Dream of Becoming an Energy Storyteller

We love telling the stories of our members. They hail from difference parts of the industry and are engaged in different kinds of careers. Meet Thao Pham. We met her in 2016 when she joined Pink Petro while working for Edelman PR. She's now a content marketing manager for Kraton, doing what she always wanted to do: tell stories.

What did you want to be when you were younger?

I always wanted to be a storyteller, and I especially love the ones about human perseverance and innovation. The energy industry, in my mind, has given me the best opportunities to tell those stories.

How did you get into the energy industry?

I was working with a local PR firm when I was recruited by a chemical company. It was there that I learned how petrochemicals play such a critical role in our everyday lives. Then I went to work for the upstream side where I saw the incredible talent and technology it took to explore and produce energy sources from some of the most challenging places on earth.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Don’t let other people’s limitations limit you.

What’s been your favorite memory working in energy?

I don’t have a specific memory but I love the opportunities I get to work with people all over the world. It’s incredible to be connected to someone across the ocean through a common goal.

In one word, describe the energy industry.

Dynamic.

What’s your favorite thing about the industry?

The industry affects the lives of people all over the world. It’s an honor to be a part of that.

What’s your least favorite thing about the industry?

The cyclical nature of the industry. Seeing so many layoffs and people affected by the downturn is heartbreaking.

Where do you see the industry in 10 years?

I expect that investments made by the industry and organizations such as Pink Petro will result in great milestones for gender equality. Advancements in technology will also open new doors for women in the energy.

Why did you join Pink Petro?

I joined Pink Petro because I want to be connected with relevant people and resources within the industry. I also like the idea of having a community that offers open mentorship to its members, which is evident in the conversations throughout the network.

How do you see Pink Petro impacting the industry?

There is a lot of noise when it comes to resources for career and leadership development. Pink Petro cuts through the noise by providing a truly valuable network that enable women to help each other be successful in their careers.

How would you describe Pink Petro to someone who is not a member?

A community that provides mentorship, professional resources and networking opportunities for women who want to grow and bring others with them.