Calls to action over the gender pay gap and inclusivity were among the hot topics at the Women in Energy event , hosted by Energy Voice.
Held at the Robert Gordon University’s Sir Ian Wood building in Garthdee, over 120 people attended the discussion around workplace diversity.
A panel of top industry names were in attendance, including Deidre Michie, Chief Executive of Oil and Gas UK, Brenda Wylie of the Oil and Gas Authority, Greta Lydecker, managing director of Chevron Upstream Europe and Dr Louise Slaney, Medical Director of Iqarus.
Deidre Michie opened proceedings, discussing the importance of balancing work and family life, along with issues such as leadership and the importance of choosing a mentor to help support your career.
She said: “I think it is great that this event is being used to shine a spotlight on what is a very important subject matter for us all.
“It is very important that this industry does encourage inclusivity, diversity and also gender balance.”
When asked about equal pay, the panel said it was important the issue was addressed, and added that practical steps can be taken.
Greta Lydecker said: “You don’t want to confuse equal pay for the same job as the gender pay gap.
“At Chevron, we can say very confidently that we pay equally, the men and women, working at the same level the same amount.
“But the gender pay gap, that’s not what it is all about.
“It’s all about looking at all the women in that company and all of the men at that company and seeing if there is a difference in the pay.”
The OGA’s Brenda Wylie added: “I don’t face much of a gender pay gap, I know this because I would always ask my colleagues what they were paid.
“I make sure that I am on the same salary as my peers.”
Part of the proceeds from the event are going to the Aberdeen Science Centre, which helps engage young people with science and technology.
