2026 Women of H&P Awardees Announced

Samiya Sleem Shahbal honored with Woman of the Year Woman of H&P Award 

Samiya Sleem Shahbal, a document controller with the E&M team based in the Muscat office, has been named a Woman of H&P Award winner in the Woman of the Year category, recognizing her quiet dedication, teamwork and behind-the-scenes contributions during 18 years of service at H&P. 

Shahbal supports operations by working closely with PDO rigs to upload documentation directly into the eCCC (Electronic Check, Comply and Confirm) system. She also manages timesheets for the E&M department, including both office staff and rig-based supervisors—work that requires consistency, attention to detail and strong coordination across teams. 

“To me, this award represents the trust and appreciation of my team,” Shahbal said. “It reminds me that even small, consistent efforts — helping colleagues, staying positive and putting the team first — can make a meaningful impact.” 

Her pride in her work is closely tied to the success of those around her. Rather than a single defining moment, Shahbal said her proudest professional experiences have come from watching her team perform under pressure. 

“Seeing the team succeed, stay strong and achieve our goals despite the pressure made me truly proud,” she said. “It wasn’t just about the results, but the collaboration, trust and resilience we built along the way.” 

Throughout her career, Shahbal has navigated demanding workloads and high-pressure situations. She credits organization, clear communication and a positive mindset for helping her overcome those challenges. 

“With the support of my team, I was able to handle difficult situations successfully and grow stronger and more resilient,” she said. 

The Woman of the Year award reflects Shahbal’s willingness to step in and support others without expecting recognition. During particularly busy periods, she said, she has frequently taken on additional tasks to help colleagues manage heavy workloads and meet deadlines. 

“I didn’t do it for recognition,” she said. “I did it to help and support others.” 

That mindset defines how Shahbal views teamwork. 

“Being a team player means helping others, working together and always putting the team first,” she said. 

She credits her professional growth to the influence of a mentor who guided her with patience and integrity. 

“Their encouragement helped me build confidence, stay grounded and focus on teamwork and continuous growth,” Shahbal said. 

Integrity, humility and teamwork are the values that guide her work each day. She believes in doing the right thing, staying grounded and supporting those around her—even when the work happens quietly behind the scenes. 

“I’m motivated by knowing my work helps the team succeed, even if it’s not always seen,” she said. “I take pride in supporting others and growing every day.” 

Looking ahead, Shahbal hopes to continue learning, developing her skills and taking on greater responsibilities while staying true to the values that have shaped her career. 

Outside of work, she enjoys reading, walking and spending time with her family. She describes herself as caring, loving and friendly—“but with limits,” she added with a smile. 

Shahbal offered her thanks to the entire Oman team for their continued support and encouragement. 

“I’m grateful to work here and with the best colleagues,” she said. 

For women entering the industry, her advice is simple and heartfelt: believe in yourself, keep learning, speak up, seek mentors and support other women. “Be resilient,” she said. “You belong here, and you can make a real impact.” 

Kathryn Watson Named Women of H&P Humble Heroine Award Winner 

Kathryn Watson, an intelligence analyst with H&P’s Global Security team, has been named the recipient of the Women of H&P Award in the Humble Heroine category, recognizing her behind-the-scenes contributions and unwavering commitment to team success. 

Watson, who is based in Houston, has spent the past six years at H&P helping safeguard the company’s people and assets around the world. As part of Global Security, she analyzes large volumes of information to identify potential risks that could impact operations in diverse and often complex environments. 

“The Global Security team’s goal is to enable business in any environment,” Watson said. “My role is to sort through all the varied information coming in and figure out what is truly a potential risk that could affect our people and assets.” 

Despite the individual recognition, Watson emphasized that the award reflects a collective effort rather than personal achievement. 

“I am so fortunate to work with a fantastic team,” she said. “Any recognition that comes my way is really a reflection of a team effort that I am part of.” 

Watson said she is especially proud to work for a company that prioritizes employee well-being, pointing to H&P’s ongoing support for employees and their families during the conflict in the Middle East. 

Her path to becoming an intelligence analyst was shaped by hands-on operational experience in both the U.S. Navy and the energy industry. Watson served aboard Navy ships, learning engineering, weapons systems and navigation, before transitioning to the energy sector through Shell’s Supervisor in Training program, where she began her career on the rig. 

“Each time it felt daunting,” she said. “But I had great mentors who took the time to really teach me how things worked. Understanding how operations work has made me a better intelligence analyst.” 

Among those mentors, Watson credits Mark Nagle, a former Shell drilling superintendent, for helping her see long-term potential in the industry. At H&P, she expressed gratitude to her manager, Rob Ream, for his guidance and support, as well as to colleagues in the Houston office “for always keeping it fun.” 

The Humble Heroine award recognizes employees who consistently support their teams without seeking recognition. Watson’s nomination highlighted her inclusive approach to collaboration, particularly her efforts to accommodate colleagues working across multiple time zones. 

“That’s not above and beyond,” Watson said. “It’s just trying to be inclusive.” 

Guided by a service-oriented mindset, Watson defines strong teamwork as a shared understanding of the mission and how each role contributes to it. Looking ahead, she said she is excited to support H&P’s continued global expansion. 

For the next generation of women entering the industry, her advice is simple: “Stay curious and never stop learning.” 

Outside of work, Watson enjoys reading, running and traveling, as well as spending time with her partner, George, and their beagle, Murphy. She is also a self-proclaimed crossword puzzle aficionado — a fitting hobby for someone who describes herself in three words as “seeking to understand.”

Chelsey Robinson honored with Woman of H&P Award for Lifelong Learning 

Chelsey Robinson, a contracts coordinator II based in Tulsa, has been named a Woman of H&P Award winner in the Lifelong Learner category, recognizing her dedication to continuous growth, adaptability and team-driven excellence during her 13-year career at H&P. 

Robinson supports the contracts team alongside LaRae Levy, April Rodrigues, Storri Wild, Allison Astor, Tiffany Haddock and Aditya Pilgaokar. In her role, she drafts, formats, reviews and organizes contracts, amendments and related documents while ensuring each aligns with company policies and legal standards. 

“Being acknowledged is incredibly motivating, and it inspires me to continue striving for excellence,” Robinson said. “It’s meaningful to know the work I do adds value.” 

Robinson’s path at H&P reflects the spirit of the Lifelong Learner award. After spending 10 years in one department, she made the decision to step into a new role within the company — a challenge that required confidence, adaptability and a willingness to learn. 

“Stepping outside my comfort zone was difficult, but it pushed me to grow both professionally and personally,” she said. “It turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made.” 

That growth mindset continues to define her work today. Robinson said she actively seeks opportunities to strengthen her skills, most recently focusing on the “letter side” of contracts — reviewing and understanding contract language, analyzing prior correspondence and ensuring accuracy across documentation that directly impacts day-to-day operations. 

“There is always something new to learn in the contracts world,” she said. “I genuinely appreciate feedback from leaders and coworkers and view it as guidance rather than criticism.” 

Her approach to learning extends beyond the workplace. As a mother of three boys heavily involved in sports, Robinson said organization and balance are essential — and humor helps, too. 

“Staying organized is less of a skill and more of a survival tactic,” she said with a laugh. “I also try to keep up with today’s slang so I can maintain my status as the ‘cool mom.’” 

Robinson credits her values — integrity, respect, accountability and teamwork — as the foundation of her success. She strives to bring a positive attitude to work each day, remain open to learning and support her teammates. 

“The people around me make a huge difference,” she said. “We genuinely feel like family.” 

She offered special thanks to the entire Contracts team, along with several colleagues across the organization who have supported her growth. She also gave a heartfelt shoutout to Kate Foltz, whom she described as “the best friend and best co-worker anyone could ask for.” 

Outside of H&P, Robinson enjoys spending time with her husband and cheering on her sons at baseball and football games. She describes herself as loyal, organized and positive — traits that clearly resonate in her professional journey. 

Looking ahead, Robinson hopes to continue growing within the Contracts department while learning alongside the team she’s proud to be part of. 

For the next generation of women entering the industry, her advice is simple: “Step out of your comfort zone and give yourself permission to grow. If you’re struggling, don’t hold it in. Being open and vulnerable builds strength, confidence and stronger connections.” 

True to the Lifelong Learner title, Robinson views growth as an ongoing journey — one fueled by dedication, feedback and a genuine curiosity to keep getting better.

AL Anood Ahmed Al Aisri named Woman of H&P Award winner in Leading Lady category 

AL Anood Ahmed Al Aisri, a technical assistant with the HSSEQT team in Muscat, has been named a Woman of H&P Award winner in the Leading Lady category, recognizing her steady leadership, commitment to safety and positive influence across H&P during more than 12 years of service. 

Al Aisri has worked at H&P for 12 years and five months and currently serves as an HSE technical assistant and IVMS/DFMS focal point. In her role, she supports the HSE team by maintaining accurate safety data and reports, assisting with audits and compliance records, and monitoring driver behavior to identify trends that improve road safety. 

“I simply do my best to contribute to stronger safety performance through accurate information, steady monitoring and clear communication,” Al Aisri said. 

Receiving the Leading Lady award, she said, is both meaningful and motivating. 

“This award means a lot to me,” she said. “It reminds me that my efforts to support safety performance are valued, and it motivates me to keep improving and contributing to the team.” 

Al Aisri’s career at H&P reflects persistence, adaptability and a willingness to embrace change. She has successfully transitioned through several roles, including positions in marketing and sales, construction HSE and as an LSF secretary, before stepping into her current role. Each move required new skills and rapid learning. 

“Each step was challenging, but I overcame it by staying committed to learning, seeking guidance and embracing every opportunity to grow,” she said. 

Her proudest professional moments, Al Aisri said, are not tied to a single event, but to seeing consistent improvements in IVMS and DFMS reporting and the resulting positive impact on road safety performance. 

“The gradual improvement and appreciation from the team made me feel proud and grateful to contribute to H&P’s safety goals,” she said. 

As a leader, Al Aisri says her approach is rooted in humility, consistency and teamwork. She believes strong leadership begins with listening and supporting others. 

“I try to lead by example, stay supportive and focus on clear communication,” she said. “Supporting others consistently matters more than having all the answers.” 

Those values are reflected in the principles that guide her work daily: accuracy, accountability and teamwork. 

“I believe in doing my work with integrity, supporting others when needed and always aiming to improve safety and overall performance,” she said. 

Al Aisri credits her growth to the people around her, particularly her manager and colleagues. 

“Their support, guidance and encouragement have helped me grow and gain confidence at every step,” she said. “I’m truly grateful for everything they have taught me and for always believing in me.” 

Being recognized as a woman in a leadership role within the industry carries special meaning for Al Aisri. She said it demonstrates how dedication and trust can open doors for women across H&P. 

“It shows that dedication can make a difference,” she said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute, represent other women and support a more inclusive and safer workplace.” 

Looking ahead, Al Aisri hopes to continue building her skills within HSE, taking on additional responsibilities and contributing to even stronger safety performance. 

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, relaxing and camping whenever possible. She describes herself as strong, confident and caring — traits that have helped define her leadership style and professional journey. 

To the next generation of women entering the industry, Al Aisri offers this advice: “Believe in yourself, stay patient and don’t be afraid to learn new things. Every small step matters, and your voice adds value.” 

Fatina Al Balushi named Woman of H&P Award winner in Rising Rookie category 

Fatina Al Balushi, a QA/QC assistant with the HSSEQ team in Oman, has been named a Woman of H&P Award winner in the Rising Rookie category, recognizing her strong early-career contributions, commitment to quality and continuous growth during her first three years at H&P. 

In her role, Al Balushi supports the quality function by helping ensure compliance with internal processes, documentation standards and customer requirements. She plays a key role in preparing for API and ISO audits by gathering evidence, organizing documentation and verifying that both suppliers and internal operations conform to required standards. 

“My work focuses on accuracy, consistency and continuous improvement,” Al Balushi said. “The goal is always to help maintain a strong quality culture within the organization.” 

Receiving the Rising Rookie award, she said, is both meaningful and motivating. 

“It’s very encouraging to know that my work is recognized and appreciated,” she said. “This acknowledgment motivates me to continue learning, improving and giving my best each day.” 

Al Balushi said her proudest professional moments have come from watching her own growth since joining H&P. From improving documentation accuracy to supporting audits and identifying potential issues before they escalate, she said each milestone reinforces her confidence and dedication to quality. 

“Seeing how much I’ve grown and how my work contributes to quality improvements makes me proud,” she said. 

Starting her career in QA/QC came with challenges, particularly learning complex systems, documentation requirements and audit standards such as API and ISO with limited prior experience. She credits perseverance, curiosity and strong team support for helping her overcome those early hurdles. 

“I overcame these challenges by asking questions, seeking guidance and continuously improving my technical skills,” she said. “With time, practice and support from the team, I became more confident and capable.” 

Al Balushi recognizes QA/QC Coordinator Nasser Al Sharii as a key influence on her professional development. 

“Since my first day at H&P, his guidance, support and trust have played a major role in shaping my growth,” she said. “He encouraged me to take on new challenges, build my skills and develop confidence in my work.” 

Integrity, responsibility and continuous improvement guide Al Balushi’s work every day. She said she strives to approach each task with honesty, accuracy and a mindset focused on getting better. 

Drawn to H&P by its critical role in safe and reliable operations, Al Balushi said she has been surprised by how quickly she gained responsibility and hands-on experience early in her career. 

“I’ve learned that attention to detail, teamwork and adaptability are just as important as technical knowledge,” she said. 

Looking ahead, Al Balushi hopes to continue developing her QA/QC expertise, expand her understanding of industry standards and take on greater responsibility while contributing to long-term improvement efforts. 

Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, camping and spending quality time with family and close friends. She describes herself as friendly, confident and creative. 

Al Balushi expressed appreciation for the support she has received at H&P, offering thanks to her manager and HSSEQ team for their guidance and encouragement. 

For women entering the industry, her advice is straightforward: “Be confident, stay curious and don’t hesitate to speak up and learn.” 

As a Rising Rookie, Al Balushi’s dedication, growth mindset and commitment to quality signal a promising future and a lasting impact at H&P.