Breaking into the energy sector and progressing to leadership roles isn’t always a straight path. Many professionals take unexpected turns, discover new passions, and develop skills they never anticipated needing.

In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I speak with Myrtle Dawes, CEO of the Net Zero Technology Centre. Myrtle started her career in oil & gas, worked offshore, led major projects, and later transitioned into leadership roles focused on decarbonization and technology innovation. She shares practical lessons on career growth, navigating leadership, and the realities of the net zero transition.

Whether you’re an engineer, a graduate, or an experienced professional considering your next move, this conversation offers clear steps on career progression, learning to adapt, and what it really takes to lead in the energy industry.

Key Takeaways

✅ Take career risks—you don’t need to have everything planned out

🔄 Myrtle didn’t set out to work offshore, move into safety, or become a CEO. Each opportunity came from being open to new challenges, even when they weren’t part of a long-term plan. Flexibility matters.

✅ Leadership is not the same as management

🏗️ Moving up the ladder means thinking long-term. Managers focus on daily execution, but leaders must plan years ahead. If you want to reach executive level, you’ll need to step back from the details and focus on strategy, influence, and decision-making.

✅ The energy transition needs problem-solvers, not just engineers

🌍 The shift to net zero isn’t just about technology—it’s about policy, economics, and global cooperation. If you want to work in renewables or decarbonization, look beyond technical skills and focus on adaptability, critical thinking, and learning to learn.

🎧 Tune in for a candid discussion on career moves, leadership, and the realities of net zero.