Name: Farah Haq
Job Title: Process Engineer
University attended: Strathclyde University
Degree obtained: BSc (Hons) in Chemical Engineering
Age: 25

Farah Haq joined WorleyParsons in October 2001 and now works as a Process Engineer focusing on controlling environmental emissions – whether liquid, solid or gas – on major engineering projects. Farah represented WorleyParsons in the Chemical Industry Association’s Young Ambassador Award – winning the London & East Anglia regional title.

I am very interested in environmental issues and realise that, as a Chemical Engineer, I have an important role to play in protecting the environment. On graduation, I sought an employer with an equally strong environmental commitment – and a proven track record. WorleyParsons met both criteria admirably.

I knew I wanted to work for an oil and gas contractor. As a Glaswegian, I contemplated remaining in Scotland and joining the industry in Aberdeen but the attraction of WorleyParsons and London proved too strong. I was greatly impressed by WorleyParsons during the interview process. I was able to speak freely to a cross-section of employees and discovered a company with a friendly yet dynamic work environment that really cares for its staff.

Rewarding Projects

I am now a Process Engineer working on environmental issues and waste management on major engineering projects throughout the world. During my five years at WorleyParsons I have worked on projects in Austria, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan. A project I particularly enjoyed involved the design of a gas plant in Kazakhstan in 2003. My role on the project encompassed both process engineering and design responsibilities. I also spoke with local officials, business leaders and members of local communities to reassure them that the project would not adversely affect the environment and would in fact result in tangible benefits to the local infrastructure. I made repeated visits to the country. It was both challenging and personally satisfying for me – as a female engineer – to occupy such a key role in this project as perceptions of women in business can still differ in this region from those in the West.

Global Reach

I greatly enjoyed working in the former Soviet Union. It is very rewarding to work closely with local people to show them that oil companies can be genuinely involved with protecting the environment, building the economy and improving lives in some very poor and neglected regions. I honestly believe that our industry can be a force for good – and WorleyParsons is at the forefront of this initiative. The scale of opportunity at WorleyParsons is enormous. As it is a truly global business, I am fortunate in having the opportunity to work on projects all over the world.

Extensive Support

There is tremendous support at WorleyParsons. On joining, you are immediately assigned to a Mentor – a senior colleague who helps guide your career path and training needs. The mentor remains constantly available to you according to your needs – not just for a particular hour of a particular day of the week. The company also provides extensive support for your pursuit of professional qualifications – in my case, achieving Chartered status with the Institute of Chemical Engineers. Monthly ‘graduate meetings’ across the company’s four West London offices enable us to network and gain insight across the disciplines. Expert external speakers also keep us updated regarding the latest discoveries and developments within our industry.

Opportunity and Achievement

There is an excellent atmosphere within WorleyParsons and the staff is very well integrated. I socialise regularly not only with immediate team members but with colleagues throughout the business. I am now focusing on achieving Chartered status and then plan to remain working on environmental issues for WorleyParsons at increasing levels of managerial responsibility. My main message to prospective applicants is this: WorleyParsons is a company of opportunity and achievement across every key engineering sector. Whether your primary interest lies in minerals and metals, oil and gas or power generation – this company can help you realise your career ambitions.