Compelling Calgarians: Joanne Desjardins, Engineering mentor and motivator – A rising star in petro industry-Calgary Herald
The future leaders of the global petroleum industry will gather in our city this fall, largely thanks to the work of Joanna Desjardins.
Desjardins is chairwoman of the World Petroleum Council Youth Forum, an international event held every three years that allows rising stars from the industry (most under age 35) to gather and explore the energy situation around the globe.
More than 1,500 people are expected to attend the conference, which has only been held three other times – in Beijing, Paris and Delhi.
“I see so many good things happening in the energy industry, and a lot of that is driven by young professionals in areas that are new and innovative,” said Desjardins. “I believe that if we each spend a little effort helping others find opportunities to be successful, we’ll all see the benefits in our communities, our industries, and in our personal development.”
Desjardins, a 28-year-old reservoir engineer with ConocoPhillips, also led the highly competitive bid team that was able to convince the World Petroleum Council that Calgary should host the 2013 event.
A graduate of the University of Calgary Schulich School of Engineering and MBA program at the Has-kayne School of Business, Desjardins has participated in a range of other professional and volunteer activities, as well.
She’s participated in several of ConocoPhillips’ internal leadership boards and initiatives; co-authored several papers; advised startup entrepreneurs; been a panellist at conferences; and, worked with Women in Science and Engineering.
“She is not only a leader in her professional career; she is also an inspirational motivator in her volunteer activities, motivating young professionals to join the energy industry and also encouraging young women to enter into science and engineering,” noted Leon Prebeau-Menezes, also a member of the 4th WPC Youth Conference bid team member.
For Desjardins, it only seems natural to become involved in a variety of organizations and projects.
“With the projects I’m on, I get to meet so many different accomplished and passionate people, that it’s hard not to be inspired,” she says. “I’ve learned so much from people I wouldn’t otherwise get to know, so I take every opportunity to collaborate with individuals I can learn from.”