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Marine while conducting a helideck inspection at an offshore platform
Daily Express interviewed her on her career path and achievements. 1. DE: Please share on your journey with Shell. My journey began unexpectedly. I was working at Layang-Layang Aerospace (LLA) when I received a call from a recruiter about a potential role at Shell. Initially, I was hesitant, as I hadn't applied. However, her persistence convinced me it was legitimate. Shortly after that initial contact, Shell's talent team reached out, and the hiring process began. In November 2014, just after receiving my Aircraft Maintenance License, I joined Shell Malaysia Upstream Logistics – Aviation Department. While the role wasn't directly related to hands-on aircraft maintenance, it was a point of pride to have earned my license. I later learned Shell was actively seeking a female licensed aircraft engineer or pilot. 2. DE: Please explain on your current role? Currently, I support the Aviation team in managing and guiding Sazma Aviation, our air operator in Sabah. Sazma is a local company new to Shell’s operations. My focus is ensuring their compliance with Shell’s Air Transport requirements. In 2023, I led a cross-learning initiative, bringing Sazma Aviation’s department heads to visit our operations in Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP). While I don't currently manage direct reports, my role requires me be on-point and up to date with aviation requirements as a key support and guidance figure for our business. 3. DE: How do you handle perception that your role is very much male-centric? Initially, it was challenging. Aviation in Malaysia was relatively new in the early 2000s, and few women were involved, especially in line maintenance. My former colleagues were all male and initially very protective of me, concerned about the physical demands and exposure and if I could handle it. However, I assured them I was prepared and eager to learn. Over time, they became very supportive. Early in my career, someone questioned my choice, suggesting women should stay home. I took that as a challenge, determined to prove that gender shouldn't limit anyone’s aspirations. 4. DE: What are the challenges you face in your career, how do you overcome them and what keeps you pushing forward? Shell has been incredibly supportive, minimizing challenges. One memorable experience was being assigned a significant project in Sabah early in my Shell career. I lacked confidence and was nervous during my first presentation, passing it to my supervisor. He handled it professionally and then provided invaluable coaching. He taught me to anticipate challenges, research solutions, and communicate effectively. I am deeply grateful to my manager then for the trust he placed in me. The willingness to allow me to learn through experience, even when mistakes occurred, was instrumental in my professional development. This experience had boosted my confidence. Shell’s commitment to employees’ development, mentoring, upskilling and coaching has been crucial. My motivation comes from sharing air transport safety knowledge and contributing to safer operations in the oil and gas industry. By educating others, we ensure everyone understand the importance of stringent protocols and change their viewpoint of protocols as barriers. 5. DE: You have experience working with the Shell Aircraft team in the Netherlands, where you were involved in assurance roles and conducting audits on Shell’s air transport operators across Europe, the UK, and Nigeria. Please share on this stint and the valuable lessons learned from here. This year-long assignment with Shell Aircraft’s Assurance team was a significant development opportunity. I was the first woman on the team, which was a unique experience. I travelled extensively with Shell Aircraft advisors assessing contractors, and had the extraordinary opportunity to visit Lagos, Nigeria. The high-security environment there was eye-opening. The sight of armed individuals within the airport was initially unsettling, though I understood it was a necessary security measure. Our subsequent journey to our accommodation in Port Harcourt, which was a guarded and gated secure compound, further emphasized this. We were transported there in a bulletproof vehicle; its windows covered and did not venture out of the compound except to go to the airport. The experience was surreal, reminiscent of scenes from films such as Blood Diamonds. My assignment with Shell Aircraft in the Netherlands was smooth. The team was exceptionally supportive, which made the transition seamless. I attribute much of this to maintaining an open mind and adapting quickly to a new environment. It’s often said that Dutch communication is direct, which is true to some extent and may sometimes come across as blunt. However, I understood that this as a cultural difference, not a personal trait. As an Asian, I do understand that our culture tends to be more reserved in communication, so being open to differences, being adaptable and keeping an open mind was key.
Marine in Rotterdam, during her international assignment, on Shell’s corporate aircraft with Ben van Beurden, Shell Group's former CEO
I also learned the importance of asking questions. It’s vital to seek clarity, especially when navigating unfamiliar surroundings and customs. While I encountered no significant interpersonal challenges, the weather did provide some memorable moments. The unpredictable rain and strong winds were quite a change, and I confess to losing a few umbrellas to the elements during my commute.
Marine in a discussion with her team
6. DE: What are one or two of your most memorable moments you have had in your career? My time with Shell Aircraft in the Netherlands, especially the trip to Nigeria, stands out as a memorable and valuable experience. 7. DE: Who is/are your role model(s). Why? Jill Chieng and Siti Sulaiman, both senior leaders in Shell Malaysia. Jill, who was my mentor and will be taking on a project lead role in Shell Malaysia Upstream, embodies success and humility, reminding me that great competency and know-how does not need to come with arrogance and that there is always room for learning. Siti's pioneering roles, both in Malaysia and internationally, including being the first female Sabah Assets head previous years ago and now the first female Country Chair of Shell Malaysia, is truly inspiring. They both demonstrate that women can excel in leadership positions while staying true to themselves and having an enriching personal life. 8. DE: What motivates you in life? Growing up, my parents prioritized education above all else. My late father, a former soldier, would often remind us, “I have no land or riches to give you, but I can give you the tools to succeed.” This message resonated deeply. My parents believed wholeheartedly that education was the key to a better life, and their hard work to provide for our family motivated me. I’m driven to make them proud. 9. DE: What is your biggest achievement which you hold close to heart? Earning my Aircraft Maintenance License. It took two years of intense study, sacrificing my social life and facing numerous exams. The determination to finish what I started, along with the support of my family, colleagues and managers at LLA, made it a truly significant achievement. 10. DE: What are your future plans for your career? After nearly two decades in aviation, I plan to pursue an MBA and possibly a PhD. I'm eager to expand my skills and explore other fields while remaining connected to aviation. I believe in continuous growth and stepping outside my comfort zone. 11. DE: What is your advice to young women who want to venture into the technical field like yourself? If you’re passionate about aviation, or indeed, any technical fields, go for it! In today’s world, gender is no barrier. Believe in yourself and pursue your dreams. Keep your eyes open for allies, mentors and supporters be grateful when you meet them and leverage on their knowledge and guidance to further develop yourself. I think back on my career and see that while I worked hard, there have been many who have inspired and supported me along the way, enabling my growth and learning._when_the_Sarawak_Shell_Berhad_Leadership_Team_visited_the_HAS_International_helibase.jpg)
Marine in a discussion with her team
12. DE: What are your hobbies and interests? I’m an outdoor enthusiast and love traveling, scuba diving, mountain climbing, and hiking. I’m looking forward to resuming these activities soon after taking a little break to raise my 6-year-old son, Karl Aran Nixon. He should soon be able to join my husband, Nixon Aran Abang, and myself on outdoor activities. I’m also a cat lover and have rescued and adopted many cats over the years.
Marine with her husband and son
