Using data and analytics to identify innovative ways to reduce carbon emissions from within the oil and gas industry.

Inspired to help tackle the problem of climate change and play an active role in the energy transition, Deirdree Polak (25), originally from France, joined TotalEnergies as a graduate data scientist. Since joining, she has been involved in several projects, using data to improve efficiency and reduce carbon emissions from TotalEnergies’ operations.

Growing up, I enjoyed studying maths at school and learning about the world around me. When I went to university, I started thinking about how I could apply my skills to the outside world and became increasingly passionate about working in the energy industry.

At school and university, I was particularly invested in educating myself about the climate crisis. I began reading about the different solutions and technology that could be used to help tackle climate change. I took a keen interest in the energy transition and was inspired to understand how we could meet the energy needs of a growing population. Ultimately, I decided that I wanted to be part of the solution.

After completing my bachelor’s degree in Engineering and Master’s degree in Computer Science, I joined TotalEnergies as a data scientist. In my role, I work with a variety of teams – from drilling, to production to logistics – all of which are using data to show trends and patterns. I love analysing this data to identify ways to improve efficiency and output, for example, by saving fuel. Since joining TotalEnergies, it has been fascinating to see the change happen from within, especially in such a ‘traditional’ industry, which is now embracing new and exciting technologies.

My favourite part of my job is talking to those in the industry, understanding the complexity of their tasks and working with them to identify how data and analytics can be used to help and improve their work. I am particularly impressed to see how the industry is embracing the digital revolution so quickly.

I believe that the oil and gas industry has a vital role to play in the energy transition. The knowledge and expertise from those who have worked in the industry for decades is invaluable – and they are now applying their engineering, management and communication skills to ensure the UK, and the world, is able to deliver on the energy transition. Aberdeen, in particular, continues to have the infrastructure in place to support large-scale projects, including renewable energy.  

The reason I am so positive about the future of the energy industry is because I can see, first-hand, how the industry is changing. Building the infrastructure needed for other forms of cleaner and renewable energy will take time and investment, and I know the oil and gas companies have, and must have, an important role to play in accelerating this transition.

I am currently involved in a project that is tracking the carbon emissions of TotalEnergies’ contracted rigs across the world – a capability that didn’t exist a number of years ago. It is great to see how companies like TotalEnergies are using this data and insight to tackle their own emissions.

For those looking to join the energy industry, I’d say ‘be passionate’. By joining the industry, you can have a lasting, positive impact on the world of tomorrow. Don’t underestimate the role you can play.