Terry Penney

About me

I was born/grew up in: I was born and raised in North Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada

I now live in: Long Island, Nova Scotia, Canada

I completed my training/education at: I attended University College of Cape Breton and graduated with my Chemical Technology degree. I also completed a Gas Plant Operator Course through Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT).

What I do at work

I start my day by getting an update from the night shift leads to see if they require my support with anything. This is important so I am aware of any issues that may have occurred overnight. Then I use my computer to complete a report that is shared with our onshore team, leadership and shared with our regulator. 

I usually attend several meetings throughout the day where we (the team) discuss anything from upcoming projects to how many people will be on the platform in the upcoming weeks. During regular operations, the team can also gather to discuss issues that are occurring in the process and work together to troubleshoot and help determine a repair plan.

My career path is

My career path is a product of hard work, never giving up and being willing to be flexible and patient. This is my third job and I’ve heard it said that it usually takes at least three careers to find what you are looking for. After I graduated from the University College of Cape Breton, I started out as a laboratory technician with a company that provided a variety of services to the petroleum, chemical and marine transportation industries. After working there for five years, I moved to another position with another company that serviced the offshore oil industry. After this, I started working for ExxonMobil. Over the years, I’ve worked in different positions and have developed a broader understanding of the offshore oil industry. These experiences have provided me with opportunity to take on roles with more responsibility and challenge, leading up to where I am today.

I am motivated by

My family motivates me in my career. I work to support my family and provide them with things I couldn't have growing up. I really enjoy rotation work. I have the opportunity to have two families; a work family and my own family.

How I affect people’s lives

Currently the royalties from the Hibernia project is a major contributor to the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador. As such it makes a person feel good about the impact you can have on the entire province.

Outside of work I

I like to ride my ATV, work with my hands in my garage (fixing cars and equipment) play with my tractor and I like to help others.

My advice to others

You can do anything when you put your heart and mind to it. Set goals, start small and continue to build upon them.