Rita Esuru Okoroafor

Assistant Professor Texas A&M University

Rita Esuru Okoroafor, SPE, is an assistant professor at Texas A&M University, specializing in the application of oil and gas skills and techniques to address challenges associated with low-carbon energy technologies. Okoroafor holds a PhD in energy resources engineering from Stanford University. Prior to pursuing her doctorate, she was a principal reservoir engineer at SLB for 13 years. Her research encompasses geothermal reservoir engineering, carbon dioxide storage and utilization, geologic storage of hydrogen, and reservoir geomechanics. She is an SPE 2023–2024 Distinguished Lecturer.

Career development

Transferable Skills: Petroleum Engineering and Geoscience Skills Are Shaping the Low-Emission Energy Transition

Many skills learned in technical and leadership career paths in the oil and gas industry are transferable to careers in other industries, including those focused on low-emissions technologies.

July 14, 2022 • Rita Esuru Okoroafor • The Way Ahead
Career development

How Petroleum Industry Young Professionals Can Survive the Oil Price Volatility

Young professionals can use downturns as an opportunity for long-term career growth.

May 11, 2015 • Islin Munisteri • The Way Ahead
Career development

Navigating the Oil and Gas Industry: Soft Skills Needed Along the Way

Technical skills aren't sufficient for success. Professionals also need to acquire the soft skills that will facilitate their growth within the industry.

January 8, 2015 • Islin Munisteri • The Way Ahead
Career development

Soft Skills Workshop: SPE Lagos Section 61

The future of the E&P industry rests on the shoulders of current YPs who, in a few years, will be stepping up to the challenge of handling leadership and technical positions. One way to develop YPs is to supplement their technical knowledge with so-called “soft” skills. With this in mind, SPE Lagos Section 61 organized a Soft Skills workshop focused on improving YPs’ …

September 16, 2013 • Rita Esuru Okoroafor • The Way Ahead
Business

Public Energy Education

Results of a survey on energy education's importance, opportunities, and audience.

January 13, 2010 • Rita Esuru Okoroafor • The Way Ahead
Career development

Technical vs. Managerial Careers: What Experienced Professionals Say

In prior surveys, young professionals expressed a preference for managerial careers. So we surveyed experienced professional to get their feedback on the differences and making the right choice.

May 2, 2009 • Rita Esuru Okoroafor • The Way Ahead
Business

Oil Price Assessment: Survey Results

Results of a survey of young processions about the driving forces behind oil prices, how to adapt to uncertain prices, and the outlook for oil.

January 14, 2009 • Herve Gross • The Way Ahead