Engineers in the oil industry are the backbone of progress and economic growth. From exploration and production on land and at sea to operations, refining, distribution of petroleum products, and the creation of value-added petrochemical products, every achievement reflects the integration of expertise, experience and continuous effort. Through innovation and systematic thinking, they help unlock economic growth and maximize the value of national resources.

Beyond technical expertise, oil industry engineers confront demanding operational conditions — from offshore platforms to deserts and remote regions — demonstrating the ability to solve urgent problems and deliver innovative solutions. Their presence at the heart of operations underpins the stability and advancement of the oil and gas sector.

Marking the arrival of the fifth of Esfand (Engineer’s Day), SHANA) spoke with engineers now serving as managers and decision-makers across the industry, sharing their experiences, perspectives and professional challenges.

Hamid Bovard, CEO, National Iranian Oil Co.:

Engineering requires more than an academic degree; it demands a creative mindset, systematic thinking and managerial foresight. As the engine of the national economy, the oil industry provides a platform where engineers from mechanical, petroleum, chemical, electrical and related disciplines play vital roles as designers and key agents of the organization. Oil and gas production is the outcome of rigorous engineering studies, technical calculations and sustained scientific work in a field where engineering remains dynamic. Engineers are expected to blend up-to-date knowledge with experience to deliver fresh ideas and creative solutions.

The working conditions of operational staff in the oil industry are unlike many other sectors. The survival of this vast industry depends on engineers, technicians and workers in operational areas. A 25-year presence in these regions — from wellsites to project execution — underscores that the industry cannot endure without their efforts. Integrating modern science with valuable experience will open new paths for economic growth and sectoral excellence.

Saeid Tavakoli, CEO, National Iranian Gas Co.:

An engineer is someone whose thinking is structured and logical. By defining problems correctly, designing appropriate strategies and offering targeted solutions, engineers resolve complex challenges. The engineer’s role in the oil industry cannot be seen as simple or superficial. A review of the progress made — and the maturity developed alongside it — makes that clear. Engineers extract realities from ideas and transform threats into opportunities.

Despite challenges, sanctions and constraints, Iran stands as the world’s third-largest gas producer. This achievement is no accident; it is the result of engineering thinking that recognizes limitations and designs solutions within them. Engineers serve in both headquarters and operational roles, often making real-time decisions. Collectively, these efforts have kept the oil and gas industry performing strongly.

Hassan Abbaszadeh, CEO, National Petrochemical Co.:

Engineering is the science of using tools effectively. The petrochemical industry is a prime arena for engineering excellence, where extreme temperature variations and changes in the state of matter are routine. Few industries witness transitions from gas to solid within complex processes under high pressure, alongside temperature ranges from minus 110 to plus 800 degrees Celsius in olefin furnaces.

Such achievements reflect the skill and dedication of engineers. Under current conditions and sanctions, engineers play an even more prominent role, relying on domestic capabilities and innovation to sustain production. Iranian engineers have ensured that the petrochemical industry has not faced interruptions.

Omid Shakari, Deputy Oil Minister for Engineering, Research and Technology:

Engineering in the oil industry is interdisciplinary and extends beyond academic knowledge. Engineers must be equipped not only with technical expertise but also with legal, financial, project management and regulatory knowledge. A key component is a holistic perspective — attention to detail combined with a broad, strategic outlook and effective engagement with stakeholders, including manufacturers, contractors and consultants.

The oil industry’s operational environments — offshore platforms, islands, deserts and harsh climates — are inherently challenging. Engineers bridge technical and nontechnical domains, fully aware of the hardships, risks and time away from family that define the profession.

Touraj Dehqani, CEO, Pars Oil and Gas Co.:

Engineering is a constructive and forward-looking profession central to development. Pars Oil and Gas Co. is fundamentally an engineering organization, with its core activities shaped by engineering vision. The company’s achievements, culminating in daily production of about 730 million cubic meters of gas, are the result of engineers’ expertise and effort, supported by other organizational pillars. A significant portion of the national economy depends on this output.

Akbar Imani, CEO, Central Iranian Oil Fields Co.:

Engineering is not merely a credential or job title but a way of thinking that moves from “what is” to “what should be.” Given the complexity of the oil industry’s value chain — from exploration and production to refining and distribution — engineers hold a decisive role. The more specialized and well-equipped engineers are, the greater the value the industry can generate for the nation.

Ahmadreza Rasti, CEO, Iranian Offshore Oil Co.:

Engineers working on offshore platforms operate under unique maritime conditions. Through specialized expertise and effective solutions, they have successfully managed and resolved operational challenges. Their responsible and professional efforts contribute significantly to production targets, operational stability and broader corporate objectives.