Forty Under 40: Lehne George, Chesapeake Energy

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An Atlanta native, Lehne George didn’t consider a career in oil and gas until her application to graduate school attracted the attention of a professor who convinced her to consider organic petrology. At Chesapeake since her graduation, she has worked in a variety of basins and formations. A mom of three, she is happy to share her love of geology, whether it’s at STEM demonstrations at her kids’ schools, or with interns she’s mentored and guided in their careers.

Which of your professional achievements are you most proud of?
“I was very honored to be recognized as one of CERAWeek’s 2023 Future Energy Leaders. I was able to participate in a week-long program focused on developing young leaders. I am also very proud of being asked to join the Chesapeake Diversity Equity and Inclusion Board (DEI). This is my first experience serving on a board and I am enjoying working with this meaningful and impactful group within my company.”

What qualities do you think are necessary to be a good leader in the oil and gas industry?
“I think an important quality for a good leader in the oil and gas industry is someone who, no matter how difficult the situation, displays optimism and a positive attitude. There is power in staying positive and finding the good in every situation. Additionally, I think a good oil and gas leader is someone who can communicate effectively, no matter the subject matter or discipline. Geoscience leaders who interact and communicate effectively with engineering, finance and land team members can create better projects and stronger teams.” 

What or whom do you credit for helping you develop leadership abilities during your career?
“I credit most of my leadership skills development to my experiences working on a multidisciplinary team in a Business Unit. Being a peer leader and bringing together a team of geoscientists, engineers, landmen and more to work towards a common goal was essential to my growth and development. Learning how to effectively communicate, to pitch ideas to a management team, and to solve a difficult technical problem as a team were all valuable skills to hone in my leadership journey.” 

What keeps you motivated and passionate about working in the oil and gas industry?
“As a geoscientist in the oil and gas industry, every day I get to experience the truest form of science in action.  As we drill wells, there is a constant influx of data and therefore a seemingly endless flow of things to be curious about. That’s the motivation and passion of being in this industry to me: there’s always a new project to face, a new challenge to uncover, and new questions to ask. Every day is an opportunity to problem solve, work together as a team, and tackle the next big project.” 

Which transformations do you think the industry must undertake for it to thrive in the future?
“I think fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion is essential to the future of this industry. Solving difficult problems requires an ‘all hands on deck’ approach, so the more we accept differing perspectives and backgrounds, the more likely we are to succeed. Additionally, innovation is important for this industry to survive. I am so encouraged by the exciting new technologies and creative solutions to difficult problems that young professionals in oil and gas are generating.”