Engineer Innocent Urio’s journey exemplifies the power of knowledge, determination, and local expertise.
Beginning his career as a young graduate in Tanzania’s energy sector, he went on to gain valuable experience with one of the world’s leading oilfield service companies.
Today, he serves as the Head of Engineering and Maintenance at Puma Energy, leading critical projects that drive operational excellence and infrastructure development.
In an exclusive chat with Tanzania Petroleum, Innocent shares his experiences, challenges, and advice for aspiring professionals. Here’s what we learned:
- How Did You Get Started in the Oil and Gas Industry?
“My career journey began in early 2012, right after finishing my final university exams at the University of Dar es Salaam, College of Engineering & Technology (CoET). I got an offer from Schlumberger as a Maintenance Engineer after acing a series of exams and interviews at a career fair organized by Schlumberger at the University of Dar es Salaam.”
- What Was the Main Challenge You Faced?
“The toughest part was the first two years, spent mostly in the field on onshore and offshore drilling rigs, working from the forests of West Africa, deserts of North Africa, and deep water ocean in Southern & East Africa. It was a period of intense fieldwork and learning through on-the-job and classroom training. You had to master the skills quickly or risk being dismissed if you didn’t pass all the on-the-job and classroom training.”
- Most Memorable Career Moment?
“In 2015, I was promoted to General Maintenance Engineer after successfully delivering a project presentation in Pointe Noire, Congo Brazzaville. It was a high-stakes, pass-or-fail event in front of the Sub-Sahara Africa Regional Management panel, and I nailed it. This promotion was a critical career milestone and opened the door to taking on managerial roles within the company.”
- How Is the Oil Market Recovery Affecting Your Career?
“The recovering oil prices are opening up new opportunities worldwide. It’s crucial for all industry stakeholders to be ready to seize these opportunities.”
- What Does Local Content Mean to You?
“Local content is about providing employment for locals and using local goods and services. It’s about developing and involving local human capital and businesses in the entire value chain of the oil and gas industry.”
- Advice for Young Aspiring Oil and Gas Professionals?
“Stay informed and know what qualities oil and gas companies are looking for. Build professional networks, like LinkedIn, and keep your CV updated. Visit industry-specific job sites regularly to stay on top of opportunities.”
Innocent Urio’s story represents that when local engineers are equipped with the right knowledge and support, they do more than address local challenges—they lead transformative initiatives and shape the future of industry.
This feature underscores a vital message: when young professionals in Tanzania are informed, inspired, and empowered, they are fully capable of leading in key sectors such as energy.
It also highlights the long-term value of investing in talent development—today’s knowledge investments create tomorrow’s industry leaders.
