Twenty Years in the Industry: A History of a Professional Path

Women in the oil industry are not only highly skilled professionals but also a source of inspiration. Among them is Lira Shengelbayeva, who has worked at Kazakhstan-China Pipeline LLP for nearly two decades. During this time, she has come a long way professionally, becoming part of a team supporting the development of one of the country's strategic international projects. Lira actively participates in industry competitions in table tennis, demonstrating team spirit and passion for the sport.

In the #ladyKCP column, she talks about how destiny led her to the oil industry, about sports, and why true strength always begins with inner values.

How did you get into the oil and gas industry? Was it a conscious choice?

In 2003, while still a student, I was preparing an English-language article for the "National and World News" section, and I distinctly remember being drawn to the news about the planned construction of an oil pipeline in Kazakhstan with Chinese participation. Naturally, as an international affairs specialist, this project was of great interest to me as an interstate one.Several years later, in 2007, when I was choosing a job, I intuitively chose KCP from three companies. At the time, I thought it was a coincidence. But nothing happens by chance. Having worked in the industry for almost 20 years, I understand that this was a life-changing decision. Twenty years represents a huge life period: the vast experience I've gained and the colleagues I've grown with both professionally and personally. I'm glad I started my career at a young but dynamically developing company. I'm happy to be involved in such a significant project, comparable in its strategic importance to the Great Silk Road.

What's the most challenging part of your job? What inspires you?

The most difficult thing is being able to calibrate your actions and decisions, recognizing that no task is unimportant or insignificant, and that ultimately, every detail impacts the outcome. It's also important to be able to see things through to completion, no matter how difficult they may seem at the beginning. And this, in fact, applies to any job.

And the most inspiring thing is the results. When you see that thanks to your seemingly routine actions, the company is growing, gaining momentum, and reaching new levels, you realize that your time and effort were well spent.

Do you think there are stereotypes about women in the oil industry?

I believe women in the oil industry are distinguished by their high level of discipline and inner strength. This is a field that involves 24/7 oil transportation, high production risks, and the country's international image is at stake. This type of work requires and fosters a high level of stress resilience and flexibility.

What quality should a woman have to be successful?

Qualifications and relevant competencies are the foundation. Therefore, first and foremost, it's important to be a competent specialist in your field. Secondly, you need to be involved in your work, strive for knowledge, and constantly learn new things. And finally, as trite as it may sound, it's important to be responsible for the work assigned to you and to fulfill your responsibilities conscientiously. In my worldview, "success is the result of tireless and honest work".

How do you prefer to spend your free time?

I prefer active recreation. In winter, my colleagues and I often set out on various routes in the mountains – this kind of team building not only strengthens the team but is also beneficial for health. We love playing intellectual games and sometimes get together for karaoke. In the summer, I always find time to swim in the outdoor pool. I also enjoy table tennis and represent our company at the KazTransOil Spartakiada tournament.

Is sport a form of relaxation or a discipline for you? And how did your passion for table tennis begin?

Sport helps me refocus, improves my mood, and charges me with positive energy. It teaches me to concentrate, pursue my goals, and still maintain a sense of lightness and joy. I started playing table tennis in 2017. When I first picked up a racket, I was convinced it was a very easy sport that didn't require any special skills. Of course, I was wrong. Gradually, I began to get the hang of it, honing my technique, and becoming more and more passionate about the game. Table tennis has given me not only a passion for the sport but also wonderful friends whose inspiring example sets a high bar for me.

What would you wish to the women of the company on the eve of March 8th?

I'd like to congratulate all my colleagues on the upcoming holiday and wish that this spring holiday becomes a celebration of the soul. May every woman's most cherished dreams come true with the renewal of nature.

What three qualities best describe you?

Love of beauty. Purposefulness. Responsibility.

Favorite quote:

“A country that thinks of one year sows wheat, 

a country that thinks of ten years plants trees, 

a country that thinks of eternity sows the seeds of goodness in the hearts of its children".