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  1. Home
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  4. This is Engineering
  5. Women in engineering
  6. Susan Dio

Susan Dio

Susan Dio, chairman and president of BP America and former chief executive of BP Shipping, has been included in an inaugural list of 50 Top Women in Engineering 
 
 
Susan Dio, chairman and president of BP America

Susan Dio,  chairman and president of BP America Inc, is a chemical engineering graduate from the University of Mississippi, a registered professional engineer and a former certified welding inspector.

 

Susan was included in an inaugural list of 50 Top Women in Engineering. The list was published in a supplement in the Telegraph, was released to commemorate National Women in Engineering Day.

 

In March 2015 Susan was honoured by the Manufacturing Institute as a recipient in their third annual Women in Manufacturing STEP (Science, Technology, Engineering and Production) Awards. The programme recognises women in the manufacturing sector who demonstrate leadership and excellence in their careers.

 

You have been with BP for more than 30 years, how would you describe your career?

I would sum it up as being one of manufacturing. Most of my career has been in the Downstream. I love the frontline, leading manufacturing organizations and seeing the results of our work in the products produced. I have worked in petrochemicals as well as refining. I have done project engineering roles, process engineering roles, production management roles and commercial roles. Most recently, I was the business unit leader at Bulwer Island refinery in Australia, followed by a role in Group Audit as head of audit for the Downstream.

 

What have you learned throughout your career that helps with your role as CEO of BP Shipping?

I think understanding and leading organizations that are at the frontline. Not just the technical side, but the human and emotional side of what it takes to be on the frontline every day, safely managing hydrocarbons, and ensuring the safety of everyone involved. In BP Shipping, the majority of our staff are seafarers. They’re highly dispersed. They are out there every single day, moving hydrocarbons from point A to point B and doing it safely. So, aligning people and getting clear messages out is a big challenge in this role.

 

Why would you encourage young people to consider a career in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)?

I would say that my engineering background has opened a lot of doors for me. I believe STEM careers are fulfilling, and that there is a lot of room to grow. They are also diverse, whether it is the latest technology research, managing big projects, supporting operations, or in process safety, there is a lot to do.