Julie Ferland of Shell TechWorks by a whiteboard

10 Reasons My Job Can Help Change the World

Julie Ferland, General Manager of Shell TechWorks, chose Shell because the company’s purpose aligned with her own: a desire to make a positive impact in the world.

Swipe through each image below to read 10 reasons Julie finds purpose in her work at Shell.

Reason number one – making a meaningful difference. Julie Ferland in front of a Shell TechWorks sign.

I never saw myself working in the energy industry, but I can tell you now, this has been one of the most incredible opportunities I’ve had to make a meaningful difference in the world. I realised I just needed to do the thing I was passionate about, which was to make a positive impact through the work I do.

Reason number two – continuous learning. Julie Ferland working with a Shell TechWorks team member.

I have the opportunity to continuously learn something new, working across a spectrum of industries and solving a variety of business challenges within those fields. Our leadership team also takes a coaching approach, rather than a hierarchical one, when it comes to training and development, which encourages the team to take their career growth into their own hands.

Reason number three – values that align with your own. Julie Ferland writing on a whiteboard.

Because the company has such a forward-thinking mindset, at the forefront of the energy transition, I feel empowered to be just as innovative and purpose-driven in my approach to sustainable energy solutions. As a result, Shell not only aligns with my career values but also inspires me on a daily basis.

Reason number four – exciting projects. Shell TechWorks team and Julie Ferland in a brainstorming activity.

We’re currently working on several projects to deliver cleaner energy, with a large focus in the area of hydrogen - figuring out what we need to do economically to make fuel-cell electric vehicles more accessible and available.

Reason number five – measurable impact. Julie Ferland and Shell TechWorks team taking a walk outdoors.

I love that in my daily life I can see the impact of the projects we work on and problems we solve - when I’m driving up to the gas pump, or looking at the wind turbines down the street, I’m able to see how it all comes together to provide energy for a global population.

Reason number six – moving beyond ideas to action. Julie Ferland and team member at Shell TechWorks.

We’re working to solve real challenges in measurable ways. We’re not just experimenting for the sake of it but, through systems engineering, we’re able to actually evaluate the impact we’re making on the future of sustainable energy.

Reason number seven – an inclusive and collaborative culture. Julie Ferland and Shell TechWorks team hanging out outside.

We encourage our team to be open to failure, to always seek feedback, and to be bold in taking a different approach to problem-solving. Our team includes individuals who are motivated by the meaningful impact their work and contributions here can have.

Reason number eight – we’re empowered to be agile. Julie Ferland instructing Shell TechWorks team members.

Working across all areas of Shell we’ve really been able to witness the company’s approach to change. Our work on new projects and technology being implemented and tested for the energy transition has showcased the flexible nature of the company first-hand.

Reason number nine – everyone is behind one goal. Julie Ferland and Shell TechWorks team members enjoying a conversation outdoors.

There’s constant buzz in our office because we really try to foster a meaningful culture of conversation and collaboration. We learn from each other every day in that environment, and I think that’s a vital component when we’re working on projects together.