Working in Oil & Gas
A Day in the Life...
Krysia, Summer Law Student / Aboriginal Relations
Name: Krysia
Job Title: Summer Student - Law Student
Company: TransCanada Pipelines, Calgary, AB
Department: Community, Safety & Environment & Aboriginal Relations
Education: BA in History, University of Calgary, 2006
LLB, Faculty of Law, UBC – Enrolled in 3rd year
Krysia is your typical 25 year-old, who likes to hang out with family, friends, and also loves a good episode of Sex & the City. Krysia is also a driven over-achiever, who has accomplished much for her young age. Having just missed the 2000 Olympics trials in the swimming category by .003 seconds, the devastating loss did not deter her from achieving her dreams. Currently, Krysia is an eighth-year summer student at TransCanada Pipelines in Calgary, aspiring to become a full-fledged lawyer with the company. As a summer law student in the Aboriginal Relations department, Krysia shuffles between reviewing legal agreements, providing feedback on Aboriginal issues and inspiring other Aboriginal youth about the numerous opportunities available in the oil and gas sector.
A high school assignment studying media led Krysia to her passion for Aboriginal issues. Already working on her second degree in law at the University of British Columbia, Krysia applies this valuable knowledge in the legal negotiation process between TransCanada and oil and gas communities. The combination of legal duties and Aboriginal relations creates what Krysia calls the "best of both worlds."
"When I was 17, the TransCanada recruiters came to my reserve (Carry the Kettle), and my grandmother encouraged me to apply. I made the list as a summer student and the rest is history. TransCanada has really opened up a lot of doors and opportunities I never would have known about. I really feel that oil and gas chose me!"
6:30am -- While most people are still in bed, Krysia already has her cup of tea in-hand and is ready to start the day at TransCanada's downtown office. "I do start early, but I am definitely a morning person! I start my day by checking emails, saying hello to co-workers around the office and checking in with my boss to see what needs to be done for the day."
8:00am -- Krysia frequently refers to her "black book bible"which contains all the items on her to-do list. "I review and note everything that needs to be completed and crossed off, and add new tasks as I go."
9:00am–12:00pm -- Much of Krysia's day involves reviewing important legal agreements, and wearing her legal thinking-cap. "Currently I'm reviewing about 25 legal agreements, which is definitely a lot! The legal agreements are used in the negotiation process between communities and TransCanada, prior to putting pipelines in the ground. For example, if a proposed pipeline crosses a particular facility, railroad, roads, etc. then an agreement must be put in place between the oil company and the other proponent, such as railroad companies if we're crossing rail lines, municipalities, or within the negotiation process between Aboriginal communities. There are many stages involved before the agreement reaches the final stage, so it's definitely a long review process.
My task is to review the document for appropriate legal terms, and ensure the right legal area is represented. Oil and gas is a highly regulated industry, so I watch out for terms that are in compliance with federal regulations. The agreements take up most of my day and are very important in my job. We also don't have an admin assistant, so I will often pick up related duties such as taking notes at meetings, when needed."
12:00–1:00pm -- Krysia enjoys the opportunity to work downtown, and be close to her dad who works nearby. "I usually spend the lunch hour with my dad at Eau Claire. Since we both work downtown, we commute to work together. My parents are my biggest role models and have had the most influence on my life. The more time I get to spend with them, the better!"
Other special projects -- "Every year, I get to be part Aboriginal Awareness Week, where I coordinate a tipi display to build awareness of the culture. I also volunteer at the Calgary Stampede's Indian Village, helping out with a few administrative duties. I was also involved with the CFAR Society, which is a non-profit made-up of Aboriginal liaison professionals. I assisted the founding members with organization and administration, and since my involvement the organization has grown to one hundred members. Another great part of my job is acting as a representative of the company at various career fairs, telling people what I do and the great opportunities available for summer students at TransCanada. Being Aboriginal myself, I really enjoy working with other young girls and educating them about the endless opportunities, such as scholarships and programs available for Aboriginals. I am definitely a strong advocate of that and will do anything I can to encourage Aboriginal youth to stay in school."
4:00pm -- "I end the day around 3:30 – 4:00pm, though I will stay late if necessary. I understand that it's not always a typical 9 to 5 day and I'm more than willing to do what's necessary to climb the ladder."
What I love about my job -- "TransCanada has opened a lot of doors for me. I've developed so much self-esteem and confidence. I can now hold a conversation with senior management and not bat an eye."
If I could change one thing about my job, it would be... -- "Nothing! I have the best job - people want my job!"
Culture at TransCanada -- "It's really like a second family here. The team has seen me grow up. Lots of opportunities!"
What surprised me most about the oil and gas industry -- "There were a lot of men when I first started, and I also heard that it was a man's industry. I met a female executive and I was inspired. People in this industry have been really open towards me. I started as one of the few women, now our Alberta team has an even number of men and women."
My best 'pat-on-the-back' moment at work -- "I was at a Q&A session, where there were a lot of senior execs and management in attendance. I asked a very unique question, which my supervisor took notice of and paid compliments on asking such a great question!"
What inspires me most at work -- "Knowing that I can have it all and that I have access to such great opportunities. I follow the example of my supervisor, and know that I can do the same."
Favourite teacher or mentor, and why -- "My parents. They taught me the most important life lessons. They came from poor families and taught me to put heart in everything I do."
My life's mantra (favourite quote, saying, etc.) -- "I have a coin that I kept from my swimming days to motivate me. It says Believe to succeed."
Additional Resources
To learn more about working in Krysia's field, visit the Specialty Business Services job family.
