A deep set of values many of us at SLB share

Published: 07/07/2026
Featured:
Gavin Dillingham - Executive Advisor, Federal Affairs - Decarbonization Solutions
United States

This year marks a unique moment for our organization, and it’s caused me to reflect on my own professional path over the last twenty years. How did I arrive to contribute to such a pivotal occasion? What brought me here?

I may not have been around quite as long as some of my peers, but I do think my somewhat unconventional path exemplifies what makes SLB such an impactful brand in this industry (and the world).

It’s our values.

As I’ve navigated the twists and turns of public policy work in the energy industry, I’ve stayed true to a deep set of values that I believe many of us share—defined by a commitment to service, analytical rigor, and environmental stewardship.

“I’ve stayed true to a set of values I believe many of us share—a commitment to service, analytical rigor, and environmental stewardship.”
– Gavin Dillingham

One such twist came in the aftermath of the Enron bankruptcy, when I made what many deemed an unusual move: pursuing a PhD in Political Science at Rice University. But it’s that experience that provided the deep analytical and ethical foundation that now sustains my policy work.

Before joining SLB, I led interdisciplinary teams at the Houston Advanced Research Center, focusing on energy risk management, greenhouse gas mitigation, and decarbonization. I led technology‑commercialization initiatives, including the launch of climate‑risk analytics firm Pythias Analytics and securing funding streams to support major U.S. Department of Energy programs, ranging from solar‑plus‑storage deployments in underserved communities to industrial microgrids.

I now navigate the always-evolving landscape of government affairs and policy shaping emerging energy tech. I strengthen strategic relationships at both the federal and state levels, working closely with national laboratories to validate lower-carbon solutions and accelerate technology deployment.

Drawing on my formative years at Rice, I regularly educate legislators about technological advancements and the policy frameworks needed to deploy them. I’m passionate about helping our teams expand access to federal programs, enhance strategic positioning, and accelerate the rollout of low-carbon technologies across North America.

And I’m not the only one. It’s one of SLB’s greatest strengths, I believe, to develop leaders who can elegantly navigate complexity. I’ve encountered countless people with stories similar to mine, each with their own refreshing twist. The common thread is our commitment to creating a better future for people and the planet we all call home.

For what we’ve achieved thus far in this regard—and what I’m sure has yet to come—I say congratulations and here’s to the next 100 years!