SLB’s story began 100 years ago today. I became a small part of this legacy 25 years ago, not long after earning my degree in electrical engineering. I had imagined a very different career path, leaning toward one with an academic environment.

But life took me in a different direction, and my story with SLB began.

A friend encouraged me to apply to what was then Schlumberger. My first assignment was not in a classroom or even an office. I was sent to a field location in my home country, Egypt, and was told to start washing trucks. I’m not sure if I ever opened my suitcase that was packed only with office clothes.

During my training, one of the leaders told my group, “One of you will probably be doing my job someday.” I remember thinking that I was pretty sure I didn’t want his job and that I probably wouldn’t still be around.

Twenty years later, I had that job. That moment stayed with me. Together, with my first assignment in Egypt, it showed me some of the things that make SLB truly special: We grow our people, promote from within, and create opportunities where we work.

That was just one of many surprises in my career. SLB has taken me to 10 countries across four continents. From the heat of Malaysia to the cold of Siberia, I have worked in field operations, technology, human resources, and now, executive leadership.

In Saudi Arabia, I learned how to lead busy operations in a fast-growing market. In France, I learned more about technology. Norway taught me the importance of finding balance in my work and personal life. Russia taught me how to handle the unfamiliar and grow from it. Without realizing, all of this helped prepare me to lead the Middle East and North Africa region just as COVID-19 changed everything.

The countries, cultures, and challenges have all been different. But some things are the same everywhere. Customers and colleagues want leaders who listen, solve problems, and care. They expect strong performance, with honesty, trust, and accountability.

As SLB celebrates its centennial, I recognize the same theme in its story that I have seen in my own: We have stayed strong because we kept learning and growing. We bring together local knowledge and global support with a focus on innovation.

I am proud to be part of the story that began 100 years ago. And as I continue my career, I hope to pass this pride on to someone else. Maybe a trainee somewhere who is thinking exactly what I once thought, “I’m pretty sure I don’t want his job.”