In celebration of International Day of Women and Girls in Science and International Women’s Day, AAPG and MicroSeismic are showcasing interviews from successful women leaders in geoscience.
Asya al Rawahi is a senior geologist for the gas and RMT team within Occidental Petroleum in Oman. She began her career as a development geologist at Petroleum Development Oman, before accepting a post as a geologist at Occidental Petroleum, Oman in 2005. She has since worked her way through the ranks, serving in roles including team manager for the South RMT and Kahmah Team and senior geologist for the RC Team.
Al Rawahi received her bachelor’s in science from Oxford Brookes University in the United Kingdom. Here is what she had toy about her time working in geoscience.
Describe the journey that led you to become a geoscientist.
“Geology was never taught in our schools, so my journey into geoscience started with a simple yet profound curiosity—why does Oman have so many mountains and wadis? That curiosity led me to pursue geoscience, where I discovered the fascinating processes that have shaped our landscapes for millions of years.”
What is the best advice you have received from a mentor?
“‘Be authentic, own your actions, and say what you truly believe.’ This advice has guided me throughout my career. It has helped me build confidence in my decisions, communicate with clarity, and stay true to my values.”
What is your favorite thing about your job?
“What I love most about my job is adding value—not just to my company, but to my beloved country Oman as well. Early in my career, I was fulfilled by drilling highly productive wells, which contributed directly to energy production. Now, my focus has shifted to developing young geoscientists, mentoring them, and preparing them to take over the industry. Seeing the next generation grow and succeed is incredibly rewarding.”
What has you most excited about working in the field of geoscience right now?
“For me, the excitement within geoscience lies in seeing the outcrops, enjoying the breathtaking scenery, and finding clues that help us reconstruct ancient environments. Every rock tells a story, and being able to decode those stories is like being a detective of Earth’s history. It’s a constant adventure of discovery and learning.”
What has been the most memorable project you have worked on and why?
“One of the most memorable projects that I’ve worked on recently is unlocking the potential of tight and unconventional reservoirs in Oman. It has been both challenging and rewarding, because it requires innovative thinking, collaboration, and pushing the boundaries. The impact of this project could reshape the way we approach reservoir development in the region.”
What advice would you give to a young girl aspiring to become a geoscientist?
“Believe in yourself and dream big. Build your network, form strong alliances, and never be afraid to take up space in this field. Stay curious and always keep learning—because the world needs your ideas and passion.”