Jane Onu

What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

Leading others is about service, not authority. I have learned that creating clarity, supporting people, and empowering them to succeed leads to stronger teams and lasting impact.

What do you consider to be your most important career achievement or milestone?

Developing my Aba IPP pipeline integrity project using data analytics to diagnose risks and improve system reliability has been my key milestone. It proved my ability to apply engineering and data science to solve real infrastructure challenges.

What do you aspire to accomplish in your career and why? What obstacles will you overcome?

I aim to become a leader in data-driven energy innovation. I expect challenges as a woman of color in STEM, but I will overcome them through resilience, continuous learning, and strong mentorship.

Describe an amazing opportunity in your STEM career.

Competing in the SPE–Fervo Machine Learning Challenge and placing 2nd worldwide was extraordinary. It allowed me to blend data science and geothermal engineering on real industry data.

How was AWIS helped you professionally and/or personally?

AWIS has given me community, mentorship, and confidence. It has expanded my network, connected me to supportive women in STEM, and strengthened my growth professionally and personally.

What is your favorite word? (only one word)

Resilience.

How do you define it?

Resilience means rising after challenges, staying steady, adapting, and continuing forward with purpose, no matter the pressure.

How has this word influenced or inspired your career?

Resilience has kept me moving through challenges and uncertainty. It pushes me to learn, adapt, and rise stronger, especially in demanding STEM spaces where persistence shapes long-term success.

How does AWIS impact your career journey?

AWIS gives me community, mentorship, and visibility. It connects me to women leading in STEM and strengthens my confidence to pursue ambitious goals while building a supportive professional network.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

I am reading The Power of Showing Up, and listening to career-focused podcasts on leadership, STEM innovation, and personal growth.

What do you consider the best professional or personal advice you’ve ever received?

Don’t shrink yourself. Take space, ask questions, and show up boldly. Your voice is needed.

Jane Ugochi Onu is a dual master’s student in Petroleum Engineering and Data Science with experience in pipeline integrity, geothermal energy, and subsurface engineering. Her research applies machine learning to improve hydraulic fracturing performance. She is passionate about data-driven innovation, active in student leadership, and committed to advancing sustainable energy solutions.