Sedimentologist, Halo Exploration Ltd., Calgary

Jenna touring Alberta Premier Jason Kenney through Halo-owned & operated facilities near Fox Creek, Alberta, June 2020.

After completing my B.Sc. (Honours) degree from BU with a silver medal in Geology, I obtained my M.Sc. in Earth and Atmospheric Science from the University of Alberta specializing in sedimentology, ichnology, and stratigraphy. My thesis research helped secure my first job in the oil and gas industry at Athabasca Oil Corporation, where I spent three years working on SAGD oil sands assets. Currently, I live in Calgary and have worked as a technical expert at a private E&P company for the past 8 years. In my present role, I am responsible for all of the geoscience, asset evaluation, development strategy, plus the planning and execution of multimillion-dollar horizontal drilling programs in both conventional and unconventional reservoirs.

Born and raised in Brandon, Manitoba, I entered BU fresh out of high school with no plans. I certainly had no idea as to which career path to take, just the initial thought that a psychology or history major sounded good. In my first year, and with a full course load of art classes, I could most often be found at SUDS.  At that time, I didn’t even know what Geology was but my dad convinced me to take intro, so that at least I could say I tried a science class. Looking back, I am SO glad that I listened! Geology ended up being the only class in my schedule that I enjoyed, and it was historical geology that really got me hooked. Learning about the geological timescale and evolution of life really opened my eyes to a whole new world and ignited my passion for the geosciences.

My time spent at BU was integral in shaping me as a person both in my personal and professional life. The small-size of the department nurtured tight-knit relationships with both peers and professors, which is unique to other institutions. It helped build my confidence and even created opportunities that I never would have been able to pursue elsewhere. I owe it all to the faculty and department for encouraging me to believe in myself and for their leadership, advice, and support.  Without the mentorship that I had, I would have never received the scholarships and awards, summer positions, NSERC funding for my master’s degree, or experience that I obtained through BU. My first summer job with MGS, class field trips, fundraising events, summer work in the NWT and in Utah, attending SIFT, and cramming for exams with friends are some of my fondest memories. I am so lucky to have developed life-long relationships and lasting friendships, many that I still call best friends.

Overall, I am extremely grateful for the experiences I had in the geology department at BU and for the door that was opened to endless opportunities. The saying is true, these really are the best years of your life! In terms of your time at university, my sage advice would be — Attend class and study of course… but go out, meet new people, make friends, drink a few too many, make mistakes! Not everything you learn is in the classroom. These are the moments you will remember and cherish. When it comes to your career, listen to your heart. Pursue your passion and remember that it is never too late to follow your dreams. ❤️