In Guyana’s oil and gas industry, stories of local leadership are powerful markers of progress. Among them, Norman Chapman’s journey stands out as a testament to resilience, discipline, and opportunity.
Norman’s path to leadership in Guyana’s oil and gas sector began far from the offshore rigs where he now works. Years spent repairing hydraulic equipment deep in the country’s interior taught him how to solve problems under pressure and work efficiently in demanding conditions. Those lessons, combined with a background in customer service, helped him develop the communication and teamwork skills that would later define his approach to leadership.
“My journey into the oil and gas industry was shaped by a blend of technical experience, customer service skills, and a passion for handson work,” he said. In 2018, he joined Expro Guyana, then known as Frank’s International, as one of the company’s first five Guyanese employees. Starting as a Workshop Technician, he immersed himself in the preparation and maintenance of critical equipment, a role that helped him build a strong foundation in safety and operational discipline.
“That role gave me a solid foundation in equipment preparation and maintenance, and it deepened my understanding of safety and operational excellence,” he explained. Over time, his reliability and commitment opened the door to new opportunities. Norman steadily advanced through the ranks to become Field Service Supervisor, the first Guyanese to hold a leadership position within the company.
Leadership, he admitted, was not initially part of his plan. “After joining the company and gaining a deeper understanding of its organizational structure, it quickly became clear to me that I wanted to be part of its leadership journey,” he said. “I embraced every opportunity to learn, lead, and support others, knowing that leadership isn’t just about titles; it’s about accountability and setting the tone for excellence.”
A pivotal influence on Norman’s career was his former Workshop Supervisor, Fahiym, whose mentorship helped shape both his technical skill and professional mindset. “He mentored me during my first few years with the company, and while he was tough, his approach was meticulous and intentional,” he recalled. “He pushed us to succeed not just by teaching the tools, but by instilling discipline, precision, and a deep respect for the work.”
Norman spent a year training under him at Expro’s Trinidad base before returning home to help establish the company’s local operations. That experience proved instrumental. “Fahiym believed in me, and I owe a lot of my success to his guidance,” he said.
The offshore environment has also tested Norman’s endurance. “Being away from my family for long periods has definitely been one of the most difficult parts of my career,” he said. “But I’ve always reminded myself why I’m doing this, for them.” Despite the challenges, he remains grounded by purpose and family support.
“As a Guyanese professional in a global company, it’s an incredible feeling to be part of a team that’s helping shape the future of our country’s oil and gas industry,” he said. “Being part of this journey means more than just doing a job; it’s about representing Guyana on a global stage, showing that we have the talent, resilience, and drive to lead in this industry.”
Reflecting on his growth, Norman sees his work as both a personal and professional transformation. “Professionally, it has given me the opportunity to grow from a Workshop Technician to a Field Service Supervisor,” he said. “Personally, it’s taught me discipline, resilience, and the importance of purpose.”
As the nation continues to expand its offshore operations, professionals like Norman are proving that Guyana is not only rich in resources but also in the human capital needed to sustain long-term growth. “This journey has shaped not just my career, but my character,” Norman asserted. “It’s made me more focused, more grateful, and more determined to keep growing and giving back.”
