OceanPact held another special edition of OceanPact Talks on June 8 to celebrate Brazil’s Oceanographer’s Day, bringing together professionals to share experiences and visions about the future of the profession.
Moderated by Andrea Gallo, an oceanographer and the company’s innovation manager, the meeting presented the Oceanographic Intelligence Network, an OceanPact initiative aimed at promoting synergies, innovation and technical development among its approximately 50 oceanographers.
Anna Maria Scofano, Petrobras’ first female oceanographer, shared her story of vocation and overcoming challenges. In a light-hearted and humorous way, she recounted her career and the issues faced by a woman in this field in the 1980s.
“We did everything. Oceanographers are a bridge between processes, areas and people. We are like a ‘SAP key’ within companies: translators between engineers, managers, scientists and the oceans,” she joked.
Ana Cupelo, sustainability manager at Equinor, stressed how her passion for oceanography guided her professional choice, even though the market was restricted in the 1990s. For her, the environmental area went from being an obligation to a strategic advantage. “The goal before was not to protect the environment, but to generate business. That has since changed. The environmental area has become a competitive advantage among companies,” she said.
Professor Afonso de Moraes Paiva of Rio de Janeiro Federal University, a leading authority in coastal and oceanographic engineering, emphasized the importance of the connection between universities and the job market, and the continuous search for knowledge. “The interface with academia can open doors for those who want to work in the industry. We are always trying to understand the world, and this curiosity brings resources and new possibilities,” he said.
Gustavo Simão Xavier, offshore emergency response manager at BRAVA Energia, highlighted oceanography as a tool for transformation. His career has been marked by overcoming challenges and a desire to inspire new generations. “For me, oceanographers are like a lens. A way of seeing, facing and solving problems. Our role is to open up paths and leave a legacy,” he said.