Influential Woman · Oil and Gas

Gereline Jones

Recruiter, Turner Industries

Freeport, TX

Her Story

About Gereline

I began my career in 1986-87 working in construction through the union at the Newt, making $10 and some change an hour. I discovered that construction offered great hours, Monday through Thursday or Friday, and good money, which I had never realized before. I continued on that path through various field roles. In 2004, my career took an unexpected turn when an employment manager who had kept me working month after month reached out about an employment rep position. I initially declined because I had just finished a grueling 3-month turnaround in Rosenberg with no days off and wanted a break. She called back a week later, then again, and I finally gave in even though I had no HR experience, just field office work. She left shortly after, and I found myself running the office alone from April to November with no clue what I was doing. I had to learn everything myself, reaching out to people to get the information I needed to take care of operators, pipe fitters, and other craftsmen, and even setting up safety councils. I progressed from employment rep to recruiter to employment manager. What helped me grow in the role was bringing my field experience with me. I understood what the needs were and what I was looking for when recruiting because I had done the work myself. It made a big difference. I continued in this path because it became a passion. I enjoy putting people to work and being able to offer them an opportunity. That's what makes my day. Looking ahead, I want to continue as a leader, advancing my career and sharing my wealth of knowledge and experience with the generations coming up. I want to be not just an employee manager or supervisor, but a true leader, potentially moving into roles like assistant VP. I may have some age on me, but I don't let that stop me.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Gereline

01What do you attribute your success to?

I would say it's the upbringing. You learn those values from your parents, and it just trickles on down. My daughter is a go-getter just like me, and that's where those values come from - the discipline and guidance you receive from your parents. That's been a big part for me, having that support. My mother was extremely strict, and my dad would always tell me little things. My nickname is Punkin', and he used to say, 'Punkin', when you do things, you make sure you do it to the fullest.' He used to always say things like, 'if you wear shorts, don't wear them too short.' Those old-fashioned values, being strong and having that strong family support - that's what I attribute my success to.

02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

Don't be afraid, for one. That was one of the things when I was recruiting - women would come in looking for work and say, 'Well, I don't know if I can do that. That's not something I've ever done.' I would explain to them that the hardest part of getting into the industry is just showing up to work. If you show up for work, get out there, and focus on what needs to be done, then everything else will fall into place, and it's not as hard as they think it is. Just don't allow anyone to deter you because you are a woman. You just focus on what you need to do and keep going. I trust in the Lord because He plays a big role in everything we do. And don't get complacent in one spot. You learn, you observe, and you find that niche that works for you, and you just continue to ride. Continue to focus on that, and you'll be able to be successful.

03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

Always being honest is number one. One of the most important things to me is not just focusing on myself, but being able to help someone. What makes my day is being able to give people a glimmer of hope. When people are unemployed, they're already in a mood or feeling down. When they walk into that office, even if I don't have anything available, just being able to say, 'Hey, there's something on the way. Reach out to me, touch bases with me on a regular basis. As soon as we get something, I'll do my best to try and put that smile on your face and give you a job.' That's what makes my day - being able to help someone else. I'm just an easy person who loves life. I don't let much bother me because you can't dwell and harbor over things that may have happened in the past. You just pick up and keep it moving. Even when I'm at work, even if I've got some things going on, I don't bring it to work. I leave it at home. I'm always happy. I'm just a happy person.

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