Her Story
About Winter
Winter Womack is an Instrument Operator Surveyor with Encompass Energy Services, where she specializes in land surveying for oil and gas pipeline construction projects. Based in Danville, Virginia, and originally from Colorado Springs, Colorado, she has built a successful career in the industry through her expertise in topographic surveys, as-built documentation, and staking land disturbance boundaries and proposed pipeline centerlines. Her work supports projects from initial planning through final construction, including the 31-mile MVP Southgate Line. Since reentering the workforce following a six-year period of incarceration, Womack has established herself as one of the industry's notable reentry success stories, earning recognition for her dedication, professionalism, and willingness to travel wherever projects require.
Committed to continuous learning, Womack is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in geology with a concentration in conservation through Southern New Hampshire University. She also maintains OSHA and substation certifications, allowing her to work safely and effectively across a variety of energy infrastructure projects. Mentored by Alex Alcaraz and trained through hands-on field experience, she has developed a reputation for precision, teamwork, and a strong commitment to safety. Her long-term goal is to combine her surveying experience with her geology education to expand into environmental and conservation-related opportunities within the industry.
Womack attributes her success to a genuine passion for her work, explaining that she has never questioned whether she wanted to be on the job because she truly enjoys what she does. She believes family and safety are the foundation of both her personal and professional life, striving to protect her loved ones while maintaining the highest safety standards in the field. Outside of work, she enjoys studying gems, rocks, and artifacts, interests that complement her academic pursuits. Her advice to young women considering careers in surveying and construction is simple but powerful: don't give up. Although women may face additional challenges in earning recognition in a traditionally male-dominated field, persistence, hard work, and a commitment to continual improvement can lead to lasting success.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Winter
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my genuine passion for what I do. I enjoy coming to work every day, and that enthusiasm motivates me to give my best. Because I love what I do, my work never feels like an obligation—it feels like an opportunity to grow and make a difference.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to follow instructions, stay true to myself, and always look for ways to improve. I also believe it’s important to pursue work that I genuinely enjoy, because passion drives long-term success and fulfillment.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Believe in yourself and know that you are just as capable as anyone else. At times, you may feel that you have to work harder to earn the same recognition, but don’t let that discourage you. Stay determined, keep pushing forward, and never give up. Your hard work and perseverance will make a difference.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is earning credibility and being taken seriously as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry. However, I also see this as an opportunity to demonstrate my skills, build trust through my work, and help create a more inclusive environment for those who follow.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My family and safety are my highest priorities. I am committed to protecting and caring for the people I love, and that same commitment extends to my work. Safety is essential in my profession, and I take that responsibility seriously because it affects not only my well-being but also the well-being of everyone around me.
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