Recently, WINS has welcomed Juan Guevara, Global Regulatory Compliance Manager at SLB, as a WINS Academy Ambassador. To get to know him better, the WINS team asked him a few questions regarding his WINS learning journey as well as what advice he would have for those considering joining the WINS Academy.
What was your elective for the WINS Academy? Why did you choose it?
My initial elective was Radioactive Source Security Management, because I found it highly relevant to my specific field of expertise. In my role within the energy sector, where I am responsible for developing corporate guidelines across various geographies, this elective provided valuable insights and expanded my knowledge on radioactive source security.
What inspired you to become a WINS Academy Ambassador?
I have accumulated extensive experience in radioactive source security, spanning from operations to management. I find it both professionally and personally fulfilling to support and enhance this knowledge among colleagues worldwide, by promoting increased visibility through the certification programme established by WINS.
What advice do you have for current WINS Academy learners or those considering enrolling?
For current and future career development, the visibility of your contributions and expertise is fundamental. WINS certification programmes offer structured knowledge education and official recognition of your proficiency, making them a valuable addition to your professional development and career visibility.
In many organisations – where radioactive sources are not the core of their business – roles responsible for the safety of these sources are often integrated into other functions. This can result in the expertise of these roles not receiving proper recognition and visibility. This is where WINS programmes become a game changer.
WINS certification programmes offer structured knowledge education and official recognition of your proficiency, making them a valuable addition to your professional development and career visibility.
How has your WINS Academy training shaped your understanding of nuclear security threats and risks?
The training is given as a very structured way to build up understanding from the basic concepts of radioactive source security to the understanding of managing the different processes involved. This will provide a well-rounded understanding of what radioactive source security is and the reasons behind the best practices for managing the security.
How do you think advancing gender equality, diversity and inclusion would enhance your field?
I have been fortunate to work for a company that has long fostered a culture of diversity, having proactively championed gender equality and inclusion for years. This commitment has proven to be a significant strength, enhancing the diversity of skills and perspectives within the organisation and enabling greater flexibility in delivering results across various working environments and situations.
What advice would you give women who are entering the field?
I would give them the advice that it should apply to any field, not only related to nuclear/radioactive source safety:
Women entering the field of nuclear safety should start by obtaining a relevant education and fostering continuous learning to stay current in this ever-evolving field. Building a strong professional network, seeking mentorship, and joining industry organisations is crucial for career advancement.
Developing robust technical skills, promoting a safety culture, and embracing leadership roles are essential for success, and diversifying skill sets to include communication and project management skills will enhance effectiveness in multidisciplinary teams.
Advocating for inclusivity, staying committed to your goals, and seeking work-life balance are also important aspects of a successful career in nuclear safety.
Remember that women can make significant contributions to any field, and their unique perspective and skills are assets that can drive positive change and progress.
