From Offshore Engineer to Executive Leader: The Trailblazing Journey of Gladys DeClouet

By Christine MacMillan | Women Offshore Blog | Podcast Episode 245

In Episode 245 of the Women Offshore Podcast, Christine MacMillan speaks with Gladys DeClouet, author of A Layered Life: Breaking Barriers as a Trailblazing Black Woman in Corporate America, about her incredible journey across two male-dominated industries—offshore oil and gas, and the restaurant business.

Gladys began her career at Conoco Oil as the first female engineer in offshore exploration and production, blazing a trail for women in energy long before diversity initiatives were standard practice. Over the next 30 years, she rose through the ranks at BP, Burger King, and Jack in the Box, leading multi-billion-dollar divisions, building diverse, high-performing teams, and setting new standards for operational excellence.

Her story is one of grit, grace, and growth—from breaking barriers as both a woman and a person of color to mentoring the next generation of leaders. Gladys brings warmth and wisdom to her reflections, sharing insights from her memoir A Layered Life, which dives into the complexities of identity, perseverance, and purpose.

Tune in to Episode 245 to hear Gladys discuss how she turned adversity into opportunity, what leadership truly means, and why mentoring is one of the most powerful legacies we can leave behind.

Learn more about A Layered Life at gladysdeclouet.com.