Abstract
This study identified factors affecting the retention of Black female engineers in an oil & gas organization in southern California. Twelve current and former employees were interviewed to gather their insights about factors that contribute to and detract from the retention of Black female engineers. Study findings indicate that retention of Black female engineers in the oil & gas industry is associated with their career development and achievement, enjoyment of the work, compensation and opportunities, and support from others. Retention can be further aided by supporting their assimilation into corporate environment, assuring equitable career advancement, and assuring supervisors are skilled and culturally sensitive. Retention of these employees appears to be eroded by lack of support for development, diminished mental and emotional wellbeing, racial discrimination, lack of leadership and employee diversity, problems with their role, and lack of support from others. Recommendations are outlined for Black female engineers, organizations, and organization development practitioners.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Dissertations (MA) -- Organization Development; African American engineers -- Job satisfaction -- California, Southern; Women engineers -- Job satisfaction -- California, Southern; Employee retention; Employee retention
Date of Award
2019
School Affiliation
Graziadio Business School
Department/Program
Business
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Masters
Faculty Advisor
Chesley, Julie;
Recommended Citation
Keyes, Alisha, "Identifying factors that enhance or diminish retention of black female engineers in the oil & gas industry" (2019). Theses and Dissertations. 1107.
https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/etd/1107