ConocoPhillips chief economist recognized as influential woman in energy

The Women’s Network would like to congratulate Helen on her recent honor as one of Oil & Gas Investor’s 25 Influential Women in Energy. Helen was recognized for her contributions and is being honored with a group of truly remarkable women making history in the energy industry. The accomplishments of these women are inspiring as they shape the future for their respective companies and lead the way for others to follow in their footsteps.” ConocoPhillips Women’s Network

Chief Economist Helen Currie was recently honored as one of Oil and Gas Investor’s 25 Influential Women in Energy. Currie was among honorees recognized for their outstanding accomplishments, leadership ability and service to both the community and industry.

“It is an honor to be recognized by one’s peers,” said Currie. “I am humbled and grateful – grateful for the opportunity to work with the wonderful people I work with every day.”

Helen Currie

Currie began her energy career as an economic analyst, producing economic impact studies for the state of Washington’s Department of Ecology. After completing her doctorate in finance, Currie served on the finance faculty at Elon University, where she also developed student leadership organizations and coached master of business administration and undergraduate students through the finance and economics curricula. In 2001, she moved to Houston and joined ConocoPhillips’ Gas, Power & NGL Marketing risk management organization.

In her current role as chief economist, Currie works to position the company for success by anticipating market moves and trends as early as possible. Her experience in business, government and academia, along with mentoring from a friend and former professor, has helped shape her into an influential leader at ConocoPhillips and in the energy industry.

“My advice to other women in the energy industry is to, first and foremost, learn something from every experience you’re in — whether it is positive or negative,” said Currie. “Look around and find something positive to take away with you for tomorrow.


”As professionals, we inevitably have high expectations of ourselves and others around us. It’s hard for us to allow ourselves to make mistakes — to be human. You’re entitled to be human. Shed your fear of failure. I like the adage to ‘fail fast.’ The key is to learn something and get right back up and try again or just move on to the next opportunity.”


“Also, don’t be too hard on yourself. As professionals, we inevitably have high expectations of ourselves and others around us. It’s hard for us to allow ourselves to make mistakes — to be human. You’re entitled to be human. Shed your fear of failure. I like the adage to ‘fail fast.’ The key is to learn something and get right back up and try again or just move on to the next opportunity.”

When not in the office, Currie — an avid cyclist and runner — can often be found riding through the Colorado mountains. She shares her cycling passion with others by working with a Houston charity to build and donate bicycles to kids. Currie also serves on the executive advisory board of the College of Business at Mississippi State University and is a fan of the Lady Bulldogs basketball team.