Preseta Anderson - Facilities Engineer

Meet Preseta Anderson, a Facilities Engineer at XTO Energy, an ExxonMobil subsidiary!

I was born in Mumbai, India and immigrated to Houston at age 5. I then moved to Oklahoma City, OK at age 8, where I grew up and attended Putnam City schools. I graduated from the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics. Afterward, I attended the University of Oklahoma and earned a BA in Spanish/Pre-Med. I worked for a couple years as a teacher. After realizing teaching was not my passion, I returned and received a second degree from the University of Oklahoma in Mechanical Engineering. I have worked for ExxonMobil since graduating in May 2014. I spent 5 years in Baton Rouge at the Refinery and Chemical Plant, and I've been in the upstream through XTO since August 2019. I also have 3 children, a 7 year old boy (Amaru), a 5 year old boy (Samir) and a 2 year old daughter (Naeemah).

Why is diversity in STEM important to you?

Diversity is important because each of us has a unique viewpoint and method of living and problem solving based on who we are, how we grew up, and our background. Being a woman or minority in our society causes many of us to have similar and shared experiences that give us sensitivity when solving problems that others won't have. Diversity is needed in STEM so we can bring our unique experiences to work better in a global environment. 

What is your greatest accomplishment?

My greatest accomplishment is being the mother I want to be while pursuing the career I love.

What advice would you give to youth who are interested in your career field?

My advice to youth is: pick a career field that will give you financial freedom and stability, that's an asset regardless of the market, and that will constantly push you. I wholly believe STEM encompasses all of those things, and it provides the income to let a person pursue their other passions on the side.

What is your personal or professional mantra?

Stay positive regardless of what life brings you.