ILTA Member Feature: Greg Mouras, Shell
Greg Mouras, General Manager of US Midstream Operations for Shell, got his start in the industry working at the company when he was fresh out of school 20 years ago. As an engineer providing technical support for operations, Mouras worked in upstream operations for 15 years before a new opportunity presented itself in midstream operations in 2018.
“That was when I really got opened up to the terminal industry, specifically in crude, refined products and chemicals,” Mouras said, touching on the two elements of his job he enjoys most. “Definitely the people. I get to work with a great team, extended team, and organization. That's what switches me on is getting to work with people.”
Mouras also enjoys the technical challenges and problem-solving aspects that come along with his role.
“In operations, there’s never a lack of things to work out, whether technically or commercially,” he said. “It really is a 24/7 fast-paced environment, which has always been appealing to me.”
Industry wide, Mouras says he’s noticed a shift over the last several years of companies focusing intently on their bottom lines, in addition to a major shift toward renewable, greener energy sources.
“In the last 10 or 15 years, there's been a huge shift in the United States where people are looking for cleaner sources of energy,” Mouras explained. “The appetite for energy is going to continue to grow. And as the world grows, as underdeveloped countries continue to continue to grow, the appetite for energy is only going to increase.”
This increase, Mouras predicts, will continue to offer tremendous security in the midstream terminals business, as the demand and need for energy is only going to increase.
“50 years from now, it’s going to be how that energy is supplied which could change,” he said. “I think the challenge may be how the terminal industry adapts to better suit the needs of customers, given that change in energy makeup.”
Mouras also sees technological advancements potentially going hand-in-hand with alternative energy sources in the future.
“Somewhere along the line, I think technology could play a big role in pushing one or a few of those emerging alternative fuels over the others,” Mouras said.
Thinking about the future workforce, Mouras also acknowledged that the liquid terminal industry is a great pathway for young people just getting started in their careers.
“I think it's a great opportunity for newer, younger employees or people entering the workforce. There's ample opportunity to get involved in these future changes and to build the new skill sets that are required to help the ever-shifting focus on energy and where it comes from.”
For those who are starting out at a new company or may have existing work experience but are just entering the industry, Mouras emphasizes the importance of diving in to learn all you can.
“You want to understand the business from start to finish, in and out—you want to be able to be the master of your job while understanding how it fits into the bigger picture and the vision of the company you work for,” he explained, adding that networking with colleagues is also imperative. “Really get to know people and understand what motivates them. Learn from the people who have been there and listen to how they can help you on your journey.”
Mouras, who sits on the ILTA Board of Directors, finds involvement with the association has helped him do just that.
“Being part of ILTA has been a huge plus and way for me to broaden my network, meet new people and learn from each other and share best practices,” he said.
In his spare time, Mouras could be found spending time with his family—wife of 15 years, Jennifer, and sons Michael (9) and Marc (8)—at soccer games and other extracurriculars. He’s also somewhat of a gearhead, with an affinity for restoring old BMW vehicles and working on his boat.