A conversation with Natalia Munoz, Water Weights® Technician – Houston
This International Women’s Day, we’re proud to spotlight Natalia Munoz from our Houston office, whose career journey reflects curiosity, determination and the courage to step outside her comfort zone.
Starting in an administrative role, Natalia took on the challenge of expanding her responsibilities into the technical side of operations, now supporting Water Weights® operations on-site and, to some extent, diving equipment activities in the workshop.
We spoke with Natalia about her journey, the lessons she’s learned and her message to women considering technical roles in the offshore industry.
What inspired you to take on an additional technical responsibility from a mainly administrative background?
Coming from an administrative background, I was always exposed to the operational side of the business. I was involved in purchasing and logistics, so I could see what was happening in the workshop and on jobs, but I wanted to truly understand it rather than just support it.
I was also looking for personal growth. I know I didn’t want to remain in an administrative role for my entire career, and I wanted to explore what the next step could be.
One of my biggest motivations is my daughter. I want her to see that women can work in roles and industries that are traditionally male-dominated. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and challenging myself, so stepping into equipment quality control and Water Weights® operations felt like the right move especially with the support of colleagues like Keith and Gerry who trained me, and Amit and Syed who gave me the opportunity to grow.
As a woman, what was the biggest challenge you faced stepping into the field and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge honestly was the fear of whether I would be accepted.
When you step into a role that has traditionally been male-dominated, you wonder if people will take you seriously. When I started going on-site, I felt like I had to prove myself just as much, if not more, than my male colleagues.
My focus was simple: show that I was willing to learn, work hard and not be afraid to get my hands dirty. With the encouragement and support of my teammates, that acceptance came naturally once people saw my willingness to do the job properly.
What has surprised you most about working on-site with Water Weights® equipment?
What surprised me the most is how detailed and precise everything must be.
Working with Water Weights® load testing bags requires strict safety standards and careful inspections. When you’re on-site, you realize how much responsibility is involved. If equipment isn’t inspected correctly or procedures aren’t followed, things can go wrong very quickly.
Being involved in the process has given me a deep respect for the work that goes into ensuring equipment is safe and reliable before it ever reaches a job site.
What advice would you give to other women considering a move into technical or operational roles?
Don’t let the fear of the unknown stop you. It’s normal to feel intimidated, especially when stepping into an environment that may seem unfamiliar or male-dominated. But growth rarely happens inside your comfort zone.
Be willing to learn, ask questions, show up ready to work and challenge yourself both physically and mentally. Most importantly, believe that you belong there and that you are capable.
Your message for International Women’s Day?
I want to remind women everywhere that you are capable of more than you think. Step into roles that challenge you and don’t limit yourself based on what has traditionally been done before you.
And to my daughter, and to all young girls, there is no field you cannot enter, no skill you cannot learn, and no space where you don’t belong. Growth can feel uncomfortable, but it’s always worth it.
