Spotlight on Fellow: Rhian Jones
We recently spoke to Rhian Jones, Fellow member of IGEM and Head of Hydrogen, Methane and CCS at Jacobs. We tell her career story and share some of the standout moments in her industry journey so far.
With nearly 35 years of experience in the gas sector, Rhian Jones has consistently demonstrated dedication, drive and a relentless commitment to excellence.
Rhian’s journey in the gas industry began in 1991, just two weeks after completing her GCSEs. She joined British Gas Wales as a Clerical Trainee at the age of 16, gaining invaluable hands-on experience across departments such as debt recovery and management accounts. Balancing work and study, she pursued a BTEC ONC in Business and Finance on a part-time basis before moving into a permanent role within the engineering department.
She said: “Although I had academic strengths in maths, physics and electronics, I was initially encouraged to pursue accountancy. But working alongside engineers sparked a passion that led me to pursue formal engineering qualifications including ONC, HNC, and eventually a BEng (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering.”
Since then, Rhian has held a variety of roles and most recently led a large multinational team at Jacobs, driving innovation and strategy across hydrogen, methane and carbon capture and storage (CCS). Today, she works in asset management, focused on energy-related projects within the regulated utility sector.
She said: “It’s a privilege to be in a role where I can influence critical infrastructure decisions, help clients enhance reliability, safety, operability and maintainability, and contribute meaningfully to the global energy transition.”
Serving as Chair of the IGEM Wales Section in 2011–2012 provided early leadership experience for Rhian, and in 2017 she achieved Chartered Engineer status with both IGEM and IMechE. That same year, she was nominated for the IMechE Karen Burt Memorial Award, and went on to achieve Fellowship in 2019. She also mentors through Jacobs’ MPDS scheme and the Women’s Utilities Network.
Rhian uses her Fellowship to inspire young engineers and women entering the sector. She said: “Being awarded Fellowship is a mark of professional excellence but for me it represents far more than a title. In a field where only around three per cent of engineering Fellows are female, becoming a Fellow is both a rare achievement and a deeply personal milestone.”
Rhian joined IGEM early in her career to extend her knowledge, connect with other professionals, and actively contribute to technical committees. She is currently Vice Chair of the South Wales IMechE Committee and is due to become Chair in 2026.
Rhian said: “From my early days as an Engineering Technician to achieving Fellowship status, IGEM has provided invaluable opportunities for learning, networking and contributing to the industry.
“Its technical resources and events have kept me informed and engaged while committee work, judging competitions, and sitting on technical review panels have allowed me to give back and stay connected with emerging talent.”
In her current role, Rhian relies on IGEM documents daily, especially as she navigates the evolving landscape of hydrogen and CCS.
To those entering the gas and energy sector, she advises: “Stay curious and open to learning from every experience. Don’t be afraid to pivot if your interests evolve; what begins as a clerical role could lead to engineering leadership, as it did for me.
“Engage with industry bodies like IGEM, attend events, and find mentors who can guide and support you. Most importantly, stay adaptable. The energy sector is undergoing rapid transformation, and those who are willing to learn, collaborate and innovate will be best positioned to make a lasting impact.
Rhian continues to champion IGEM’s role in shaping CCS policy and driving a mindset shift toward a low-carbon future.