More than 25 years ago, Bobby Sizemore launched his energy industry career breaking out in the field. Sizemore’s story in the oil and gas industry began in 1999 with hands-on experience. He spent his first seven years in several roles, including floorhand, motorhand, derrickhand and briefly as a driller before stepping into management. Those experiences made him recognize the critical importance of safety and leadership.
In 2014, Sizemore started his H&P journey in West Texas as a safety representative in the Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) department. Within a year and a half, he was selected for a safety leadership coach (SLC) position. His dedication to improving H&P’s safety culture led to a series of promotions, including becoming the supervisor of the SLC team. Sizemore now resides in Tulsa where he is the safety leadership training manager.
He credits the supportive leadership at H&P, particularly his early interactions with Warren Hubler, retired vice president of HSE and Micah Backlund, director of North America Solutions HSE, for making him feel confident in his decision to join the team.
“H&P’s culture is what truly makes this company special. You don’t have to personally know anyone for them to care about you. Here, kindness isn’t just a gesture it’s a way of life. Everyone is always ready to lend a helping hand, often before you even ask,” Sizemore said.
After moving to Tulsa, Sizemore and his family experienced a devastating house fire.
“What could have been one of the darkest moments of our lives turned into an overwhelming experience of love, generosity and support.,” he said. "Those we knew and those we didn’t rallied around us, offering help in ways we never expected. Their kindness carried us through the uncertainty, reminding us that we weren’t alone.”
Even now, Sizemore still gets choked up thinking about it. “That’s the heart of H&P. It’s not just a workplace it’s a family,” he added.
Reflecting on the recent acquisition of KCA Deutag, Sizemore says there’s an opportunity to emphasize the importance of Actively C.A.R.E. (Control And Remove Exposures) not just as a value but as part of the foundation of H&P’s HSE initiatives.
“It defines how we interact with one another; from the way we communicate with respect, to the steps we take to keep each other safe on the job site. By Actively Controlling and Removing Exposures, we ensure that everyone goes home safely at the end of the day. Actively C.A.R.E. is more than a principle it’s a commitment we live by every day,” Sizemore said.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Sizemore is also embracing life as a new grandparent. His daughter, Mikal, recently welcomed a son, Elias.
“Being a grandparent is on a whole different level,” he said. “You get to spoil them endlessly without all the responsibilities that come with parenting.”
Sizemore encourages employees to remember that, “Safety is not just about protecting yourself; it’s about protecting those who love you.”