Can you tell me your name, current position at DUS, and career journey?
My name is Jayme Thomas, and I’m the Operations Coordinator at DUS. I started as a temporary housekeeping hire in Nenana, then moved into a permanent role in Kuparuk. After several months, I became a lead supervisor and later transitioned into an HSE technician role, focusing on safety for three years. I also trained as an executive housekeeper and worked in other support roles. Before moving to headquarters, I was a step-up HSE specialist, overseeing training and supervising technicians.
Is it common for people to work in DUS facilities and safety roles?
It’s not typical, but DUS makes it possible for people who want to grow. Some employees are happy specializing in one area, like housekeeping, and that’s great. Others, like me, are interested in learning new skills and moving up. Early on, my supervisor encouraged me to take on a lead role, and from there, I kept saying yes to new responsibilities — overseeing operations, managing supplies, and eventually stepping into safety. Kuparuk is unique because it has dedicated on-site safety positions, which became my natural next step. With support from leaders who saw my potential, I was able to bridge both facility and safety roles and build a career I enjoy.
How do you feel about the rotational schedule typically observed by Slope workers, and how has it impacted your life at different stages?
Early on, the two weeks on, two weeks off schedule was terrific—my husband and I traveled often without worrying about PTO. The schedule became more challenging after we had our son, but DUS was incredibly supportive. They always made sure I could prioritize my family if something came up. My husband also works at DUS, and we felt the company had our backs. When our schedules no longer worked for our family, I planned to resign—but DUS offered me a role in town instead. That flexibility allowed me to stay with a company I love while being more present at home.
What aspects of your work on the Slope prepared you for your current role in the office?
My time on the Slope gave me firsthand insight essential to my office role. I know what it’s like to work in housekeeping or the kitchen, and I understand the urgency of filling roles during a tight rotation. That empathy helps me respond effectively, even when we can’t act immediately. My safety background is also key—I’ve seen how quickly situations can escalate, and that perspective helps me support DUS’s safety culture. I also help recruit and prepare new hires, many of whom are brand new to the Slope. Because I’ve been there, I can guide them through the process and make sure they feel ready before they fly out.
How has DUS’s commitment to professionalism and integrity influenced your daily work?
In my nearly nine years with DUS, I’ve seen how deeply the company values its people—not just as workers, but as individuals. From the beginning, DUS emphasized safety, professionalism, and integrity across all roles. That environment shaped me. I came in young and a little fiery, but over time, those values became second nature. They’ve helped me grow into the professional I am today.
What does DUS’s focus on safety mean to you, both on the job and outside of work?
Learning DUS’s core safety values has genuinely become a part of my identity. It’s not just about following procedures at work but bringing those lessons home to my family. As we said on the Slope, the priority is always to go to work safely and come home even safer.
Could you share moments when a member of the DUS leadership team or a supervisor stood out to you as especially supportive or inspiring?
Early in my career, I had a lead who saw my potential before I saw it in myself. She guided me to be more thoughtful and encouraged me when I stepped into her role temporarily. That belief gave me confidence. Later, when I hesitated to apply for a safety tech position, several leaders reminded me I was already doing the work and encouraged me to make it official. Most recently, when I considered leaving the Slope, Kim and Maria both offered incredible support. They believed in me and helped me find a role that fit my changing needs—something I’m deeply grateful for.
Were there any trainings you found especially valuable for career advancement?
The HR Leadership Training was one of my most valuable experiences. Though it started as a manager training, DUS included all supervisors, which was a great decision. We learned how to handle different personalities, de-escalate issues, and use support systems instead of taking everything on alone. One key takeaway for me was learning how to support struggling team members—helping them grow instead of just letting them go. It changed how I lead.
What advice would you give someone considering a career at DUS?
Be open to starting wherever there’s an opportunity, even if it’s an entry-level role. It’s a chance to learn how things work and show your potential. I didn’t get every job on the first try—I had to apply multiple times. Don’t take that as rejection. Be persistent, ask questions, and tell people you will work your way up. That attitude goes a long way.
In your opinion, what makes DUS a unique and rewarding place to work?
What makes DUS stand out is the opportunity to grow. Roles open up often, and if you’re motivated, you can move up quickly—I did. There’s also flexibility to work at different sites, which keeps things fresh and helps you explore new paths. That combination of growth and variety makes DUS a rewarding place to build a career.