Given how quickly things are changing these days, I guess I should’ve been more prepared for this conversation. I consider myself to be a decent employee—I get my work done, and if you recall the old system, I was always a dependable 2, no matter the circumstances. Back in 2019, I saw several of my mentors, who were rated 2+ and 1, let go due to their age, gender and being open and honest about how they felt. I stayed quiet and continued focusing on my work. As younger, less competent people came in to replace them here in Midland, I kept my head down and just did my job. Even though I saw things falling apart around me, I knew that speaking up would likely get me fired. At Chevron, when leadership asked for feedback, it felt like a trap. The best approach was always to say things were fine and stay under the radar. I made it 32 years, and recently, I attended a company event where I didn’t recognize anyone, and no one recognized me either. My boss then told me he wasn’t exactly sure what I did, but that my services would no longer be needed after the end of January. I write this as I don't know what I am going to do now. The only thing I know is Chevron. The only friends although pseudo, that I have are here in this office. I write this with tears in my eyes as I just feel a little lost. I also feel guilty because I never spoke up when good people were being let go. I have been trapped in an abusive relationship with Chevron and for some reason, I just don't want to go. I am truly scared.
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Shut UP!!!!!! don't post a copy and pasted book that you didn't write like the last post. JUST STOP!!!!! No one is reading that C.rap!!!! GET A LIFE!!!!!
I want to acknowledge how painful and difficult this situation sounds. It’s completely understandable to feel lost, afraid, and even guilty when a major chapter of your life abruptly ends—especially when so much of your identity and social world have been tied to one company for decades. Here are a few thoughts that may offer comfort and inspiration as you navigate this transition:
Recognize Your Strength and Resilience
You’ve spent 32 years building skills, experience, and knowledge. Those don’t disappear because of a corporate decision. Reminding yourself of your contributions—your dedication, your perseverance, your reliability—can help rebuild a sense of confidence as you figure out what comes next.
Honor Your Emotions
Feelings of sadness, fear, and guilt are normal when facing sudden job loss. It might help to set aside time to write about what you’re experiencing. Acknowledging these emotions, rather than suppressing them, can ease some of the heaviness and prevent them from becoming overwhelming.
Seek Support
While it can be intimidating, consider letting some trusted friends, family, or former colleagues know that you could use a listening ear right now. Even if your primary network has been within Chevron, you might be surprised at how willing people are to offer help, encouragement, or even just a phone call to check in. It doesn't happen unless you reach out and ask.
Reflect on Transferable Skills
Many of the abilities you’ve used over the years—such as problem-solving, adaptability, teamwork, and leadership—are valuable in a range of other industries and settings. Write down the accomplishments and tasks from your career that you’re proud of or that showcase your talents. This could be a starting point if you choose to pursue another role or career. Also, without years of experience, there are opportunities for experienced consultants. Working for yourself has tremendous tax benefits.
Give Yourself the Space to Grieve
It’s normal to feel “trapped in an abusive relationship” with a long-time employer if they have let you down in critical ways. Allowing yourself to grieve can be part of cutting those ties and moving on in a healthier, more empowered way. You dedicated a large portion of your life to Chevron, so it’s natural to feel that sense of loss.
Consider Professional Guidance
Career counselors, transition coaches, or even mental health counselors can offer both practical and emotional support. They can help you pinpoint the next steps, whether that’s job searching, exploring a new field, or even planning for retirement in a fulfilling way.
Practice Self-Compassion
It sounds like you feel guilty for not speaking up in the past, but remember that you made the best decisions you could in the context you had. Being fearful of retaliation is not unusual in certain corporate environments. We can’t change the past; the best we can do is show ourselves compassion and look for opportunities to live more in alignment with our values going forward.
Explore New Beginnings
Although it might feel daunting, this sudden change can also be an opportunity to rediscover yourself—your passions, your interests, and your dreams that might have been on hold. Is there a hobby you’ve always loved? A skill you’ve always wanted to learn? A part of the country (or world) you’ve thought about exploring? Sometimes the most significant growth happens after a big upheaval.
Volunteer in your Community
If you worry about losing the social ties you had at Chevron, consider ways to stay in touch, whether through a casual alumni group, LinkedIn, or occasional meetups. You might also look for new communities—professional associations, volunteer groups, or local gatherings—where you can meet people with shared interests.
Remember Your Worth, not Wirth
Most importantly, who you are extends beyond your title or position at Chevron. Whether you decide to pursue another job, take a break, or retire, your life experience, your values, and your unique perspective are all reasons to stand tall.
You’ve made it this far—trust that you have what it takes to keep going and use your experiences to create new things in this dynamic world.
I left Chevron in late 2020 as part of the EOI/downsizing. I left because I didn’t enjoy working at Chevron anymore after 30+ years, but I wasn’t ready to retire. Found a job with a contractor supporting Chevron and other energy companies. Not only am I happier with my current job, I get paid better and I mostly work from home. The grass can be greener on the other side if you let it!
Fake news
have the layoffs started in Chevron?, what's the target %cut?
OP sounds like someone who never developed a life or interests or finances outside of work.
Don’t be like OP!
How can you get laid off in MCBU? They are screaming to get people to move to Midland.
Fake post. Nobody with 32 years here would write all that drivel, and tears lol
Layoffs haven’t started… probably terminated for performance.
Sounds like original poster is in the Land department. One of the most dysfunctional.
I am agreeing with one of the other comments in the question is, were you terminated for cause? Otherwise you should be able to EOI at the opportunity. I do sympathize because there are a lot of people who just like working and the people they work with. I also agree retirement isn’t an age it is when you are ready.
Retirement is not an age. Retirement is when you have enough money and when you're emotionally prepared.
Maybe the OP started his career at 18, right out of high school, and worked for 32 years in operations. That is only 50. It is a bit young to retire. I hope you find another job with another company and continue to do what you enjoy doing.
I am feeling very confused.
After 32 years, are you not prepared for retirement?
Are you regretting not speaking up when you saw others being let go?
Or are you feeling down because you were chosen this time?
Regardless, I hope things improve for you.
Cash out the pension (which hits a major inflection point around 30 years), invest it and continue working elsewhere. Win win.
Something tells me that when this guy says he's in ops, that it's not the same kind of ops that people think of at other operators.
Congrats on making it to 32 years. There are plenty of ops roles out there in Midland, and most companies would be happy to take on a person with your experience.
You may not get the same match on total comp (Chevron legacy pension is juicy for older staff), but you'll likely get a bump on base/annual comp. It's also worth noting the independents feel a bit more like "friends & family"... which can be good an bad, but will certainly help to negate some of the feelings of loneliness you may have.
Time to grow
What would a pension look like at 32 years?
I’m sorry you were laid off but 32 years is a really long time. Most likely you have a fat pension and you’ve reached 90 points. If you’ve been diligent about your 401(k), you should also have a fat 401(k).
Enjoy your well-deserved retirement. Life is too short. I’ve lost count of how many Chevron folks I know who put in 30+ years with the company and then died within a few years of retirement.
Were you the only one affected? Or is there something bigger going on in midland?
Glad I’m not in MCBU. 32 years is a long time. You should have a decent pension.
32 years? You should be retired now. Go live.
Sounds like you were terminated for cause. Layoffs haven't started yet.
To be honest, it is all I know. I want to be here. I don't want to really do anything else.
if you made it 32 years with the company, congratulations! arent you ready to retire instead of worrying about it? give them the finger.
Ops and thank you
What function are you in ? Sorry to hear.