Powerful dads expertly balance
work, family, and legacy
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Happy
Father’s Day
From imparting timeless wisdom to cherishing moments spent together, fathers and father figures embody the essence of strength, resilience, and love. Here at New Fortress Energy (NFE), fathers share their unique perspectives, not just as leaders in their fields, but also as dedicated dads striving to leave a lasting impact on their families and society. We’re honored to share the stories of two of our NFE dads – the lessons they've learned, the values they uphold, and the impact they aim to leave behind.
Meet Kristian
“Be good to mom, be gentle with the dog, and don’t put that in your mouth.” - Kristian Petric, Manager, Commercial Operations, New York, USA
After spending nearly a decade in accounting, Kristian Petric added to his expertise by taking on a broad variety of roles in several departments at New Fortress Energy. What he has learned about our business is now helping him balance maximizing our assets with reducing our costs.
His experiences here have also taught him about balancing professional responsibilities with fatherhood.
“I have had several years to learn from veteran fathers at NFE,” says Kristian, who became a dad 10 months ago when his son, Niko, was born. “They showed me that, even in a highly demanding environment, there are still ways to make it to the baseball game or take advantage of our generous PTO policy.”
He appreciates Father’s Day because of the opportunity it offers to recognize fathers, grandfathers, and father figures for their contributions to family and society.
“My grandfather, a Croatian immigrant, and my father instilled in me from a very young age the importance of a good education, discipline, and hard work,” he says. “I hope to be able to do the same for my son. Not every task will be attractive or exciting, but I want him to know that when you’re asked to do something, no matter how insignificant it might seem, it’s important to do it right.”
Of course, that’s a big ask for a little guy who’s not even a year old yet, so for now, Kristian keeps his fatherly advice somewhat simpler.
“I tell him to be good to mom,” he says, “be gentle with the dog, and don’t put that in your mouth.”
Although Kristian believes that most dads, himself included, don’t want a day to be all about them, he is looking forward to his first Father’s Day, whatever it brings.
“Hopefully it will be spent relaxing by the pool or on the beach with my family,” he says. “And hopefully my wife, who’s likely going to be planning the day, reads this!”
Meet Brian
“Treat people with respect, and always be kind.” – Brian Travalja, Facilities Director, New York
Brian Travalja has spent the past six years opening our offices throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. As a result, he has met quite a lot of colleagues – and made quite a lot of friends at work.
“NFE is an amazing company to work for, and some of my closest relationships have developed with my coworkers,” he says. “I love seeing coworkers showing pictures of their kids and the smiles on their faces. I like having people around with kids of similar ages and hearing how they’re making plans for the weekend to help unwind from the work week.”
Father’s Day has taken on a new meaning for Brian since his daughter, Charlotte, made him a first-time dad in January 2023.
“Charlotte has changed my perspective on life, and my wife and I are already teaching her life lessons,” he says. “We want her to know that you have to treat people with respect, and always be kind. Life is too short, and no one wants to surround themselves with negative people. Even if someone gets on your nerves, you should always be the bigger person.”
These are the same kinds of ideals Brian learned from his own dad.
“I’m fortunate to have a caring father who taught me family values,” he says. “He was strict but always there for my siblings and me. He made me the man that I am today. I call or text him every day to check in and let him know how much he means to me.”
Brian is grateful to spend Father’s Day with his wife and daughter.
“We look back on family memories throughout the year and laugh at the good times,” he says. “I am not sure yet how I will be celebrating this year – perhaps a round of golf with my family!
