1. Tell us about your role. What are your responsibilities?
I’m a Project Engineer at Weatherford looking after the Well Services projects. Some of the key and vital responsibilities of my role are including Project Planning and Execution, Technical Expertise, Risk Assessment and Mitigation and finally Continuous Improvement to actively grow the business by providing operational efficiency and safety.
2. How has your role changed since you started? This could include new skills learned, movements into other departments, etc.
Starting as a Field Engineer and getting promoted to a Project Engineer, this transition came with some notable changes in responsibilities and skills developed over the years. Increased Project Management Responsibilities such as developing project plans, coordinating resources, monitoring progress, and ensuring timely project completion along with Enhanced Technical and Engineering Expertise are the most important ones which helped me to acquire a deeper understanding of well services and related technical aspects.
3. Can you tell us a bit about how your academic background? This can include subjects the person took a particular interest in at school, whether they undertook higher education or an apprenticeship or went straight into working?
My academic background consists of a BEng. degree in Mechanical Engineering followed by a MSc. degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Aberdeen. During my undergraduate studies, I developed a strong foundation in mechanical engineering principles, which provided me with a broad understanding of various engineering disciplines.
As part of my degree, I had the opportunity to undertake an apprenticeship with ENERGEAN as a graduate engineer. This experience allowed me to gain practical exposure to the oil and gas industry and apply the theoretical knowledge I acquired during my studies.
During my Master's degree in Petroleum Engineering, I further specialized in the field and deepened my knowledge of the oil and gas industry. It was during this time that I discovered my interest in resolving, enhancing, and rejuvenating problematic wells. This realization led me to pursue a career path in well services.
My academic journey has provided me with the technical expertise and industry-specific knowledge required to excel in the well services field.
Overall, my academic background in mechanical engineering, apprenticeship experience, and Master's degree in petroleum engineering have shaped my career trajectory and solidified my interest in the well services sector.
4. What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far in your career?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far is to follow your passion, aligning your career with your interests, and continuously seeking opportunities to grow and specialize in areas that truly excite you. This can lead to a fulfilling and successful professional journey where you can make a meaningful impact in your chosen field.
5. What would you recommend to someone looking to get started in the oil and gas industry? Advice directed to different segments would be particularly helpful, i.e. academy age, university/college students and apprentices, school leavers.
My recommendation to individuals looking to start a new career in the Oil and Gas industry will be to showcase your enthusiasm and work ethic, demonstrate your passion, dedication, and strong work ethic throughout your educational journey and future professional interactions. Employers value individuals who show genuine enthusiasm and commitment to the industry.
6. How has being an ICoTA member benefitted you?
Having joined ICoTA early in my academic career has helped me to connect and build relationships with industry professionals by attending conferences, seminars and dinners where you can network with industry experts, peers, and potential collaborators. But it also provided me with access to industry knowledge by offering lunch and learn sessions, online courses and of course exposure to the world’s latest technology and solutions through the annual Well Intervention Conference and Exhibition.
21 June 2023