As an attendee of various OTC shows for the last 22 years, and having visited the show every year since 2008, I have seen it evolve from a purely trade-based show to become a content rich all-round event.
Formerly an event aimed solely at sales, OTC has developed a strong technical arm. Whilst still providing the best opportunity to network with and meet potential clients, a key feature of the show now is that it brings industry figures together in an open forum to discuss important and topical issues.
For my part, this year I plan to attend several of the technical presentations, meet customers, suppliers and catch-up with my fellow peers from the sector.
I am interested in the discussion around deepwater technology evolution and shale drilling/completion operational efficiency improvements. These are issues the industry needs to address and commit to as a whole – we are at a crucial time for moving forward technology-wise.
OTC also provides the opportunity to meet the potential employees and industry representatives of the future. One of my favourite aspects of OTC is the attendance from engineering/technical university students. For many, this is their first introduction to the oil and gas industry and a great way for them to see first-hand just how innovative and technically-driven the sector is.
Over the years at OTC, I’m pleased that I continually see the passion for oil and gas that my colleagues and peers have. Hopefully, this is something that continues in younger professionals starting out and rising through the ranks. Not only is OTC an occasion for them to gain visibility with possible employers, but a chance for us, the operators and service companies, to pique their long-term interest and valuable skills.
I believe it is paramount to our industry that we continue expanding our attractiveness to young graduates and workers. The oil and gas sector is set to become more technology-driven and we simply can’t move forward without transferring this generation’s knowledge and attracting the best and brightest minds.
Watch the Expro leader speak to Energy Voice from the OTC exhibition floor here.
