ENGINEERS are at a premium in the offshore industry. One such individual is Peter Brannen, of Aker Solutions.
What does your job involve?
I am responsible for the control engineering delivery on projects, acting as lead engineer with a substantial engineering resource to manage to ensure projects are technically compliant and delivered to the client on time and within budget.
Why did you choose a career in the oil&gas industry?
Having finished university and completed a two-year graduate scheme for a major food company, I found myself in an industry which did not excite me.
I wanted to go into one with global reach, was at the cutting edge of technology and for which the UK was a leader within the field, ultimately providing me with a challenging environment in which I could develop a defined career path.
One of the few that could offer such a challenge was the UK oil&gas sector. With this in mind and my desire to change my career path, I joined Aker Solutions and embarked on my second graduate scheme.
What do you want to achieve in your career?
At present, I am a lead engineer for the subsea control system on a major EPC contract that Aker Solutions recently won.
My immediate career ambitions are to excel in my current role and move into a project-management function. The longer-term aim is to move into a technical role that oversees a whole project scope, encompassing a complete subsea production system.
What motivates you to get up every morning to go to work?
The challenges I face in my day-to-day role are diverse and every day is completely different. One day I may be completing detailed design functions and the next day I am on site testing equipment.
The excitement of the different environments and challenges I face on a daily basis make it extremely easy to motivate myself in the mornings. I totally enjoy what I am doing.
What do you value most about your job?
The vast array of opportunities, people and cultures I interact with throughout my working week, alongside the unique project-based challenges which make me value my job.
Having also seen and worked within other industries, I can fully appreciate the UK oil&gas sector’s value to my career. There are endless opportunities should you wish to embark on these.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
One of the best pieces of advice that has been given to me occurred when I joined Aker Solutions, and this advice has proved itself true on many occasions.
Do not to be afraid to ask questions if you do not completely understand the situation. This not only shows your eagerness to learn, but there is a very good chance that at least one other person sitting in the meeting does not fully understand what is being presented. Don’t be afraid to look stupid.
Recommended for you
