Dave Maxwell was among the group of promising high fliers rewarded late last year by Oil & Gas UK. He was then a technician, but today, he is operations production supervisor on the Forties Delta platform operated by Apache North Sea.
But why did he select a career in the oil&gas industry in the first place?
“As a young lad making career choices, it was clear in my mind from a very early age that I wanted to follow in my grandfather’s and father’s footsteps and work in the petrochemical/oil&gas industry,” says Maxwell.
“Having completed a four-year mechanical engineering apprenticeship in the petrochemical industry, I was looking to broaden my skills, further develop my knowledge and abilities, and take my career to the next level.
“I firmly believe the oil&gas industry and Apache North Sea was, and still is, the best place to do that. The opportunities are endless for individuals just like me with the drive and passion to succeed.”
What do you want to achieve in your career?
“I joined Apache in 2003 as a mechanical technician. I then cross-trained in the production-technician role, enabling me to become a very flexible multi-skilled technician.
“I gained my control-room technician qualification, then became fully competent in the area-authority role, controlling all work fronts on the platform. For a prolonged period, I undertook a stand-in platform supervisory position, reporting directly to the OIM (offshore installation manager).
“The next step for me was a permanent supervisory position and, from here, I put no boundaries on my career progression. As long as I have the drive and passion, I will continue to set and reach new goals, progressing through the ranks as I do so, having the same positive effects and influences on my colleagues and team-mates as I have at the moment.
What motivates you to get up every morning to go to work?
“Motivation to go to work has never been a problem for me. I thrive on the challenges encountered in the North Sea. I am highly motivated by responsibility and have always taken great pride in my work. I work to a very high standard and always encourage others to do so also.
“Also, I get a real sense of achievement when mentoring and developing other members of my team. Seeing them succeed is a key factor in my motivation. As for me, I will continue to seek out new challenges.”
What do you value most about your job?
“The thing I value most about my job with Apache is, firstly, the opportunities available to hard-working, passionate individuals within the company. And I also value the skills gained from my colleagues and the excellent working relationships that I have with them. I value the openness, honesty and support displayed and given from all levels within the company, from the top to the bottom, a style and structure that enables a very safe and productive setting.”
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
“I have been given lots of valuable advice from experienced people throughout my career, all of which is important to me and the way I work, and contribute to the high standards that I strive for. Two pieces of advice that I value most are:
“Don’t jump in two feet first. Take a step back and assess the situation.
“Act like a sponge and absorb all the experience and knowledge around you and, most importantly, respect the individuals that impart that experience and knowledge.”
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