Those joining the oil and gas industry today will play a crucial role in accelerating the sector towards net zero and galvanising its position in the energy mix.
Westhill-headquartered Tendeka is a global specialist in advanced completions, production solutions and sand management.
Members of the team have provided an insight into why a future in the sector is a responsibility and a challenge unlike any other.
Putting carbon management in the limelight
“We have set up a Carbon Management Committee responsible for measuring our carbon footprint and implementing annual reduction targets, with aims to be net zero by 2030,” says Gillian King, vice president, Europe, Russia, CIS and Africa.
“This is a hugely important programme. KPIs around sustainability will be implemented throughout the organisation to minimise our environmental impact.
“Along with reducing our carbon emissions, developing solutions to sustainably maximise economic recovery is well underway.
“In addition to our existing technologies, R&D work to adapt downhole monitoring, data interpretation, injection enhancement and inflow/outflow control technologies to suit carbon capture and storage (CCS) is on the agenda. CCS is considered vital to meet net zero goals.”
O&G industry embracing a greener path
“The industry faces multiple challenges, not least the rising popularity of alternative fuels and greener energy but also price/market volatility and corporate social responsibility,” believes Nicola Wigg, a lab engineer with Tendeka.
“Companies are now trying to embrace and overcome these challenges by changing their strategy and way of thinking. The industry is finally trying to become part of the overall solution rather than the source of the problem.”
Changing perceptions of an O&G career
Global applications engineer Amy Barclay, says: “Societal demand to decarbonise is seeing everyone embrace a broader and more cohesive energy mix. A lot of new technologies are being created to help reduce carbon footprint. There are some amazing opportunities out there.”
Opportunities to progress
Technical support manager, Eilidh McKay, states: “Don’t focus on getting the “end-goal” role. Consider entry level opportunities and get involved in different aspects of the industry so you can see where fits you best. Our programmes cover core training and competencies while there is also support for further education and we are stepping up our mentoring plans.”
Attracting new talent
“Sharing and developing the skills and knowledge of the workforce will be key to attracting the next generation of talent,” says senior applications engineer Krzysztof Buchajczuk.
“The oil and gas industry is about the people and its goal to leave the world a better place when the last ‘tap’ is eventually closed. That is only possible from inside. The shape of the industry will be carved by the people that are motivated to drive the transition.”
The drive and ingenuity of everyone working in the sector, embracing a broader energy mix, enhancing digitalisation and upskilling its workforce, will power the industry into a safer and more sustainable era.
