Here's how you can future-proof your career in the Oil and Gas industry.

This morning was asked to attend a conference on reservoir engineering and AI. In a meeting was asked to prepare a slide on how compartments create train wrecks in big deepwater plays using fracture and fault detection. Part of this would look at Kan and Swan (2001) work. What you need to do is learn the tools that are available beyond your discipline and how they can be used to provide answers. Part of it would involve machine learning and predictive analytics. Someone told me the success of the U.S. economy is because of the development of AI. The other thing is be open minded and see how can you think differently in creating solutions to problems. If someone as old as me can think about using new technologies, you can as well.

The role of petroleum engineers is evolving with technology. Learning to code in languages relevant to the industry, such as Python or R, can be extremely beneficial. Coding skills will allow you to automate tasks, optimize operations, and even develop proprietary algorithms that could lead to significant efficiencies or discoveries.

Some ways to get started : 1. Doing smart work is more important in the oil and gas industry because the system is very dynamic and adapts to real time challenges and responsibilities to achieve required targets and fulfill commitments on time. 2. Using AI, Machine learning and Data Analytics plays a major role in deciding company growth and development. It also helps the employee to embrace technology. 3. For example, you can create a reservoir model in 3-D with the help of CMG and MRST where you can clearly see the fractures, folds and bedding layers easily to interpret them on the virtual. The results can be tried in the field after lab testing and approval.

As a result of sweeping change in industry trends, workforce should consider timely reskilling themselves through highly effective targeted training programs to help adjust to the rapidly shifting industry landscape. Apart from skills in areas such as data science and analytics, machine learning, robotics, remote operations, etc. that are driven by digital transformation, the need for cross-functional skills, including collaboration, regulatory and commercial strategy skills will also grow. Further, many of the traditional oil and gas expertise such as project planning and operations and maintenance, could be redeployed to emerging markets, such as offshore wind, hydrogen, and CCUS, either directly or with various degrees of reskilling.

The application of AI and machine learning in oil and gas is growing rapidly, from predictive maintenance of equipment to optimization of oil recovery and reducing operational risks. Understanding these technologies can help you lead projects that implement these tools, making you a valuable asset to your company.

You can future-proof you career in the oil and gas industry by being strategic. Observe the trend in the industry and key into it. Current trends is acquiring integrated skills, embracing cost effective measures and being acquitted with AI. Another area experience strategic growth is environmental science .key into skills like data interpretation, collaborative learning and a strong desire to adapt by harnessing cross functional skill sets.

A genuine passion for the oil and gas sector is crucial. This enthusiasm will drive you to stay updated with industry trends, understand the geopolitical and environmental challenges it faces, and foster a commitment to innovate within your role. Passion can be a significant motivator to engage deeply with the industry's future, particularly as it navigates towards more sustainable practices.