Energy Workforce Members Have Lead the Evolution of Energy Production
As part of the monthly “In Our Element” series honoring Energy Workforce’s 90th Anniversary, we are highlighting how the men and women of Energy Workforce are “Changing the Element” through the evolution of energy production over the past 90 years. Through technological innovations and ingenuity, energy production today is cleaner and more efficient than ever before, while continuing to meet the ever-growing demand for energy globally.
The foundations of the industry we see today began with early inventions like the blowout preventer, the tri-cone drill bit, and the introduction of a steel drilling rig. These cutting-edge advancements laid the foundation for so many of the processes and systems the industry still uses today.
The increased demand for oil during World War II solidified the industry’s role as the supplier for the growing global demand for energy. The post-World War II era included innovations such as wireline logging, early hydraulic fracturing and advancements in offshore drilling. These early technologies were the catalyst for the explosion of new innovations and processes like directional drilling, subsea equipment and automation that grew in scale capacity to form the industry we know today.
With global energy demand only increasing, our companies continue to build on the nine decades of advancements to take on the dual challenge of expanding production while lowering emissions.
As the industry looks to the future, there is a continued focus and investment in technologies that offer a solution to this multifaceted challenge. Energy Workforce Members are leaders in technologies like methane monitoring systems that prevent costly and harmful methane leaks. And expanding E-frac fleets that significantly reduce emissions from pressure pumping, without sacrificing the hydraulic fracturing process that yields cleaner burning natural gas. And adapting the knowledge of offshore production to support offshore wind development or streamline the natural gas liquefaction process.
The men and women of Energy Workforce are “Changing the Element” of energy production in ways the early producers could have only imagined. The determination to meet the calls for reliable and affordable energy, along with the enduring spirit of innovation will power the industry into the next century of success.
Deidre Almstead Kohlrus, Senior Director Government Affairs, writes about industry-specific policies for the Energy Workforce & Technology Council. Click here to subscribe to the Energy Workforce newsletter, which highlights sector-specific issues, best practices, activities and more.
