Energy Workforce President Molly Determan participated in a panel discussion with industry leaders at the Society of Petroleum Engineers Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE) in Houston. The panel, titled “Fresh Perspectives: How Cross-Industry Talent Is Futureproofing the Energy Workforce,” focused on how the energy sector is evolving its workforce strategies through technology, innovation, and leadership development.
Throughout the panel discussion, Determan emphasized the role that AI adoption has played in oilfield operations and how it has changed the direction of recruitment for talent. Noting how technology is a key driver of both safety and performance, the energy services sector has led the way in incorporating advanced analytics and machine learning in the field. From optimizing drilling to reducing downtime and enhancing operational efficiency, innovation continues to strengthen the industry.
Another theme discussed was the importance of continuous learning and upskilling already employed talent. Determan noted how new technologies are reshaping traditional energy roles, and companies must cultivate cultures that prioritize growth. By implementing structured training, leadership programs, and workforce pipelines, companies can retain expertise and bridge generational gaps within the sector.
She also touched on the critical nature of compelling industry storytelling. If we don’t tell our story, others will tell it for us, often not in the way we want. These efforts can help counter misconceptions about oil and gas careers while attracting top-tier talent that is motivated by purpose, stability, and innovation.
Determan shared the stage with Susan Howes, (Subsurface Consultants & Associates); Lauren Goodwin, (Mission Ops); Steven Estvold (H&P); and Kristin Ruzicka (Weatherford) to discuss strategies aimed at strengthening workforce resilience and leadership across the energy value chain.
About Energy Workforce & Technology Council
Energy Workforce & Technology Council is the national trade association for the global energy technology and services sector, representing more than 650,000 U.S. jobs in the technology-driven energy value chain. Energy Workforce works to advance member policy priorities and empower the energy workforce of the future.
