Energy Workforce & Technology Council hosted its annual Oil & Gas 101 seminar on October 7–8 at HMH, bringing together industry professionals for two days of learning focused on the fundamentals of the oil and gas industry.
Facilitated by Energy Workforce’s Emerging Executives Committee and hosted by HMH, the seminar featured industry experts from across the energy sector who provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the oil and gas value chain, from exploration and drilling to production, midstream, refining and supply chain operations.
Industry Foundations and Upstream Operations
Energy Workforce President Molly Determan opened the seminar with an overview of the industry, highlighting the companies, technologies and workforce supporting operations across the energy value chain. Determan also discussed the role of policy, workforce development and innovation in shaping the sector.
Daniel Romito of Opportune followed with an Energy Market Outlook, examining the economic and geopolitical factors influencing energy markets, growing power demand and the infrastructure needed to support future growth.
Attendees then explored the industry’s history with Andrew Kuchta of Forum Energy Technologies, who traced the discoveries and technological advancements that have shaped modern oil and gas operations.
Following Kuchta was Andrew Royle of Chevron provided an introduction to geology and seismic technologies, explaining how companies identify and evaluate resources beneath the surface.
The afternoon focused on drilling and completions, with Tom Yost of NOV providing an overview of rig systems and the drilling process. Michael Dardis of SLB concluded the day with a discussion on completions and flow equipment, highlighting technologies helping improve operational efficiency, reduce emissions and advance oilfield operations.
Energy Infrastructure, Operations and the Broader Energy Landscape
The second day expanded the discussion to the technologies, infrastructure and energy sources supporting oil and gas operations.
Justin Stark and Andy Bhattacharyya of Accenture opened the day with a look at how the rapid growth of AI and data centers is driving power demand, highlighting the infrastructure, technologies and workforce needed to support this expansion.
Darin Bohlmann of Caterpillar explored how power needs vary across oilfield operations and the different systems and technologies used to meet growing energy demand. Mike Robinson of TechnipFMC followed with an overview of subsea infrastructure and its role in offshore oil and gas production.
The afternoon continued through the energy value chain, beginning with Jon Determan of Western Midstream, who explored the role of midstream operations in gathering, treating and processing natural gas, crude oil and produced water.
David Roeder of Phillips 66 followed with an overview of refining and the processes that transform crude oil into fuels and everyday products. Milton Jones of Deloitte then discussed the evolving energy supply chain, highlighting how AI, digital technologies and interconnected operations can improve efficiency and strengthen supply chain resilience.
Chuck Chauviere of HMH closed the seminar with a look at the evolving global energy landscape, emphasizing the importance of energy advocacy and ensuring reliable, affordable energy for the future.
Over the past two days, attendees gained a broader understanding of the oil and gas industry, from exploration and drilling to midstream, refining and the technologies supporting operations across the energy value chain.
Energy Workforce extends its appreciation to the Emerging Executives Committee for facilitating this year’s seminar, the industry experts who shared their knowledge and experience, and all attendees who participated. Special thanks to HMH for hosting and Oil States for sponsoring breakfast on the first day.
The event was organized by Emerging Executive committee members who facilitated the seminar including Chair Nate King, Vice Chair Connor Sinclair, Barton Escamilla, Tony Eschete, Katy Tresselt, and Javier Franco.
Congratulations to all participants!
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Britney Turcios, Marketing Specialist, writes about the Energy Workforce & Technology Council. Click here to subscribe to the Energy Workforce newsletter, which highlights sector-specific issues, best practices, activities and more.
