IADC/SPE 128314: “Multilateral Wells Reduce CAPEX of Offshore, Subsea Development in Australia’s Northwest Shelf.”

By Maggie Cox, editorial coordinator

This industry is at a crossroads. With so much technology at our fingertips, companies can design and implement the most innovative tools for drilling. But the question remains: How do we incorporate new technology and young professionals with the steadfast methods that have carried us thus far? The conference will address challenges in creating harmony between man and machine and the short road to the future.

On the cusp of a rebounding economy, the first of the three plenary sessions at the 2010 IADC/SPE Drilling Conference focuses on the efficiencies of high-end rigs and equipment. Is improved technology taking its toll on costs? With technology becoming increasingly complex and companies needing employees to carry ever-higher skill sets, companies must reconcile technology with their own crews.

Mark Mitchell of Weatherford International will serve as moderator for the first session, “Is technology outpacing competency?” Panelists will be:

• Fred Florence, National Oilwell Varco

• Mark Childers, consultant

• Scott Sigurdson, BP

• Helge Hove Haldorsen, Statoil

Wednesday’s plenary session will deliberate the impact of educating young professionals in the oil and gas industry to maximize training to achieve the “Formula for Success.” The panel will discuss the needs of the industry and expectations from young professionals.

The moderator will be Charles Rhodes of CLR Solution. Panelists will be:

• Danny Rehg, Anadarko

• Dharmesh Prasas, Schlumberger

• Pat Neal, National Oilwell Varco

• Mike Roth Jr, EnCana

The previous two sessions will be tied together with Thursday’s discussion on “Automation: From Pipe Dream to Practicality.”

Panelists will converse on the industry’s “perceived barriers” in automation and ways to overcome them by integrating new technology and a young work force. Representatives from service, contractor and operator sides of the business will be present. This panel will also discuss the safety measures required for new automation technology in the industry.

Tim Juran from Seadrill will serve as moderator. Panelists are:

• Pat Mannina, Oceaneering

• David Payne, Chevron

• Alan Orr, Helmerich & Payne IDC

• Lyndol Dew, Diamond Offshore Drilling

• Hermann Spoerker, OMV E&P

The 2010 SPE/IADC Drilling Conference & Exhibition will be held 2-4 February at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, La.