How do you stay current with field development technologies?

1 Read industry publications

One of the easiest and most accessible ways to stay current with field development technologies is to read industry publications, such as journals, magazines, newsletters, blogs, and podcasts. These sources can provide you with valuable insights, trends, case studies, and expert opinions on various aspects of field development, such as reservoir characterization, well design, drilling techniques, completion methods, production optimization, and project management. You can subscribe to online or print versions of these publications, or browse them on your own time. Some examples of industry publications are SPE Journal, World Oil, Oilfield Technology, Drilling Contractor, and Oil and Gas Engineering.

2 Attend webinars and events

Another way to stay current with field development technologies is to attend webinars and events, such as conferences, workshops, seminars, and courses. These platforms can offer you the opportunity to learn from industry leaders, experts, and peers, as well as to network and exchange ideas with other professionals. You can also get exposure to the latest research, innovations, and best practices in field development, as well as to interact with vendors and suppliers of field development technologies. You can find webinars and events through industry associations, such as SPE, AAPG, SEG, and IADC, or through online platforms, such as Upstream Online, Oil and Gas IQ, and Energy Institute.

3 Join online communities

A third way to stay current with field development technologies is to join online communities, such as forums, groups, and social media platforms. These communities can allow you to connect with other professionals who share your interests, challenges, and goals in field development. You can also ask questions, share experiences, seek advice, and give feedback on various topics related to field development technologies. You can find online communities through platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, and Quora, or through specialized websites, such as Oilpro, Drillers, and PetroWiki.

4 Enroll in online courses

A fourth way to stay current with field development technologies is to enroll in online courses, such as MOOCs, certificates, and degrees. These courses can help you enhance your knowledge, skills, and credentials in field development, as well as to keep up with the latest developments and standards in the industry. You can choose from a variety of courses that cover different aspects of field development technologies, such as reservoir engineering, drilling engineering, production engineering, and project management. You can find online courses through platforms such as Coursera, edX, Udemy, and FutureLearn, or through universities and institutions, such as MIT, Stanford, Imperial College London, and IFP School.

5 Experiment with new tools

A fifth way to stay current with field development technologies is to experiment with new tools, such as software, hardware, and equipment. These tools can help you improve your efficiency, accuracy, and creativity in field development, as well as to solve problems and overcome challenges. You can try out new tools by downloading demos, accessing free trials, or requesting samples from vendors and suppliers. You can also learn how to use new tools by watching tutorials, reading manuals, or taking courses. Some examples of new tools in field development technologies are reservoir simulation software, drilling optimization software, production forecasting software, and digital twin technology.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?