Being Anasuria: George Balfour, Operations Technician

Today, we are delighted to introduce George Balfour , Operations Technician on the Anasuria FPSO. George joined our AOC family with a fresh perspective as a Trainee Operations Technician two and a half years ago. Now, fully qualified, he brings a combination of academic excellence and hands-on experience, exemplifying the dedication and skill that drive our success.

George’s journey from Shetland to the Anasuria FPSO showcases a strong passion for the oil and gas industry and a continuous pursuit of professional growth. He brings a unique blend of practical know-how and innovative thinking to our team.

Read more about George below.

PROFESSIONAL FIVE

How did you end up working in this role?

Growing up in Shetland, I attended Brae High School where OPITO introduced us to the concept of modern apprenticeships. Initially, I decided to pursue a different path and enrolled at the University of Edinburgh to study Applied Mathematics. However, after a year, I shifted my focus to the OPITO Oil and Gas Technical Apprenticeship Programme where I studied the Process Operations discipline.?I spent two years in college and then completed an 18-month placement on the Anasuria FPSO.

What's your career history?

This is my first job following two years in college. After completing my 18-month placement in July 2023, and earning my HNC in Petroleum Process Technology, Operations and control?as well an SVQ in Processing Operations: Hydrocarbons SCQF Level 7, I transitioned into a permanent role as an Operations Technician, where I have been working for the past year.

What's your favourite AOC value, and how does it align with you?

Be progressive. My first placement on the Anasuria FPSO was not only my initial visit to the asset but also my first experience offshore. Despite my nerves and not knowing anyone, I quickly noticed that the environment is one of constant activity and learning. Graeme Bremner , the Operations Supervisor, who also completed the OPITO apprenticeship, became a great mentor. The support I received from the Supervisors and Ops Techs helped me progress quickly by teaching me on the job. They showed me everything, from basic tasks to complex procedures, which allowed me to adapt and take on extra responsibilities in a short period of time. Even now, colleagues frequently involve me in their jobs so I am continuously learning. ?

What's the best thing about working on the Anasuria FPSO?

The people make all the difference; without them, the asset just wouldn’t be the same. We are a close crew, and keep each other motivated throughout each trip. It feels like a family away from home.

What are you most looking forward to in your role on Anasuria FPSO?

I am looking forward to the upcoming shutdown on the FPSO. This will be my first experience of a shutdown as a fully qualified Operations Technician (during the last one, I was still a Trainee). Even though I am qualified, every day is a learning opportunity, and I am excited to learn new things and pick up new skills from the team during the shutdown. I am also looking forward to starting my new qualification; I have just secured funding for completing an HNC in Chemical Engineering through Teeside University, where the overall degree (eventually) will be BEng Hons Chemical Engineering at Strathclyde University.?

FUN FIVE

Fun fact about you that we might not know?

I love cheese, all kinds of cheese (but only good cheese!). Brie and Gouda are my favourite.

Most commonly used emojis:

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What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

My own advice: no shots before 10pm on a night out!

What’s the last TV show or movie you watched that you really enjoyed?

Baby Reindeer.

If you had to be locked in an escape room with one other AOC employee, who would it be and why?

That would be awful! Do I have to choose one of them? …Probably Craig Mitchell because he is an all-round good egg and would provide a phenomenal amount of entertainment.