In regards to the current oil and gas downturn, and as a “younger” drilling/completions engineer, our industry faces an absence of experienced advice. The same lack of oil and gas experience was seen in the early 80’s, the early-mid 90’s, felt at the end of the first decade in our new millennia, and in the previous century - and we assume our counterparts were also absent in that century. No harm no foul, right boss man?
Quick disclaimer regarding the word, “younger:” (45+50)/2 is 47.5 years of experience vs. (30+32+26)/3 is 29.3 and that makes this particular group an average age of 36.6 years of age meaning everyone below 37 is the “younger” engineer (but in most cases now, the majority).
The below chart illustrates just how unpredictable the cost of oil (present livelihood) is and how it will forever be unpredictable as the supply/demand, geo-political influence, disease, industrial revolution, war, and, finally, public support continues to fluctuate constantly throughout our future.
While all the negative thoughts can flood ones mind in times of dire and distress, our Oil and Gas veterans (55+ community – meaning they were most likely an early part of the original 80’s downturn and early-mid 90’s) continue to preach patience and opportunity.
The word, patience, yields little emotion in the majority of our generation and others generations, as it is a word that brings very minimal positive feelings if any whatsoever except realization.
Now, opportunity, that word alone brings feelings of liberty, justice, and our pursuit of happiness. Frankly, that word is not found in our constitution, however, it is what we all desire, the chance to succeed. Since this blog is leaning towards referencing our great past, Mark Twain would like to chime in,
“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain
As for our veterans of the O & G industry, of whom in most cases are highly successful business leaders, it may be time to heed their advice. Their advice is generalized in the following:
Be patient and bask in the opportunity, as those that come through this unscathed will lead the way for decades in growing our domestic oil and gas industry. The chance of leading the charge and getting back on the wave when it the tide grows will only show up once, maybe twice in your career, and capitalizing on this opportunity is one way to achieve your dreams through your oil and gas career. Be a leader, show your willingness to go above and beyond, and make sure you are heard.
I am going to leave it at that; these guys and gals have been there and done that. Experience and wisdom are not realized in days, but rather lifetimes.
Find out how we plan to connect oilfield operators and service providers here:
