A new and highly innovative approach to the training and career development for Drilling/Well Engineers has been developed by a North Sea Drilling Contractor's Well Engineering Group.

The paper, presented in the manner of a case history will track the development of the scheme since it's initial conception in 1991 with emphasis on the current scheme as it is now implemented. Special emphasis will be directed to the areas of "Competency" and "Professional Qualifications" that are unique from the perspective of a Contractor Company working in the current era of Lead Contractor, Alliances, Partnering and or Integrated Services.

The Program, 5 years in duration covers not only the technical training needed for the development of technically competent drilling/well engineers but emphasis is also placed on the development of business and interpersonal skills that are or will be needed by Drilling/Well Engineers working in the Oil & Gas Business into 21st Century.

The issue of and gaining of accreditation for the training program by UK Professional Engineering Organizations (Institute of Mechanical Engineers & Institute of Mining & Metallurgy) will be discussed in light of the requirements of these organizations for the professional development of young engineers today to become leaders of the industry into the next century.

Keywords:
drilling operation, drilling fluid management & disposal, outsourced service era, drilling fluids and materials, Training Well Engineer, Upstream Oil & Gas
Subjects:
Drilling Operations, Drilling Fluids and Materials, Professionalism, Training, and Education, Drilling fluid management & disposal
Copyright 1997, SPE/IADC Drilling Conference
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