"Getting Energized" in Malaysia

Written by Mauricio Orozco Wednesday, 14 April 2010 06:00

No doubt about it. I “got energized.” In addition to fabulous weather, tasty food and wonderful people, my experience attending the 6^th Getenergy Exploration & Production Learning Arena and Exchange Program in Kuala Lumpur (March 23 & 24) provided excellent insight into training for the oil and gas industry worldwide.

This year’s themes focused on exploring the education and training requirements and developments for upstream business, as well as international good practices and innovation in education and training. A handful of us SAIT representatives had the opportunity to connect in a unique informal setting with people from over 40 countries representing national oil and gas companies, international oil and gas companies, governments, universities, and training providers.

Various forums and discussions highlighted the challenges that industry is facing. We heard about the need for higher quality training and development products and services, including curriculum. Many companies facing demographic shifts and/or workforce nationalization programs have placed a heightened focus on training and development initiatives for not only professional occupations such as engineers, geologists and geophysicists, but are also turning their attention to operations and maintenance technicians. They are looking for technical training that supports the development of a safe, skilled workforce across their operations.

I recommend this unique event for building connections and lasting relationships between training, education and oil and gas. There is no other event out there like it.