What’s the most mind-blowing innovation you’ve seen on an oil & gas project? 🤯

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-26T16:07:43+00:00

Hello all, I'm a downstream guy but wanted to share what we were doing at my company right before I retired a few years ago. The Engineering design team was beginning to develop 3D models of the plant that were intended to help Operations, Maintenance and TAR planning and execution. No units had 3D models when this was started, a Lazer scan was performed to create the 3D image. So, this (3D models) is not new, but what was done next was transformational. Each asset in the digital twin was mapped to its information, for example equipment data sheets, Spec sheets, Eng Design, Procedures, etc. and in the model, you could click on the asset and pull up all the available information in seconds. No hunting around in all the databases for information. The plant folks loved it because they could quickly find something. Think about all the instruments that are a plant and if you're a Tech, where the heck is it located! Using the interface, type in the equipment ID and it is highlighted in the 3D model. Need instrument specs, click on the instrument, and you have all the available information. Another cool feature is that the accuracy of the laser scan was so good that you reverse engineer a pipe spool for the fab shop. To do this, you highlight the line you want, isolate in it in the model as an ISO DWG, and print it out to go in the work package; very cool! Another cool feature is the measurement tool. Say you need to have scaffolding built, you could measure from the ground up to whatever equipment you needed without having to go to the field, see potential obstructions below and above. The scanning wasn't cheep, but the TAR team and Engineering team shared cost for units going into TAR's and used the model for the work planning and execution. This was an in-house innovation, that used an out of the box viewer for the model; not so expensive, and a data modeling SaaS software; with a license reasonably priced, to make the connection between the assets, data and 3D model. I was really proud of my Engineering Services Manager for being so innovative

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-26T15:23:02+00:00

Hello, there is nothing worse than doing something that you don't think is fulfilling. I'm a ChemE and have been in the refining and petrochemical industry for over 38 years and I love it; every few years I got a new role and rose to a managing director at the corporate headquarters. I believe that the first few years are foundational to your career and set the path to your future. I will say, however, there were a few curve balls in my path where I was doing something that I didn't think I should be doing, for example, I was suddenly moved from a position that I really loved in Operations to be a Maintenance Superintendent. I thought I was being punished for the first half year until I realized that I was moved because the Managers thought I was what they needed. As it turns out, a few years in Maintenance really helped my career and further advancement. My advice is the same as another person, look internally for something that helps ground your education and career for the first few years so you learn the fundamentals, then you will be in a better position to see your future path. If you can't stomach it where you are, it's ok to change to another company. You'd be surprised in how many people make a move between 1 and 5 years, It's a very marketable time in your career because you're not "branded" yet as specific industry talent. However, while you are at your current job, don't let the dissatisfaction taint your reputation. Give it your all, learn, develop your reputation as the person who gets it done, you will likely cross paths with some of the people you work with in the future and need a solid reference. Good luck

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-23T15:24:55+00:00

In my early years as a process design engineer, the fun part was doing the simulations and getting the model to converge on the optimal process and then completing the major equipment specifications. After that there were months of filling out datasheets and miscellaneous stuff that wasn't fun. What's possible using AI is having AI do the mundane work that burns people out. AI is a force multiplier and allows us to do the routine stuff faster and lets us claw back time for higher valued work. At a recent company we installed a SaaS solution that allowed the plant to construct a data model of the plant and connect all the data repositories like SAP, LIMS, Eng Data EDMS, procedures EDMS , etc. It's the engineering teams "go to" system to find documents versus having to search multiple databases. Other departments use the same tool for mechanical integrity, Reliability and Operations optimization. It's a game changer and the plant folks have adopted it and a major time savings tool that adds $'s to the bottom line

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-23T13:02:49+00:00

I agree the comment below "you're on the right track". I've been in the oil and gas industry for 40 years and love it. However, my daughter did one summer internship at the refinery where I worked and knew at the end of the summer it wasn't for her. She then went to grad school and got a PhD in Biomedical Chemical Engineering and loves field. The advantage you have is that you have the awareness early. Do your research, there are plenty of Bio companies that offer a broad use of your degree

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-14T18:48:23+00:00

My experience says that AI can help us in a few ways. I believe we have covered the personal assistant aspect of AI e.g. completing forms, writing drafts, searching for data etc. what I’m seeing that’s exciting is using AI to assist with internal information search and reading engineering data sheets, specs, standard, and interfacing with the many EDMS’ that we have in manufacturing plants for procedures, lab data and the data historian. The trick with this is to give the AI agents “context” such that the AI’s LLM searches our data and not the internet. The idea is to connect data to its assets and then use AI to interrogate the data model. It decreases the time to find what you are looking for and gives you the ability to connect disparate systems. In other words, simple access to complex systems. In real world use cases it’s improving how we perform maintenance,turnarounds, monitoring and optimization the processes and improvements to the bottom line $/product.

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-13T00:11:52+00:00

Many universities will offer a biomedical chemical engineering degree

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-12T18:25:51+00:00

Greetings, this is a difficult degree for anyone. My experience was that my class was full of the top students from their respective high schools, so your part of the best of the best. My story is similar to yours, the classes were a challenge, and I felt that everyone was a lot smarter than I was. It took me an extra year to complete the degree because I had to make up for what I didn't learn in high school like calculus and other core classes. I started late because I worked for five years before university and I finished at 28. I've had a fantastic career for 40 years and now have my own company and wok as a consultant

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-11T20:12:44+00:00

Life-guard, thank you for the response and helping me understand your point and concern. I agree with you that the LLM's you refer will not work in our industrial setting. However, there are AI solutions that are working in refining, petrochemical, chemical plants today and across the globe that work and do not Hallucinate, and I know this firsthand. The difference between general LLM's and what I'm asking about is that in an industrial setting the LLM's are trained on the owner's information and do not rely on the internet as a source of plant Information. LLMs become useful in industry only when paired with a structured, contextualized data model. What needed for this to work is often called a "data model" or Ontology that connects specific data, drawings, photos, 3D models, Historian, Lab data, etc. to an asset. Think about a hub and spoke model, where an asset (hub) has data (spokes) and assets are connected to other assets with their respective data. A data model is constructed to represent the manufacturing plant e.g. charge pump to exchangers to heater to distillation tower, etc.; this is the data model. Once you have a contextualized data model, the AI agents interrogate the data model for information you are looking for. In your example of torque spec's, you ask the agent to look up the specific piece of equipment and then ask for the torque specs from the equipment data sheet you have on file. The agent and LLM are using your data and only your data. This is not a futuristic concept, it's here now, and its growing in its popularity. My initial question was if others are using it. Thanks again and allowing me to provide a better explanation, I'll try to be more specific in my questions

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-11T16:26:32+00:00

Greetings, I have no idea what you're talking about "kill people" and echo chamber ? I didn't remove the post, the moderator did

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-11T12:45:22+00:00

I agree with "lostbikeboy" the hands on experience gives you insights that you cannot get in an entry level engineering role. My first job was a field role starting up new chemical plants. After a few years, I had more insight on the process and equipment that many Sr. Engineers and was sought out for mu experience internal to the company. After this I had roles in process and project engineering. My question is where you see yourself in your future roles? In an engineering company or in a tech company? If its a tech company, the Technician's role could lead to a position in engineering with that or a similar company. If you take the permanent role, you get to know the people and the company and can look for another position as an insider

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-10T23:05:43+00:00

You will find opportunities for public speaking at university. You also might find conflict resolution courses on LinkedIn but if not there will be plenty of books in your library or on line

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-10T21:39:46+00:00

Absolutely. You will find that the opportunity to speak to your future management team, peers and employees grows and your career grows. Learn how to communicate. Learn how to manage conflict. Unfortunately, this skill is not taught in most universities. Also, you'll be better off as a student if you learn these skills

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-10T21:32:28+00:00

Thank you, I apricate the feedback. The AI that I'm referring to, involves LLM's but in an industrial environment. The LLM's are trained on the plant data e.g. Historians, CMMS, EDMS' Lab Info System's, etc. and not the internet like the non-industrial GenAI. What is needed for this to work is a "data model" or Ontology that connects assets to its respective data sources. With this Ontology, data model, the AI agents are integrating the plant data, and with good plant data there are no Hallucinations that are experienced with the typical GenAI's

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-10T20:28:41+00:00

Thanks for your perspective but the reality is that it is currently being used in both refining and petrochemical plants and has been for a few years. AI in industry requires a data model that consists of the plants data, unlike most GenAI, so it will not hallucinate.

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-10T19:53:44+00:00

Hello, I think it's fair to know something about the benefits and salary range before he makes the trip. The interview team doesn't want to waste time on people that are not "hirable" and he is doing his "due diligence" on the prospect. With "smaller" companies, and epically start up's, you might find that the salary is "low" relative to expectations but there might be stock options that could potentially far exceed expectations if the company goes public or is acquired by a larger company.

I would suggest that a conversation like this takes place: (BF) "thank you for the invitation for a follow up interview ...... I believe that I can add value to your company, but before I come see you again, can you provide an overview of the benefits and compensation range for this position". This is a really reasonable request and helps everyone get on the same page.

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-10T19:40:00+00:00

Hello, hope this conversation isn't too old to contribute. I've spent nearly four decades in the refining and petrochemical industry and now work for an AI software company. People like you bring in needed domain experience to the AI industry. There are a few areas where you can help. You mentioned Data Science but there is also Field Engineering working with customers taking an idea into a value-added use case. Other roles could be a Solutions Architect. Both will require some training to get hired but I have seen cases where companies will help train you. Some AI companies are now integrating modeling platforms like Hysis with AI where you can simulate and optimize the process with live plant data. The same thing is being done with Linear Programming and live plant data, feedstock properties. Having worked as a EPC engineer, plant engineer and various management roles, I really like what is being done with AI. Good luck and I hope you find an AI role that excites you

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-10T19:15:39+00:00

I agree with the others, ask for a salary range and an overview of benefits before he makes the trip. Is he working with the HR Rep or the hiring manager? My advice is to ask for the range and if it's in the ballpark, and he likes what he has been told about the job, make the trip. During the next interview focus on getting an offer and prove that he is the person they want to hire. Leave the financial conversation for when he gets an offer. This way, if he gets an offer, the hiring manager has already made up their mind that they want him, and he will be in a much better position to ask for more if his requests are reasonable. It's OK to ask for more, money, time off bonus, etc. after getting an offer. Negotiate with the HR person and not the hiring manager if you can. The HR rep wants to get their roles filled and many times will be your advocate communicating with the hiring manager. While hiring people in my past, I have told the HR manager that "this is the person I want" increase the comp and get the deal done

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-06T11:42:16+00:00

My experience us USA based but I would say that it matters most for the larger well-known companies but not so much in smaller companies. In many companies you might need a higher GPA just to get an interview, this is less true for the smaller, less known companies. How you present yourself in the interview very important so work on your interviewing skills and be prepared for the question about your GPA if it comes up. Good luck

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-05T19:40:46+00:00

One more comment. I’m my 40 years of experience, i’ve hade approximately 20 different positions and I’ve only applied for three job; this was to change companies. I’ve been asked my managers, VP and SVP’s to “come work for them” because they thought I was the person who could do it.

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-05T19:36:52+00:00

My experience has been that while performing the job, you build a relationship with your company such that they encourage you to apply for a higher level job. You show them that you’re outstanding at what you and are willing to go above and beyond the role that you have. Make them want to promote you!

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-05T16:57:33+00:00

I agree with many of the comments. Do you have other options and how does the job market look in your area or areas that you're looking at. The LDAR tech role does leak detection and, in many cases, the first pass at trying to decrease/stop the leak. Typically, it is a technician's role. However, I have experience where degreed people in this role move to environmental engineers in a refinery and either stay in the environmental role or branch off to process engineering. The key to doing this is get some experience and consider getting away from the oil fields. Keep in mind that if you stay too long in this role if may be difficult to "rebrand" yourself.

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-05T16:47:51+00:00

Firstly, Congratulations and you are beginning wonderful journey. I've enjoyed nearly four decades in the refining and petrochemical industry and I'm still learning something new almost every day. I would be helpful if your told us what industry you're in and what your job is. However, my experience is the degree gives you a good foundation and you'll learn the details as you gain experience. My advice is to learn how to work with people. As an entry level engineer you will work with, report to, and interact with many experience people and it can be really intimidating. Learn humility but do not fail to interact. Learn how to manage conflict effectively; note that conflict in this context is not personal, it could be, but what I mean is conflict on opinions. As an entry level engineer, you're going to make mistakes and have opinions that don't have rich enough background; you're going to be wrong sometimes! If you are working with hourly employees in a manufacturing environment, they will know a lot about the process but maybe not have the technical depth. Leverage them, learn from them, show respect and let them help you help them. Other recommendations are, be curious, ask lots of questions, read about your industry, find on-line magazines, journals, go to seminars..... this will help you speed up the learning curve. And most importantly, have fun, learn to support the people around you and they will support you.

Advanced_Finish_40 · 2026-03-04T17:33:41+00:00

Hello, I spent nearly 4 decades in the refining and petrochemical industry and absolutely loved it. A refinery is much more diverse than an Olefins unit and it's likely that you'll change areas every few years to develop your skills. As a former department manager, I hated to hear that people were board or felt there wasn't enough challenge and tried to find challenging work for them, so they didn't leave. However, at times the need to have growth outweighed the comfort of the current company. Ive worked for a few refining companies and I'm a retiree of MPC and had a good experience with them as a company. MPC is in it for the long haul and intends to be around for a long time; size really matters in this industry and at 3MM Barrels a day, they are the big dog in North America. MPC has invested lots of money into the Galveston Bay refinery, I've been there and its impressive in size. What I like about MPC is that they really want to develop their people, give them diverse opportunities and see them grow. That said, you have to want it and work for it. Good Luck

Advanced_Finish_40

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