The 2018 Offshore Achievement Awards (OAA) is off to a promising start following its launch at Offshore Europe 2017 in Aberdeen.
The annual awards, organized and hosted by the Society of Petroleum Engineers Aberdeen Section (SPE Aberdeen), was launched 5 September by Ian Phillips, Chairman of SPE Aberdeen and Donald Taylor, Managing Director at principal sponsor, TAQA. The launch took place at the exhibition stand of the Oil & Gas Technology Centre (OGTC), sponsor of this year’s Emerging Technology Award.
Speaking at the launch, Ian Phillips said: “Celebrating success, innovative thinking and great accomplishments in what continues to be a challenging climate is more important than ever. We’re looking forward to sharing the stories of the inspirational work that continues to happen in our industry.
“The awards highlight excellence and serve as a prestigious platform for those operating in the oil and gas and renewables sectors. I would urge both companies and individuals to start thinking about their award entries, and allow us to shine a spotlight on their success.”
As principal sponsor of the event since 2012, TAQA has been an incredible ambassador for the awards providing financial support, judging categories and promoting the event, as well as being instrumental to the success of the annual Gray’s School of Art OAA Trophy competition.
Managing Director Donald Taylor said: “The SPE’s work in promoting the innovation and creativity of the oil and gas and renewables industries, and their focus in nurturing young people’s interest in STEM subjects, is key to why we continue to support the OAAs.
“Despite the challenges our industry is facing, many individuals and companies continue to achieve remarkable things. It is vital to highlight and celebrate these successes through events such as the OAAs. Individuals and companies pushing themselves to achieve the very best, is how we will ensure the future of our industry and continue to provide great opportunities for the next generation.”
Opening for entries on Monday, 2 October, categories will continue to celebrate both company successes and individual achievements, covering a wide variety of topics including innovation, collaboration and business growth. In particular, the Young Professional category continues to grow in popularity with 2018 seeing the return of the Young Professional interviews. This process involves an initial shortlist of up to six candidates being interviewed by OAA judges and subsequently being whittled down to three finalists.
In its first year sponsoring an award at the OAAs, industry-led research and knowledge organization the Oil & Gas Technology Centre (OGTC) is a welcome addition to the line-up.
Colette Cohen, Chief Executive of OGTC, said: "We’re delighted to sponsor the Emerging Technology award. Developing and deploying new technology is crucial if we are to unlock the full potential of the North Sea and create a culture of innovation in North-East Scotland. The OAAs are a great opportunity for technology providers to promote their solutions, and potentially open doors for funding and field trials.”
Entries from UK-registered companies operating within the renewables or oil and gas industries will open on Monday, 2 October 2017, with the ceremony taking place at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre on Thursday 22 March, 2018. A full list of categories and criteria is available.
