UNSW students visit Industry and Asia-Pacific Oil and Gas Conference in Perth

A group of nine students from UNSW visited Perth on a field trip, organized by the SPE UNSW student chapter. The trip included a visit to Chevron's headquarters, the Asia-Pacific Oil and Gas Conference, and a tour of SLB’s base of operations, offering students valuable networking and career opportunities.

The trip began with a visit to Chevron, the largest natural gas resource holder in Australia, where Gas Supply Strategy Lead Callie Butler led a tour. Students attended presentations from Chevron professionals on the company’s operations in Australia, including the Gorgon and Wheatstone Projects. They then participated in a networking session with Chevron employees, followed by a panel discussion and Q&A with three company professionals. The session provided insights into the day-to-day tasks of employees and the challenges they face in real-life petroleum projects.

From 15 to 17 October, the students attended the Asia-Pacific Oil and Gas Conference, which featured technical sessions and panel discussions. The technical sessions focused on the latest research and technology being developed and applied in Australian and international operations by industry and academia.

The panel discussions focused on building a future for oil and gas, with a major emphasis on the energy transition. Students had the opportunity to discuss challenges and opportunities in the Australian and international oil and gas industry with some of the leading figureheads in the sector.

Overall, the conference provided a fantastic opportunity for students to engage with industry leaders and professionals, including 2024 SPE President Terry Palish.

On October 18, the group visited SLB's base of operations. SLB is one of the world’s leading oilfield service and technology companies, known for advanced subsurface solutions and data-driven innovation. Recently, SLB has expanded its focus to the energy transition, investing in sustainable technologies like carbon capture, geothermal energy, and clean hydrogen to reduce environmental impact and lead in the future of energy.

Students were shown various equipment and technologies such as wireline logging units, coiled tubing apparatus, Rotary Steerable System (RSS) drill bits, and Measurement While Drilling (MWD) equipment.

SLB’s Talent Acquisition Manager, Louise Flux, and two engineers spoke about the incredible places their careers at SLB have taken them. Students also learned about the company's early entry pathways available both in Australia and internationally.

Students visited the SLB base of operations

About UNSW SPE Student Chapter

The UNSW Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Student Chapter is a student-run organisation that connects UNSW students with the petroleum engineering industry through events, networking, and career development opportunities.