The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers Matrix · ... The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers ... as a working knowledge of the foundations of petroleum

Webinar | The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers Matrix | 26 November 2015

Tom BLASINGAMEPetroleum Engineering — Texas A&M University

College Station, TX 77843-3116 (USA)+1.979.255.8808 — [email protected]

The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers Matrix

Webinar — 26 November 2015The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers Matrix

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Orientation: The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers MatrixOrigin:●This was an SPE Talent Council initiative (2009-2011).●The goal was to create a broad inventory of Petroleum Engineering skills.●Approach was to use a legacy ABET-type of skills inventory:

http://www.abet.org/accreditation/●Used a blind survey for "required," "valued," or "not required" assessment.●SPE staff coalesced the results into a comprehensive report.●SPE published the results in the September 2011 edition of the JPT (p. 94):

http://www.spe.org/jpt/pdf/archives/2011-09.pdf (must have SPE login)●Supporting documents at:

www.spe.org/training/docs/graduating_matrix.pdf (no login required)Development of the Graduating Engineers Matrix:

The matrix was constructed from an exhaustive review of industrial andacademic sources, as well as using input from expert-level colleagues in in-dustry. In particular, university curricula and learning outcomes were compiledaround the knowledge sets in general engineering and various technicaldisciplines within petroleum engineering. In addition, targeted personnel inindustry were asked to provide technical knowledge sets in their area ofexpertise which they believe should be required, valued, or not required of newpetroleum engineering graduates. SPE staff and resources were then utilized inproducing the survey and tabulating the results.

Status:●This work is currently "inactive," but stands as a guidance document.

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Introduction: The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers MatrixA matrix of "technical knowledge sets" was created using data from numerousuniversities, where particular attention was placed on knowledge outcomes.These technical knowledge sets were used to create a survey that was sent to awide variety of companies in the E&P sector (integrated oil companies (IOC's),national oil companies, (NOC's), and service/technology providers. Companieswere asked to rank each knowledge set as follows:●"Required" (indispensable). The basic knowledge that companies see as a

foundation technology knowledge set for newly hired petroleum engineeringgraduates.

●"Valued" (desired, but not necessary). The technical knowledge set that, whilenot required of new hires, it is none-the-less valued by employers.

●"Not required" (not necessary or not applicable). The technical knowledge setthat is NOT required by industry (or is not applicable) with regard newly hiredpetroleum engineering graduates.

The long-term objective of the SPE Graduate Technical Knowledge Matrix is thatthis document serve as a reference tool for industry, academia, and students.The matrix is not meant to be definitive with reference to curriculum criteria,entry-level hiring requirements, or student assessment — nor should the matrixis be seen as any component of the accreditation process for assessing univer-sity programs in Petroleum Engineering. The matrix as it exists today is simply amechanism to gather information and to disseminate reference points for the useand benefit of industry, academia, and students.

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Survey: The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers MatrixConduct of the Survey: The SPE Talent Council charged a subcommittee formedfrom a diversified group of participants from industry and academia for thiseffort. It was recognized that the matrix would need to be a "living" document(i.e., not a static set of criteria). As such processes have been implemented toensure continued updating, revision, and resurveying.The survey was created and sent to 109 companies (including international andnational oil companies, as well as mid-size companies and companies in theservice sector). The participation rate was approximately 51 percent, whichstands to validate the results in the survey.

Interpretation of the Survey: The (high) survey response for the SPE GraduateTechnical Knowledge Matrix suggests that the E&P sector of the petroleumindustry assigns essential value to specific technical knowledge sets forpetroleum engineering graduates. In particular, it is absolutely clear thatgraduates in petroleum engineering must have a solid foundation in breadthknowledge and engineering skill sets.The survey responses clearly reflect a desire for graduates in petroleum engi-neering to have a hands-on knowledge of field practices and operations, as wellas a working knowledge of the foundations of petroleum engineering — drilling,production, and reservoir engineering — and geoscience, economics, technicalwriting and technical presentations.

Slide — 4


Summary: The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers MatrixSPE Graduate Technical Knowledge Matrix●Based on the perception of a need to define specific skills that graduates

should possess, the SPE Talent Council conducted a comprehensive study ofuniversity curricula and industrial expectations regarding the requiredtechnical knowledge expected of a graduating engineer.

●A matrix of "technical knowledge sets" was created using data fromnumerous universities, where particular attention was placed on knowledgeoutcomes (i.e., skills).

Objectives — SPE Graduate Technical Knowledge Matrix●The matrix should be used as a "standardization" or reference tool for in-

dustry, academia, and students.●The matrix is not meant to be definitive with reference to curriculum criteria,

entry-level hiring requirements, or student assessment.●The matrix is simply a mechanism to gather information for the use and

benefit of industry, academia, and students regarding expectations in terms ofskills and capabilities.

Recommendations — SPE Graduate Technical Knowledge Matrix●The matrix can (and should) be used as a base guide for Petroleum Engi-

neering skills expected by employers.●The matrix should be used by students and recent graduates for self-

assessment in career management for managing their skills inventory.●The matrix should evolve to reflect current needs and trends, but foun-

dational components should not be changed without the consensus ofindustry and academia.

Slide — 5


Knowledge Topics: [Mathematics/Problem-Solving/Communication]Task Knowledge:●Almost all (97.7%) respondents indicated that an ability to apply knowledge of

mathematics, science, and engineering is required for entry-level engineers.●About nine out of ten (88.4%) believe an ability to identify, formulate, and

solve engineering problems is required.●More than three out of four indicated that the ability to communicate

effectively (76.6%) and understanding of professional and ethical respon-sibility (76.6%) is required to be successful, while about three-fourths alsothink that the ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineeringtools necessary for engineering practice (74.4%) is critical.

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Summary Comment:●Foundation knowledge, problem-solving, and communications are essential.


Knowledge Topics: [General Petroleum Engineering]General Petroleum Engineering:●Almost nine out of 10 respondents (87.2%) indicated that the ability to

describe and define reservoir volume is a critical skill for entry-level petro-leum engineers.

●More than eight out of ten participants indicated that an ability to describeflow in porous media (84.6%); describe material balance concepts (84.6%) andto calculate subsurface pressure and temperature given gradients are man-datory skills for entry-level professionals.

●About nine-tenths indicated that describing and defining types of porosityand demonstrating knowledge of how and why porosity varies (89.5%); andapplying unit conversion factors (89.5%) are vital skills.

●About two-thirds of the respondents (63.4%) believe that the ability to cal-culate fluid pressure losses starting at the reservoir, following the fluid up thewell and through basic production systems is a required skill.

●Almost six out of ten respondents indicated that knowledge of the effects ofproduction rate and fluid type and how these influence friction losses intubulars (58.5%), the ability to describe the information available from hands-on tests with completion and produced fluids (density, viscosity, fluid losscontrol, fluid-fluid reactions, fluid-rock reactions, etc.), to know why these areimportant and how these are used in production engineering (56.1%) arerequired skills.

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Summary Comment:●Basic Petroleum Engineering calculations are required of all engineers.


Knowledge Topics: [Drilling]Drilling Completions/Fluids:●More than three out of four participants (77.1%) think that knowing the

purpose of bentonite, barite, and other common mud additives are requiredskills.

●Two-thirds (65.7%) indicated that being able to describe how temperaturechange affects brine density and bottomhole pressure are vital skills.

Drilling Flow Systems:●Almost three out of four (74.3%) respondents believe that the ability to

calculate the hydrostatic pressure of a single fluid column, as well as dualgradient fluid systems is required, almost three-quarters (71.4%) think that theability to calculate frictional pressures losses in pipe are essential.

●About two-thirds of respondents (62.9%) indicated that ability to plot thepressure profile for a wellbore under both static and non-static conditions is acritical skill for entry-level engineers.

Drilling Equipment:●Three-fourths of those surveyed (73.5%) think that petroleum engineers must

be able to discuss equipment used to drill a well — bit, drill collars, stabili-zers, drill pipe, Kelly, and the standpipe; and to identify different types of bits.

●About two-thirds of the participants indicated that the ability to describe kickdetection tests, shut-in procedures, routine kill methods (drillers method andwait and weight method) (64.7%); being able to identify and define the parts ofa drilling rig (64.7%) and to be able to identify and define drilling rig systems(61.8%) are all critical skills for engineers entering the field.

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Summary Comment:●Drilling-related skills are seen as essential by >2/3 of the reviewers.


Knowledge Topics: [Well Completions]Well Completions:●About four out of five respondents (79.4%) indicated that young engineers

must be able to calculate displacement of tubular, and volumes in pipe andannular spaces, and to describe an open hole and a cased hole, and state theadvantages/disadvantages of each (79.4%).

●Approximately three-fourths of the participants (76.6%) judged that describingthe difference between a full string and a liner is a critical skill.

●Almost three out of four (74.3%) indicated that new engineers must be able todescribe the basic tubular strings of a well (conductor, surface, production)and describe the common methods of perforating (shaped charge or "jet",abrasive perforating, mechanical, bullet, etc.) (74.3%).

Slide — 9

Summary Comments:●Well completions skills are seen as required by >3/4 of the reviewers.


Knowledge Topics: [Rock and Rock-Fluid Properties]Describe and Calculate Basic Rock Properties:●Almost nine out of ten (86.2%) agree that engineers must be able to define

porosity, rock compressibility, fluid saturation, boundary tension, wettability,capillary pressure, resistivity, resistivity factor, resistivity index, saturationexponent, and cementation factor.

Calculate Permeability using Darcy's Law:●About four out of five (79.3%) participants indicated that engineers must be

able to discuss Darcy's Experiment.●About two-thirds of participants (65.5%) noted that engineers must be able to

reproduce the differential form of the Darcy equation and explain its meaning.Describe and Use Effective and Relative Permeability:●More than 8 of 10 respondents (82.8%) think that engineers must be capable

of defining effective permeability and relative permeability.●Almost two-thirds (62.1%) believe that new engineers must be able to repro-

duce typical relative permeability curves and show effect of saturation historyon relative permeability.

Describe and Use 3-Phase Relative Permeability:●More than half of participants (55.2%) believe that engineers must be able to

describe 3-phase flow in reservoir rock.

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Summary Comments:●Knowledge of rock and rock-fluid properties is critical.


Knowledge Topics: [Well Logging]Interpretation of Common Open Hole Well Logs:●About two-thirds (65.5%) believe that engineers must be able to estimate

water resistivity and saturation with a Pickett plot.●More than six out of 10 (62.1%) believe that entry-level engineers must be able

to estimate saturation using Archie's laws in clean formations.Perform Basic Wireline Log Evaluations:●Just over half (51.7%) indicated that entry-level engineers must display log

data results on analyses and display and interpret data.Integration of Wireline Logging Data with Basic Core Data:●Almost six out of ten participants (58.6%) would require that new engineers be

able to list benefits and problems of integrating log and core data.

Slide — 11

Summary Comments:●Majority of reviewers view well logging skills very important.


Knowledge Topics: [Well Performance]Methods for Quantifying Well Performance:●More than eight out of 10 (84.4%) responded that young engineers should be

able to explain the relationships between porosity and permeability and howthese properties influence the flow of fluids in reservoir, while 81.3% requirethe ability to describe simple reservoir fluids (i.e., black oils and dry gases).

●About seven out of 10 participants (71.9%) indicated that entry-level engineersmust be able to explain how to derive and apply the material balance relationfor a slightly compressible liquid (oil) system as well as the material balancerelation for a dry gas system. 68.8% said they must be able to describe utilizethe "skin factor" concept derived from steady-state flow to represent damageor stimulation (including the apparent wellbore radius concept).

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Summary Comments:●3/4 or greater fraction of reviewers see well performance skills as critical.


Knowledge Topics: [Well Test/Production Analysis]Applied Well Test Analysis: ("Pressure Transient Analysis" (PTA))●Almost seven out of 10 respondents (68.8%) require that engineers be able to

construct and interpret a plot of pressure versus time to establish theparameters related to wellbore storage behavior (i.e., the "early time" plot) .

●Almost two out of three (65.6%) of participants indicated that engineers mustbe able to construct and interpret a plot of pressure versus the logarithm oftime to establish the parameters related to radial flow behavior (i.e., the"semilog" plot).

●An equal percentage indicate that engineers must be able to construct andinterpret a plot of the logarithm of pressure drop and pressure drop derivativeversus the logarithm of time to establish the parameters related to wellborestorage, radial flow, and vertical fracture behavior (i.e., the "log-log" plot).

Apply Production Data Analysis: (Production or "Rate Transient Analysis" (RTA))●More than three out of four (76.6%) of respondents mandate that new engi-

neers must be capable of estimating the "recoverable reserves" for an oil orgas well using plots of rate versus time (semilog rate format) and rate versuscumulative production.

●Six out of ten (60.0%) identify the ability to use decline type curves to analyzeproduction data from an unfractured or hydraulically fractured oil of gas well– where these type curves illustrate both transient and boundary dominatedflow behavior as a required skill.

Slide — 13

Summary Comments:●3/4 fraction of reviewers rank PTA and RTA skills as important.


Knowledge Topics: [Production/Operations]Production/Operations:●More than three out of four (76.9%) of those surveyed believe that engineers

must have a basic understanding of measurement of produced fluids and gasand almost three out of four (73.1%) said they must be able to describecommon damage mechanisms that cause formation damage (fill, emulsions,scale, paraffing, asphaltenes, hydrates, etc.) and how to prevent and removethe damage.

●About seven out of ten (69.2%) think that they must be able to describe wheresecondary recovery methods are most applicable, describe gas and waterconing principles, control methods, and recovery calculation methods (69.2%)and describe the flow regimes for a well in natural flow (69.2%).

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Summary Comments:●Approximately 3/4 of the reviewers view production operations as essential.


Knowledge Topics: [Economics/Uncertainty/Social Responsibility]Perform Basic Cash Flow Analysis for Petroleum Projects:●Almost nine out of 10 respondents (86.2%) think that engineers must be able

to explain the concepts of interest, present value, future value and time valueof money.

●About four out of five (79.3%) believe that engineers must be able to constructa cash flow stream for a petroleum project, including calculation of taxes.

●Three out of four (75.9%) agree that engineers must be able to determine themost attractive projects from a group of acceptable projects using standardinvestment metrics.

Evaluation of Uncertainty in Reserve Estimates and Economic Appraisal:●Six out of 10 participants (60.7%) responded that engineers are required to be

able to apply basic probability theory to evaluate uncertainty in petroleumprojects and perform sensitivity analyses and risk adjustment calculationsand recognize or minimize the risk inherent in a project (60.7%).

Setting Personal Career and Financial Goals :●Almost two out of three (64.3%) indicated that engineers must be able to set

personal career goals.Incorporate Social, Political, Cultural, and Environmental Factors :●Half of respondents (50%) think it is required of engineers that they be able to

incorporate social, political, cultural, and environmental factors into decisionmaking.

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Summary Comments:●Vast majority of reviewers view economics and uncertainty skills as critical.


Knowledge Topics: [Reserves]Categorize Petroleum Reserves and Estimate Proved Reserves:●About two-thirds of respondents (65.5%) think that engineers must be able to

forecast future production rates vs. time using decline curve methods.●More than six out of 10 believe that engineers must be able to estimate

reserves using volumetric and decline curve methods, and be able to identifysources of uncertainty in these calculations (62.1%) and summarize reservecategories as defined by the SPE.

State the Fundamental Forms of Ownership of Petroleum Resources:●Just over four out of 10 (41.4%) participants think that engineers must be able

to compute expenses and revenue interest in petroleum properties.

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Summary Comments:●Approximately 2/3 of reviewers rank reserves skills as important.


Closure: The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers MatrixMotivation:●Technical Knowledge Matrix created by the SPE Talent Council 2009-2011.●Provides a broad inventory of Petroleum Engineering skills.●Document serves as a guidance/reference document.

Method:●Used a blind survey for "required," "valued," or "not required" assessment.●SPE staff coalesced the results into a comprehensive report.●SPE published the results in the September 2011 edition of the JPT (p. 94).

Results:●Mathematics & problem-solving viewed as critical by 90-98% of reviewers.●Communications skills viewed as essential by >75% of reviewers.●Basic petroleum engineering skills viewed as critical by 60-90% of reviewers.●Drilling skills seen as essential by 65-75% of reviewers.●Well completions skills viewed as essential by >75% of reviewers.●Basic rock properties seen as important by 55-85% of reviewers.●Well logging skills seen as relevant by 52-66% of reviewers.●Well performance/PTA/RTA skills seen as important by 66-85% of reviewers.●Production operations skills seen as important by 69-77% of reviewers.●Cash flow/economics seen as essential by 76-86% of reviewers.●Petroleum reserves seen as important by 62-66% of reviewers.

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Definitions:ABET = Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (http://www.abet.org/)JPT = Journal of Petroleum Technology (SPE's primary magazine)SPE = Society of Petroleum Engineers (http://www.spe.org/)

Slide — 18


Tom BLASINGAMEPetroleum Engineering — Texas A&M University

College Station, TX 77843-3116 (USA)+1.979.255.8808 — [email protected]

The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers Matrix

End of Presentation

Webinar — 26 November 2015The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers Matrix

Slide — 19

The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers Matrix SPE Talent Council Tom Blasingame Introduction Based on the perception of a need to define specific skills that graduates should possess, the SPE Talent Council conducted a study of university curricula as well as industrial expectations regarding the technical knowledge of recent graduates in petroleum engineering. A matrix of "technical knowledge sets" was created using data from numerous universities, where particular attention was placed on knowledge outcomes. These technical knowledge sets were used to create a survey that was sent to a wide variety of of companies in the E&P sector (integrated oil companies (IOC's), national oil companies, (NOC's), and service/technology providers. Companies were asked to rank each knowledge set as follows:

● "Required" (indispensible), ● "Valued" (desired, but not necessary), or ● "Not required" (not necessary or not applicable).

The long-term objective of the SPE Graduate Technical Knowledge Matrix is that this serves as a reference tool for industry, academia, and students. The matrix is not meant to be definitive with reference to curriculum criteria, entry-level hiring requirements, or student self-assessment — nor should the matrix is be seen as any component of the accreditation process for assessing university programs in Petroleum Engineering. The matrix as it exists today is simply a mechanism to gather information and to disseminate reference points for the use and benefit of industry, academia, and students. Definitions The following defines classification of response in the initial survey and matrix:

● Required: The basic knowledge that companies see as a foundation technology knowledge set for newly hired petroleum engineering graduates

● Valued: The technical knowledge set that, while not required of new hires, it is none-the-less valued by employers.

● "Not Required: The technical knowledge set that is NOT required by industry (or is not applicable) with regard newly hired petroleum engineering graduates.

Development Principles The matrix was constructed from an exhaustive review of industrial and academic sources, as well as using input from expert-level colleagues in industry. In particular, university curricula and learning outcomes were compiled around the knowledge sets in general engineering and various technical disciplines within petroleum engineering. In addition, targeted personnel in industry were asked to provide technical knowledge sets in their area of expertise which they believe should be required, valued, or not required of new petroleum engineering graduates. SPE staff and resources were then utilized in producing the survey and tabulating the results. Development Process The SPE Talent Council charged a subcommittee from a diversified group of participants from industry and academia for this effort. It was recognized that the matrix would need to be a "living" document (i.e., not a static set of criteria). As such processes have been implemented to ensure continued updating, revision, and resurveying.

A survey was created and sent to 109 companies (including international and national oil companies, as well as mid-size companies and companies in the service sector). The participation rate was approximately 51 percent, which stands to validate the results in the survey. Conclusions The survey response to the proposed SPE Graduate Technical Knowledge Matrix suggests that the E&P sector of the petroleum industry assigns essential value to specific technical knowledge sets for petroleum engineering graduates. In particular, it is absolutely clear that graduates in petroleum engineering must have a solid foundation in breadth knowledge and engineering skill sets.

The survey responses clearly reflect a desire for graduates in petroleum engineering to have a practical knowledge of field practices and operations, as well as a working knowledge of the foundations of petroleum engineering — drilling, production, and reservoir engineering — as well as geoscience, economics, technical writing and technical presentations.

Acknowledgements The SPE expresses its appreciation to those practicing engineers who participated in the construction and evaluation of the SPE Graduate Technical Knowledge Matrix.

23.3%

37.2%

39.5%

60.5%

62.8%

69.8%

72.1%

74.4%

76.7%

76.7%

88.4%

97.7%

62.8%

60.5%

58.1%

34.9%

30.2%

30.2%

23.3%

18.6%

23.3%

23.3%

11.6%

2.3%

14%

2.3%

2.3%

4.7%

7%

4.7%

7%

A knowledge of contemporary issues

The broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental & societal context

A recognition of the need for & an ability to engage in life-long learning

Able to deal with high level of uncertainty in definition & solution of petroleum reservoir problems.

Able to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, social, political, ethical,

health & safety, manufacturability & sustainability

Able to function on multidisciplinary teams

Able to design & conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data

Able to use the techniques, skills & modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice.

An understanding of professional & ethical responsibility

Able to communicate effectively

Able to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems

Able to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering

1: Knowledge Task REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

43.9%

48.8%

51.2%

56.1%

56.1%

63.4%

46.3%

46.3%

43.9%

41.5%

41.5%

36.6%

9.8%

4.9%

4.9%

2.4%

2.4%

Describe the systems analysis concept for optimization and backpressure techniques for monitoring well performance

Draw/describe entire well as self contained pressure vessel under expected dynamic & static conditions at all phases of life, demonstrate how mud, brine,

casing, cement, packers, tubing, wellhead & seals combine to make a pressure

Describe oil field vocabulary & familiarity with methods & materials used in producing & completing oil & gas wells

Describe the information available from hands-on tests with completion & produced fluids (density, viscosity, fluid loss control, fluid-fluid reactions, fluid-rock reactions, etc.), know why they are important & how they are used in production engineering

Demonstrate knowledge of the effects of production rate & fluid type & how they influence friction in tubulars

Calculate fluid pressure losses starting at the reservoir, following the fluid up the well and through basic production systems

2: General Petroleum Engineering REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

35.9%

56.4%

56.4%

59.0%

59.0%

61.5%

64.1%

66.7%

66.7%

66.7%

69.2%

69.2%

69.2%

71.8%

74.4%

74.4%

74.4%

76.9%

76.9%

79.5%

79.5%

84.6%

84.6%

84.6%

87.2%

53.8%

41%

38.5%

38.5%

38.5%

33.3%

30.8%

28.2%

30.8%

28.2%

23.1%

28.2%

23.1%

25.6%

20.5%

25.6%

23.1%

20.5%

20.5%

17.9%

20.5%

12.8%

12.8%

10.3%

10.3%

10.3%

2.6%

5.1%

2.6%

2.6%

5.1%

5.1%

5.1%

2.6%

5.1%

7.7%

2.6%

7.7%

2.6%

5.1%

2.6%

2.6%

2.6%

2.6%

0.0%

2.6%

2.6%

5.1%

2.6%

Explain system intensive & extensive property, & equilibrium state

Describe & define the wellbore environment

Define kelly bushing (KB), subsea (SS) & mudline (ML) references on logs

Describe the generalized 2-D form of Darcy’s equation

Describe & define absolute permeability & how permeability changes with flowing & stress conditions

Describe & define fluid saturation & irreducible fluid saturation

Describe & define mass density

Describe & define wellbore volume

Describe & define formation & water resistivity

Calculate wellbore volume

Describe difference between horizontal & vertical permeability & what causes difference in kh & kv values

Calculate porosity, permeability & fluid saturation given basic rock-fluid system data

Calculate & convert equations from one system to another

Describe & define geothermal gradient

Describe & define hydraulic & lithostatic pressure gradient

Describe & define hydrocarbon production rate

Define measured depth, true vertical depth & which is used in hydrostatic, friction & displacement calculations

Describe the relationship between interconnected and non-interconnected porosity and permeability

Describe Darcy’s experiment

Describe and define types of porosity and demonstrate knowledge of how and why porosity varies

Apply unit conversion factors

Describe flow in porous media

Describe material balance concepts

Calculate subsurface pressure and temperature given gradients

Describe and define reservoir volume

3: General Petroleum Engineering REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

37.1%

42.9%

45.7%

45.7%

51.4%

54.3%

54.3%

54.3%

54.3%

62.9%

65.7%

68.6%

77.1%

60%

51.4%

48.6%

45.7%

40%

40%

34.3%

34.3%

37.1%

28.6%

28.6%

25.7%

20%

2.9%

5.7%

5.7%

8.6%

8.6%

5.7%

11.4%

11.4%

8.6%

8.6%

5.7%

5.7%

2.9%

Able to measure solids content using retort

Able to use a low-pressure filter press to evaluate the wall building properties of a mud system

Able to measure fluid viscosity using a rotary viscometer and Marsh funnel

Able to perform routine diagnostic tests for mud contamination

Able to measure fluid density using a mud balance and know when to specify a pressurized mud balance

Apply selected & use appropriate rheology model: Newtonian, Power Law & Bingham Plastic

Able to increase or decrease the density of an existing mud system

Know the commonly used completion brines (weight chemical composition & crystallization point)

Evaluate & specify cement systems & when light weight & heavy weight cement systems are used

Define forward & reverse circulation & note examples of where each is used

Able to describe how changing temperature affects brine density & bottom hole pressure

Define equivalent circulating density & know how it affects bottom hole pressures when casing is run

Know the purpose of Bentonite, Barite & common mud additives

4: Drilling /Completion Fluids REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

48.6%

57.1%

57.1%

62.9%

71.4%

74.3%

48.6%

40%

37.1%

34.3%

28.6%

22.9%

2.9%

2.9%

5.7%

2.9%

2.9%

Ability to calculate accelerational pressure losses through a bit nozzle or choke

Ability to determine laminar/turbulent transition for Newtonian, Power Law and Bingham Plastic fluids

Knowledge of shoe tests, leakoff tests and flow check tests

Ability to plot the pressure profile in a wellbore under both static and non-static conditions

Ability to calculate frictional pressures losses in pipe and annuli for Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids

Ability to calculate hydrostatic pressure of a single fluid column as well as complex (dual gradient) fluid systems

5: Drilling Flow Systems REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

41.2%

58.8%

61.8%

64.7%

64.7%

73.5%

47.1%

35.3%

32.4%

23.5%

29.4%

20.6%

11.8%

5.9%

5.9%

11.8%

5.9%

5.9%

Be able to calculate the power requirements for the rigs draw works and mud pumps

Familiarity with cementing equipment and procedures (e.g., centralizers, two-plug methods, rotating and circulating heads, jet-cone mixers and pod blenders)

Be able to identify and define drilling rig systems

Be able to identify and define the parts of a drilling rig

Describe kick detection tests, shut-in procedures, routine kill methods (drillers method and weight and weigh)

Be able to discuss equipment used to drill a well: bit, drill collars, stabilizers, drill pipe, Kelly, standpipe, identify different types of bits

6: Drilling Equipment REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

52.9%

55.9%

55.9%

55.9%

55.9%

58.8%

58.8%

58.8%

61.8%

61.8%

64.7%

64.7%

64.7%

67.6%

70.6%

73.5%

73.5%

76.5%

79.4%

79.4%

41.2%

41.2%

38.2%

38.2%

38.2%

38.2%

38.2%

32.4%

32.4%

38.2%

32.4%

32.4%

26.5%

26.5%

23.5%

20.6%

20.6%

17.6%

17.6%

17.6%

5.9%

2.9%

5.9%

5.9%

5.9%

2.9%

2.9%

8.8%

5.9%

2.9%

2.9%

8.8%

5.9%

5.9%

5.9%

5.9%

5.9%

2.9%

2.9%

Display knowledge of fracture breakdown, fracture extension, tip screenout, wellbore screenout, ISIP, fracture flosure, wellbore friction, perf friction, etc.

Demonstrate ability to find a fracture top using a temperature log

Describe the effect of temperature changes in the trapped (unvented) annular fluids on the inner casing or tubing

Describe the purpose for a dual completion and the basic equipment used

Describe the types of subsurface safety valves and when they are required

Describe how the frac and well equipment must be designed to contain the frac (tubing and packer forces from temperature and pressure, cement

requirements, pipe burst limits, annular monitoring, pop-off valves, pressure

Describe the purposes for and the basic types of packer systems and most common equipment

Describe the causes of sand movement in a weakly cemented formation (fluid drag, relative perm decrease at first water flow, high velocity, tectonic

stresses, wellbore breakout, etc.) and how sand movement can be

Describe the stages of a frac and what each does (pad, slurry, flush)

Describe general knowledge of oil field tubular (connections, grades, weights, etc)

Describe function of a wellhead & the various components (wellhead flange, master valves, crown valves, wing valves, flow-cross or flow T, annular

access valves, cellars, casing & tubing hangers) including how each section

Describe the benefits or vertical, deviated, horizontal & toe-up horizontal wells & where each is most applicable in respect to fluid type, secondary/

tertiary recovery & geology

Ability to evaluate performance of tubular (burst, collapse, tension)

Describe basic hydraulic fracturing stimulation and list the elements (pumps, blenders, wellhead isolation (frac tree), fluids, proppant, etc)

Describe how much cement is needed in the annulus of each casing string and why possible cement column height is limited

Describe the difference between overbalanced, balanced and underbalanced perforating and where each is used

Describe the basic tubular strings of a well (conductor, surface, production)

Describe the common methods of perforating (shaped charge or “jet”, abrasive perforating, mechanical, bullet, etc.)

Describe the difference between a full string and a liner

Describe an open hole and a cased hole and state the advantages/disadvantages of each

Be able to calculate displacement of tubular, and volumes in pipe and annular spaces

7: WELL COMPLETIONS REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

35.3%

35.3%

35.3%

41.2%

41.2%

44.1%

47.1%

47.1%

47.1%

50%

52.9%

52.9%

55.9%

58.8%

58.8%

50%

52.9%

55.9%

44.1%

47.1%

50%

41.2%

47.1%

41.2%

8.8%

5.9%

5.9%

8.8%

5.9%

8.8%

5.9%

2.9%

8.8%

5.9%

Describe the function of equipment used to place a sand control completion (work string, crossover, gravel pack packer (multi-position), wash pipe,

screen, gravel, etc)

Describe special equipment and fluids required for a HPHT completion

Describe high stress and possible failure areas in HPHT completions (seals, inadequate cement, corrosion, buckling of tubulars, connection cycling, etc)

Demonstrate how to select gravel size and sand control screen mesh size from formation particle sieve analysis

Describe causes and warning signs of sand control failure and possible repair methods

Describe tubular string components (profiles, pup-joints, hangers, etc.) and their use

Describe how charge size, charge type (DP or BH), number of charges, charge phasing, entrance hole) are selected

Describe the basic sand control methods (rate control with a choke, cavity completion, stand alone screen, gravel pack (CH and OH), high rate gravel

pack and frac pack) and the advantages/disadvantages of each

Describe how increasing tubular string tension decreases collapse resistance

Describe how corrosion properties of produced and injected fluid affect casing material selection (i.e., need for 13Chrome and duplex compositions,

plastic lined systems, etc.)

Describe the common conveyance methods and where each is best used (wireline, coiled tubing, tubing conveyed)

27.3%

30.3%

36.4%

36.4%

39.4%

51.5%

51.5%

57.6%

60.6%

54.5%

54.5%

54.5%

42.4%

39.4%

39.4%

33.3%

12.1%

15.2%

9.1%

9.1%

18.2%

9.1%

9.1%

9.1%

Determine accumulator capacity requirements in deepwater drilling

Calculate forces and displacements in moored drilling applications

Describe environmental forces acting on a floating drilling vessel

Describe dual gradient drilling

Evaluate the results of seal tests

Understand shallow hazards such as shallow gas and shallow water flows

Determine fracture gradients offshore

Calculate pressure drops in the system when circulating drilling mud

8: Floating Drilling REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

33.3%

36.4%

39.4%

39.4%

39.4%

39.4%

45.5%

48.5%

60.6%

57.6%

54.5%

54.5%

57.6%

54.5%

45.5%

45.5%

6.1%

6.1%

6.1%

6.1%

3%

6.1%

9.1%

6.1%

Calculate torque and drag in directional wellbores

Perform calculations for performing trajectory changes in the wellbore

Perform well planning and design for directional drilling including horizontal drilling

Calculate the effect of torque on drillstring twist

Describe methods for kicking off from vertical

Understand drilling with positive displacement motors and turbines

Perform wellbore survey calculations

Understand the theory of BHA design in controlling wellbore trajectory

9: Directional Drilling REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

43.8%

53.1%

56.3%

56.3%

62.5%

68.8%

71.9%

81.3%

84.4%

50%

37.5%

40.6%

40.6%

34.4%

28.1%

21.9%

15.6%

12.5%

9.4%

Explain the use of dimensionless variables and dimensionless solutions to illustrate the generic performance of a particular reservoir model

Derive and apply the steady-state flow equations for horizontal linear and radial flows of liquids and gases, including the pseudopressure and pressure-squared forms

Apply the pseudosteady-state flow equation for a liquid (black oil) system

Application - familiar with the diffusivity equations for liquids and gases, and aware of the assumptions, limitations, and applications of these relations

Sketch a plot of pressure versus logarithm of radius and identify all major flow regimes (i.e., transient, pseudosteady-state, and steady-state flow behavior)

Describe utilize the “skin factor” concept derived from steady-state flow to represent damage or stimulation (including the apparent wellbore radius concept)

Explain how to derive and apply the material balance relation for a slightly compressible liquid (oil) system and the material balance relation for a dry gas system

Describe reservoir fluids black oils and dry gases

Explain the relationships between porosity and permeability and how these properties influence the flow of fluids in reservoir

10: Describe terminology and commonly-applied methods for quantifying well performance

REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

65.6%

65.6%

68.8%

31.3%

28.1%

28.1%

3.1%

6.3%

3.1%

Construct and interpret a plot of pressure versus the logarithm of time to establish the parameters related to radial flow behavior (i.e., the “semilog” plot)

Construct and interpret a plot of the logarithm of pressure drop and pressure drop derivative versus the logarithm of time to establish the parameters related to

wellbore storage, radial flow, and vertical fracture behavior (i.e., the “log-log” plot)

Construct and interpret a plot of pressure versus time to establish the parameters related to wellbore storage behavior (i.e., the “early time” plot)

11: Apply Well Test Analysis using Conventional Plots REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

46.7%

50%

50%

50%

43.3%

43.3%

3.3%

6.7%

6.7%

Use a type curve to analyze well test data from a fractured well which includes wellbore storage, distortion, fracture flow regimes, and radial flow behavior

Use a type curve to analyze well test data from an unfractured well which includes wellbore storage distortion and radial flow behavior (including damage or

stimulation (i.e., skin effects)

Use type curves to analyze well test data where the data include effects from closed boundaries or sealing faults

12: Apply Well Test Analysis using Type Curve Analysis REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

60%

76.7%

30%

20%

10%

3.3%

Use decline type curves to analyze production data from an unfractured or hydraulically fractured oil of gas well – where these type curves illustrate both

transient and boundary dominated flow behavior

Estimate the “recoverable reserves” for an oil or gas well using plots of rate versus time (semilog rate format) and rate versus cumulative production

13: Apply Production Data Analysis REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

56.7%

66.7%

76.7%

83.3%

83.3%

86.7%

36.7%

30%

20%

13.3%

13.3%

10%

6.7%

3.3%

3.3%

3.3%

3.3%

3.3%

Apply probabilistic approach

Apply reserves definitions

Understand elementary of petroleum reserves accounting

Apply cash flow

Apply discount cash flow

Apply net present value, rate of return, and pay back period

14: Understand and use Basic Project Economic REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

56.7%

56.7%

66.7%

66.7%

76.7%

36.7%

33.3%

26.7%

26.7%

23.3%

6.7%

10%

6.7%

6.7%

Combine material balance with IPR’s for production forecasts

Describe unsteady state water drive

Define and evaluate water drive with forecasting

Describe steady state water drive

Describe gas material balance

15: Derive and use the Gas Material Balance coupled with Forecasting


46.7%

53.3%

53.3%

56.7%

60.0%

63.3%

46.7%

36.7%

40%

36.7%

33.3%

30%

6.7%

10%

6.7%

6.7%

6.7%

6.7%

Derive and use a general black oil material balance with gas injection and water drive

Describe and evaluate drive indexes

Describe combining material balance with IPR’s for production forecasts

Derive and use the black oil material balance for saturated reservoirs

Describe black oil material balance

Describe volumetric and non-volumetric reservoirs

16: Derive and use the Oil Material Balance coupled with Forecasting


43.3%

43.3%

53.3%

56.7%

46.7%

46.7%

43.3%

36.7%

10%

10%

3.3%

6.7%

Use Dykstra-Parsons Method

Describe Use Styles Method

Evaluate waterflooding models for homogeneous and heterogeneous reservoirs

Explain mobility ratios and factors that affect displacement efficiency

17: Derive and Describe Immiscible Frontal Advance Theory and Applications


73.3% 26.7% Work effectively, as measured by peer and instructor evaluations, on a

multidisciplinary team consisting of geophysicists, geologist, and petroleum engineers

18: Multidisciplinary Team Skills REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

36.7%

43.3%

46.7%

53.3%

46.7%

50%

10%

3.3%

Explain common terminology, objectives, methods and results associated with each of the disciplines involved in an integrated reservoir study

List and explain the phases of an integrated reservoir study

List the data required for a reservoir simulation study

19: Explain how to conduct an Integrated Reservoir Study, including the components of a study and data required


26.7%

26.7%

30%

33.3%

36.7%

43.3%

56.7%

60%

60%

60%

60%

43.3%

16.7%

13.3%

10%

6.7%

3.3%

13.3%

Lead a multidisciplinary team in a petrophysical evaluation of core data and open-hole log data using modern petrophysical evaluation software

As a member of a multidisciplinary team, develop correlations of seismic an petrophysical data and extrapolate petrophysical properties using the seismic data

As a member of a multidisciplinary team, assist in a geophysical evaluation resulting in the interpretation of structure and faulting in a typical hydrocarbon

reservoir

As a member of a multidisciplinary team, assist in a geological evaluation resulting in the creation of structural and stratigraphic cross sections and contour maps of

geological and petrophysical properties such as structure, reservoir thickness and

Lead a multidisciplinary team in engineering evaluations of pressure, production, PVT and SCAL data to determine reservoir and well properties

20: Develop a complete description of a Hydrocarbon Reservoir using geoscientific engineering methods REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

27.6%

34.5%

41.4%

41.4%

41.4%

65.5%

51.7%

51.7%

51.7%

51.7%

6.9%

13.8%

6.9%

6.9%

6.9%

Calibrate a reservoir simulation model to observed performance data by modifying reservoir description data within reasonable limits

Develop a plan for a reservoir simulation history match, including objectives, performance data to be matched, match criteria, and a prioritized list of well and

reservoir description data to be varied in the match

From a complete, integrated reservoir description and well data, create a data set for a commercial reservoir simulator to model performance of the reservoir

Initialize the reservoir simulation model and verify the reasonableness and accuracy of the calculated initial pressure and saturation distributions

Execute the reservoir simulation model and verify the accuracy of the production data input to the model

21: Given a complete reservoir description and well data, and design, construct, execute and quality check a reservoir simulation model


34.5%

41.4%

41.4%

62.1%

55.2%

51.7%

3.4%

3.4%

6.9%

Determine the optimum development plan for a reservoir, using reservoir simulation and economic modeling, by minimizing or maximizing an appropriate

economic parameter

Predict future performance of a reservoir using reservoir simulation, given specifications (in typical field terms) as to how the reservoir is to be operated

Construct an economic model of a field using commercial economic software or spreadsheets provided, given economic data typically available in industry

22: Predict and optimize reservoir performance using reservoir simulation and economic modeling


55.2%

58.6%

41.4%

37.9%

3.4%

3.4%

Effectively present the results of an integrated reservoir study orally

Effectively present the results of an integrated reservoir study in a written report

23: Effectively communicate the results of an integrated reservoir study orally and in written reports


69%

72.4%

75.9%

86.2%

27.6%

24.1%

17.2%

10.3%

3.4%

3.4%

6.9%

3.4%

Discuss inter-relationships among them

Discuss factors that affect them

Use them in typical reservoir engineering calculations

Define porosity, rock compressibility, fluid saturation, boundary tension, wetability, capillary pressure resistivity, resistivity factor, resistivity index, saturation exponent,

and cementation factor

24: Describe and calculate basic proper4es of the rock fluid system affec4ng the storage and flow capacity of the system and distribu4on of fluids with the system


51.7%

55.2%

58.6%

65.5%

79.3%

44.8%

41.4%

37.9%

31%

17.2%

3.4%

3.4%

3.4%

3.4%

3.4%

Calculate the permeability of flow units in parallel and in series and with fracture channels

Reproduce the differential form of the

Integrate the Darcy equation for typical reservoir rock fluid systems

Darcy equation and explain its meaning

Discuss Darcy’s experiment

25: Calculate permeability using Darcy’s Law REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

55.2%

58.6%

62.1%

82.8%

41.4%

37.9%

34.5%

13.8%

3.4%

3.4%

3.4%

3.4%

Use correlations to estimate relative permeability

Use relative permeability data in typical reservoir engineering applications

Reproduce typical relative permeability curves and show effect of saturation history on relative permeability

Define effective permeability and relative permeability

26: Describe and use effective and relative permeability REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

27.6%

41.4%

55.2%

65.5%

51.7%

37.9%

6.9%

6.9%

6.9%

Use ternary diagrams to display 3-phase relative permeability

Use correlations to estimate 3-phase relative permeability

Describe 3-phase flow in reservoir rock

27: Describe and use 3-phase relative permeability


37.9%

48.3%

58.6%

51.7%

37.9%

31%

10.3%

13.8%

10.3%

Design and conduct experiments to determine porosity, rock compressibility, absolute and relative permeability, fluid saturation, capillary pressure, and electrical

properties of reservoir rocks

Prepare laboratory reports

Analyze and interpret experimental data

28: Design and conduct experiments to determine basic rock fluid properties


31%

41.4%

41.4%

41.4%

51.7%

55.2%

58.6%

62.1%

65.5%

55.2%

41.4%

48.3%

48.3%

41.4%

31%

34.5%

34.5%

31%

13.8%

17.2%

10.3%

10.3%

6.9%

13.8%

6.9%

3.4%

3.4%

Estimate lithology in Ternary Mixtures case

Estimate porosity and lithology in Binary Mixture case

Estimate water resistivity, matrix density/transit time, and saturation with a Hingle plot

Estimate saturation using double-layer and V-shale models in shaly

Describe Clay types, geometries, and effects on formation properties

Estimate porosity in the Monomineral case

Estimate porosity in shaly sands

Estimate saturation using Archie’s laws in clean formations

Estimate water resistivity and saturation with a Pickett plot

29: Able to interpret common open hole logging measurements for lithology, porosity, and water saturation estimates and their associated uncertainties


51.7%

51.7%

44.8%

44.8%

3.4%

3.4%

Display log data and results on analyses

Display and interpret data

30: Able to perform basic wireline log evaluations on a commercial software package REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

51.7%

58.6%

44.8%

34.5%

3.4%

6.9%

Depth matching of core and log data

List benefits and problems of integrating log and core data

31: Able to integrate wireline logging data with basic core data in order to assess formation lithology porosity, and permeability


55.2%

65.5%

41.4%

31%

3.4%

3.4%

Describe the use of statistics in petroleum engineering

Describe estimation and uncertainty

32: Understand various types and forms of reservoir heterogeneity and its role in reservoir performance. Appreciate the uncertainty in reservoir property estimates and the need to quantify it. Understand the difference between deterministic vs. stochast


24.1%

27.6%

27.6%

31%

48.3%

48.3%

44.8%

41.4%

27.6%

24.1%

27.6%

27.6%

Describe coefficient of determination

Describe joint distribution

Describe residual analysis

Describe related petroleum engineering applications

35: Perform exploratory data analysis through transformations and correlation. Learn about coefficient of determination and residual analysis. Use existing software to analyze well log and core data from oil field


27.6%

34.5%

37.9%

37.9%

48.3%

51.7%

58.6%

48.3%

51.7%

44.8%

34.5%

34.5%

13.8%

5%

10.3%

17.2%

17.2%

13.8%

Describe estimator efficiency, robustness

Describe noncentered and centered moments

Describe covariance and its properties

Describe expectation operator

Describe related petroleum engineering applications

Describe confidence intervals

34: Learn about statistical moment and expectations and how to formulate various estimators using these concepts. Learn about estimator bias, efficiency and robustness. Learn about confidence intervals an apply the concept to permeability estimates


24.1%

27.6%

31%

31%

51.7%

44.8%

41.4%

41.4%

24.1%

27.6%

27.6%

27.6%

Describe semivariance

Describe variogram modeling

Describe variograms

Describe rules and assumptions

36: Learn about analysis of spatial data using variograms and variogram modeling, rules and physical significance of variogram modeling. Practical applications using the software GEOEAS


27.6%

31%

51.7%

44.8%

20.7%

24.1%

Apply basics of conditional simulation

Apply uncertainty quantification

37: Learn about spatial modeling or reservoir properties using kriging and the use of kriging variance as a measure of uncertainty, basic concepts of conditional simulation and the need to study multiple realizations. Solve examples using GEOEAS REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

62.1%

62.1%

65.5%

34.5%

34.5%

31%

3.4%

3.4%

3.4%

Able to summarize reserve categories as defined by the SPE

Able to estimate reserves using volumetric and decline curve methods, and be able to identify sources of uncertainty in these calculations

Able to forecast future production rates vs. time using decline curve methods

38: Able to categorize petroleum reserves and to estimate proved reserves using volumetric and decline curve methods; also, be able to forecast future production rates vs. time


34.5%

37.9%

41.4%

51.7%

48.3%

48.3%

13.8%

13.8%

10.3%

Able to summarize the types of ownership interests and fiscal systems present in various producing nations and the potential impact of these systems on engineering

project economics

Able to summarize petroleum lease laws and categories of ownership of mineral interest

Able to compute expenses and revenue interest in petroleum properties

39: Able to state in concise summary form, the fundamental forms of ownership of petroleum resources, and laws, fiscal systems and financial interests pertinent to their exploitation internationally


65.5%

65.5%

75.9%

79.3%

86.2%

27.6%

27.6%

17.2%

13.8%

10.3%

6.9%

6.9%

6.9%

6.9%

3.4%

Able to calculate investment yardsticks for petroleum investment projects, including those based on time-value-of-money concepts and those based on other

considerations

Able to determine whether a given project is acceptable or not, using investment yardsticks

Able to determine the most attractive projects from a group of acceptable projects, using investment yardsticks

Able to construct a cash flow stream for a petroleum project, including calculation of taxes

Explain the concepts of interest, present value, future value and time value of money

40: Able to perform basic cash flow analysis for petroleum projects and to determine whether proposed projects are acceptable or unacceptable and, in a given list of acceptable projects, determine which projects are most attractive REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

46.4%

60.7%

60.7%

46.4%

35.7%

35.7%

7.1%

3.6%

3.6%

Able to describe strengths, weaknesses, and limitations of Monte Carlo analysis and to describe broadly how this technique is applied to petroleum projects

Able to apply basic probability theory to evaluate uncertainty in petroleum projects

Able to perform sensitivity analyses and risk adjustment calculations and to recognize and/or minimize the risk inherent in a project

41: Able to evaluate uncertainty in reserve estimates and economic appraisal REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

39.3%

42.9%

64.3%

35.7%

39.3%

25%

25%

17.9%

10.7%

Able to set personal financial goals and establish a plan to reach those goals

Establish a life-long learning plan consistent with career goal

Able to set personal career goals

42: Able to set personal career and financial goals, including personal investment, planning, financial management, and a life-long learning plan


46.4% 50% 3.6% Able to incorporate social, political, cultural, and environmental factors into decision making

43: Able to incorporate social, political, cultural, and environmental factors into decision making REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

61.5%

64%

65.4%

65.4%

69.2%

69.2%

73.1%

76.9%

30.8%

28%

34.6%

26.9%

30.8%

30.8%

19.2%

23.1%

7.7%

8%

7.7%

7.7%

Describe & identify basics of scale and corrosion issues and basic remediation

Describe where secondary recovery methods are most applicable

Describe the basic surface facility equipment including FWKO, horizontal and vertical separators, heater treaters, electrostatic separators, vapor collection,

compression, LACT units, etc

Describe basic wireline equipment, tools and methods where wireline work assists production operations

Describe the flow regimes for a well in natural flow

Describe gas and water coning principles, control methods and calculation methods

Describe common damage mechanisms (fill, emulsions, scale, paraffing, asphaltenes, hydrates, etc.), what causes the damage and how to prevent and

remove the damage

Basic understanding of measurement of produced fluids and gas

44: Production Operations REQUIRED VALUED NOT REQUIRED

50%

50%

50%

50%

52%

53.8%

53.8%

53.8%

53.8%

53.8%

53.8%

53.8%

56%

57.7%

57.7%

57.7%

61.5%

61.5%

61.5%

61.5%

50%

50%

38.5%

38.5%

36%

46.2%

38.5%

42.3%

46.2%

42.3%

34.6%

30.8%

36%

26.9%

34.6%

34.6%

38.5%

38.5%

38.5%

34.6%

11.5%

11.5%

12%

7.7%

3.8%

3.8%

11.5%

15.4%

8%

15.4%

7.7%

7.7%

3.8%

Describe general well repair methods including cutting tubing, fishing, tubing leak repair, tubing corrosion repair, etc

Describe, evaluate, design & troubleshoot basic artificial lift methods (pump, gas lift, plunger lift, etc)

Describe, identify & recommend wellhead equipment

Understanding of field development planning (i.e. rig scheduling, Land (ROW and drilling title), etc.)

Describe recompletion methods, equipment and design checks required to refit a naturally flowing well for gas lift

Describe how the wellhead choke works and how it can be used to maximize natural flow liquid lift

Describe how a gas lift well unloads and show proficiency in basic gas lift design

Describe logging or other anaylsis methods to find skipped pay

Evaluate workovers using simple economic analysis (NPV, PV10 hurdles, etc)

Describe, evaluate & recommend basic well hydraulic fracturing stimulation theory

Describe & recommend basic waterflood project

Basic understanding of project data collection and archiving

Describe the common production corrosion mechanisms (CO2, bacterial, SSC, SCC, Erosion-Corrosion, etc.) and basic approaches for corrosion control

Describe how plunger lift works and at what conditions it best operates

Describe methods for killing a well and bringing it back to production

Describe, identify & recommend surface production equipment,(separators, compression, dehy’s, etc)

Describe comman kift systems and their advantages/disadvantages

Describe how an ESP works and what factors control its use and reliability

Show proficiency in establishing a descline curve from production data and selecting the proper exponents

Describe coiled tubing equipment tools and methods where CT work assists production operations

34.6%

34.6%

34.6%

36%

38.5%

38.5%

38.5%

42.3%

42.3%

42.3%

42.3%

42.3%

46.2%

46.2%

46.2%

46.2%

46.2%

48%

50%

50%

53.8%

53.8%

53.8%

56%

61.5%

61.5%

53.8%

50%

53.8%

46.2%

53.8%

46.2%

50%

42.3%

53.8%

46.2%

53.8%

40%

42.3%

11.5%

11.5%

11.5%

8%

7.7%

7.7%

3.8%

11.5%

3.8%

11.5%

3.8%

11.5%

7.7%

12%

7.7%

Describe & identify completion tools (plugs, permanent vs retrievable packers, etc)

Describe & recommend basic acid treatments

Understand applications and limitations of tools utilized with coiled tubing

Describe what reservoir and completions assistance is needed to initiate a secondary recovery operation

Describe the flow regime differences between vertical well (hindered settling) and deviated wells (fluid segregation and boycott settling) and how this affects

production as production rate falls

Demonstrate from production history curves and field maps which wells should be examined for workovers

Describe logging or other analysis methods to find: flow behind pipe, leaks, uncemented channels, corrosion problems, etc

Describe why fluid level shots are important and how they are done

Demonstrate how to spot liquid loading and slugging in a gas well

Describe unloading methods including displacement, rocking and stop-cocking

Ability to evaluate & troubleshoot well performance using production plots

Describe, identify & recommend basic completion fluids and oilfield brines

Describe basic water control analysis methods and treating methods

Describe methods and equipment for spotting plugs, including sand plugs, cement plugs, retrievable and drillable plugs

Demonstrate proficiency in well workover candidate selection by ranking candidates by skin-removal calculations, economic comparison of job costs and

risk ranking to construct a ranked candidate list with expected pay-out or ROI

Demonstrate proficiency in plug and abandonment by completing a basic P&A design with required tests/monitoring identified to meet standards for a selected

government regulation

Evaluate a field financial performance using industry used metrics (LOE statements, etc)

Describe how a rod lift pump works, the actions of the standing and traveling valve, what causes gas lock and rod pound , and what factors help set pump stroke

length and speed

Describe cased hole logs to assist in defining production points

repair, tubing corrosion repair, etc

26.9%

30.8%

30.8%

30.8%

30.8%

34.6%

34.6%

50%

61.5%

57.7%

61.5%

46.2%

61.5%

46.2%

23.1%

7.7%

11.5%

7.7%

23.1%

3.8%

19.2%

Exposure to crisis management. (dealing with the public, regulatory agencies and the press since the Production/Operations engineer is in the field and on the front

line during a crisis)

Read a dynamometer card and identify the actions occuring in the recording

Describe methods for pulling and/or milling packers

Ability to design & evaluate saltwater disposal solutions

Understand Turner’s et al gas well loading equations application and limitations

Display proficiency in produced water and frac backflow fluid management by constructing a basic design for handling the produced water including separating,

processing, recycling or disposal

Describe & identify basic downhole fishing tools and uses

Documents

The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers Matrix · ... The SPE Technical Knowledge for Graduating Engineers ... as a working knowledge of the foundations of petroleum