Leading oil and gas professionals from across the globe convened in London for International Petroleum Week in February, with much debate surrounding how the UK oil and gas industry can learn from its successful American counterparts.

The United States overtook Saudi Arabia as the world’s leading oil producing nation in 2013, and for the second consecutive year has been home to the largest increase in global production. The US economy is set to benefit greatly from this recent energy production boom and, in addition, the switch from coal to gas will see US carbon emissions drop to 10 percent below 2005 levels.

Continuous improvement in the reliability and safety of operations has led this production increase, and new technology such as advanced seismic imaging used in the Gulf of Mexico has improved extraction techniques. One leading industry spokesman said the success in the US was due to more young people entering the industry, providing vital new skills and talent.

Patrick Phelan, Managing Director for Aquaterra Energy, said: “New technology and techniques have undoubtedly helped the US energy sector improve production. The UK’s oil and gas industry also demonstrates outstanding innovation; the only thing hampering us is the industry-wide shortage of talented young engineers to help drive innovative development. Aquaterra Energy is responsible for designing and developing leading edge technology for a full range of offshore products from minimum facilities platforms and high pressure riser systems to H4 and TN2 connectors, all developed to the highest quality and safety standards.

“Much of the American oil and gas industry’s success has been attributed to the ability to recruit and retain young talent within the engineering sector, and Aquaterra Energy is also investing in promoting career opportunities; providing highly regarded apprenticeship schemes; and forming partnerships with learning institutions such as Cambridge University, Lowestoft College and the University Technical College Norfolk. Our apprenticeship schemes, together with work experience initiatives, give young people the chance to work with professional engineers and gain hands-on experience to inspire them to aim for a high flying career in the industry.”