Students to Compete for SPE Energy Apprentice 2014

Around 66 students from universities across Scotland will compete to be named the 2014 Energy Apprentice in a competition organized and hosted by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Young Professional Aberdeen Section Committee.

Sponsored by Total, the event will provide students with a unique opportunity to test their oil and gas knowledge and experience situations similar to those encountered in a graduate employment interview. Students will be challenged throughout four rounds which will include technical questions, team building challenges, fast paced interviews and ‘stand-up’/public presentations.

Following each round, students will be selected based on their performance until only one remains – he/she will become the SPE Energy Apprentice 2014 and win $480 towards their studies.

The biennial event, which first took place in 2012, will take place on November 5 at Aberdeen’s Douglas Hotel.

This year’s competition will be judged by a panel of industry professionals who will rate each student’s performance using his or her own extensive industry experience.

SPE Aberdeen Chairman, Ross Lowdon said, “We have picked up a lot of momentum since the first Energy Apprentice competition and are pleased to see a high turnout again this year. This significant event is the perfect way for students to stand out in an increasingly competitive job market.

“Not only will the students have the chance to win the prestigious title of Energy Apprentice, but the event is also a fantastic opportunity to network with oil and gas professionals and hear more about their career experiences.”

The event, organised by volunteers from SPE Aberdeen’s Young Professionals (YP) Committee, follows the success of the inaugural event in 2012 which saw University of Aberdeen student Lalit Bhamere pick up the title.

Following his selection, Lalit said: “Winning the Energy Apprentice was a very rewarding experience. The event provided me with a great platform to gain industry experience prior to applying for graduate interviews and internships. I was also able to find out first-hand what the industry has to offer and gained quality advice from the professionals who attended.

“I would highly recommend all students to participate in events such as the Energy Apprentice, as it can not only build your confidence, but it can enhance your understanding of the industry and prepare you for situations you may face when leaving university.”

The Aberdeen YP Committee caters for members under the age of 36 or with less than 10 years oil and gas industry experience, making up around 35% of SPE Aberdeen’s members. The committee focuses on professional development, technical learning, social networking and educational support.