Session: 01-09 Transformative Technologies Driving Oil & Gas Efficiency and Sustainability

Paper Number: 174494

174494 - Ai Hype or Leverage - Unlocking Ai Value to Drive Production Optimization in Upstream O&g 

The upstream oil and gas sector is on the cusp of a major operational shift, fueled by the accelerating adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. This presentation will explore how these technologies are fundamentally reshaping traditional extraction methods to maximize efficiency, enhance safety, and accelerate sustainable growth.

The core challenge for modern upstream producers lies in navigating increasingly complex geological environments, mitigating operational risks, and responding to extreme market volatility. This presentation delineates the position that AI provides a strategic and definitive advantage by transforming the deluge of unstructured and structured data, from seismic surveys and well logs to real-time sensor streams and maintenance records, into actionable, predictive insights.

We will delve into key AI applications with a focus on delivering tangible value. First, we will examine predictive maintenance, demonstrating how advanced machine learning models can analyze equipment telemetry to forecast potential failures. This allows for proactive interventions, minimizing costly unplanned downtime and optimizing maintenance schedules. Second, we will showcase how AI is revolutionizing reservoir characterization. By applying deep learning to interpret vast seismic data and well logs, operators can create highly accurate subsurface models. This precision enables more optimal well placement and drilling decisions, leading to a significant increase in hydrocarbon recovery rates. Finally, we will explore the critical role of AI in enhancing operational efficiency and safety. We will highlight the use of computer vision for continuous monitoring of drilling sites, enabling real-time detection of operational anomalies and potential safety hazards.

The presentation will conclude with a forward-looking perspective on the future of AI in industry, including a discussion of emerging technologies and best practices for successful implementation. We will argue that the AI revolution is not merely about adopting a new suite of tools but about forging a new paradigm for upstream operations that is more resilient, data-driven, and capable of unlocking unprecedented levels of performance in a resource-constrained world.

Presenting Author: Ikpoto (Ike), Phd Udoh Bimaclaxx Solutions

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Ikpoto (Ike) E. Udoh is a prominent leader in the renewable energy and low-carbon solutions space, distinguished by his extensive academic background and practical industry experience. As the President & CEO of Bimaclaxx Solutions, LLC, he leverages a unique combination of a Ph.D. in Ocean Engineering from Texas A&M University and an MBA from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management. His career is marked by a deep commitment to technical excellence and innovation, particularly in the design and management of complex projects.
Ike's journey reflects a strong focus on floating offshore structures for both traditional and renewable energy applications. He has held significant leadership roles at firms like Simpson Gumpertz & Heger and Kent Houston Offshore Engineering, where he was instrumental in securing major contracts and expanding market share. His technical leadership is evident in his management of multi-million dollar projects, from the front-end engineering design (FEED) of floating wind platforms for the U.S. Department of Energy to the development of modularized, motion-attenuated offshore energy systems.
A prolific researcher, Dr. Udoh has authored and co-authored numerous publications and presentations, primarily focusing on the performance and design of floating offshore structures. His work has been featured in top-tier conferences and journals, including the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) and Ocean Systems Engineering.
His academic contributions underscore his role as a thought leader, blending rigorous analysis with practical, real-world applications to advance the state of the art in offshore and renewable energy engineering.