Unlike other more transient and unclear practical vocations, to train to become an engineer –  either in the world of electrics or oil – will certainly stand you in good stead for a job role that will always be in demand (no matter how the modern world changes and adapts).

So, if you are considering (or even have your heart set on) becoming an oil and gas engineer, then here are the key steps you need to take to make your dream into a reality.

1.    Familiarise Yourself with the Core Duties

Even if a parent or another member of your family is involved in the oil and gas industry, it is still important for you to conduct your own thorough research into what the role of oil and gas engineer involves – and more specifically, be informed of all the latest changes or emerging technologies too.

As such, the key roles of an oil and gas engineer are as follows:

• Assessing the commercial potential of wells
• Administering and building service contracts to entire teams
• Creating and administering complex production plans
• Tracking and amending costs and budgeting
• Ensuring legal compliance throughout

2.    Enrol Yourself into University

Unfortunately, even if you have a wealth of knowledge surrounding different elements of the industry and also possess an HND (or equivalent qualification) in engineering, none of this counts for anything when aspiring to become an oil and gas engineer.

Without exception, it is wholly necessary for you to successfully acquire a degree in engineering, and ideally, go on to a master’s degree in engineering too – in either oil and gas engineering specifically, or perhaps aeronautical, marine, mineral, mechanical, mining or geological engineering.

3.    Complete an Internship

Unlike in the case of engineers who primarily work in commercial buildings or personal dwellings, embarking upon an internship when wanting to become an oil and gas engineer is admittedly slightly more difficult.

Orion Group, who you no doubt have already heard of as someone who is interested in becoming an oil and gas engineer, are a leading company to contact should you be interested in pursuing such a career by looking for a relevant internship, and they will be more than happy to provide you with any advice or information you require.

4.    Develop the Relevant Key Skills

Finally and the sooner you begin, the better. It is also essential to hone and develop the necessary core skills required to be successful in your chosen field of engineering, with one of the more crucial factors being excellent and adaptable communication skills due to the team dynamic on a rig.

In addition, as well as having the ability to carry on working under – sometimes incredibly intense – pressure, in order to thrive, you also need to possess impressive reserves of stamina and initiative, be able to write comprehensive and detailed reports as and when required and know how to effectively delegate.

Furthermore, you should do everything within your power to ensure that your critical thinking skills and ability to solve problems when many people are relying on your decision are as astute as they possibly can be.