As one of the Technical Divisions of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, the Petroleum and Drilling Engineering Division exists to support the upstream oil and gas industry by providing a focus for the exchange of knowledge on all aspects of education, science, research and manufacture and to provide networking opportunities; professional development; and a platform for membership growth.

The division has been inactive for a period of time; however an interim board has been set up to re-establish the division. The interim board has good representation from both major and independent energy companies, the service sector and academia although it has been recognised that representation from a wider geographical area and the manufacturing sector would be advantageous.

You may be aware that IOM3 has created the International Mining & Minerals Association (IMMa) to represent the four minerals divisions of IOM3, including the P&DE Division. This umbrella organization is currently compiling a list of IMMa members.

The interim P&DE Divisional Board will utilise the IMMa survey results to establish a list of division affiliates. Once this list is established it is intended to elect a full board for the division in line with IOM3 rules.

If you are interested in joining the board, or helping out in any other way, please contact me. Please note that the division intends to take advantage of modern communications technology such as web based meetings to allow full and active participation from all members regardless of geographical or other constraints.

Steve Bedford

Interim Chair, Petroleum & Drilling Engineering Division