This past year was challenging for many of us, having to deal with the disruptions from COVID-19 in virtually every aspect of our daily routines. In the oil and gas industry, companies struggled to survive, many were forced into bankruptcy and some closed for good. There were major mergers last year stemming from the financial crunch companies faced as a result of the pandemic. Several of the mega-acquisitions are still being worked out, which may result in more layoffs. The energy industry is known for annual trade shows and, because of the pandemic, we were forced to change our networking pattern from in-person to virtual. With all that said, I’m optimistic about the oil and gas industry moving forward this year. Industry events and conferences are planned for the second half of this year and I’m sensing the enthusiasm to get out and network again. There is no doubt all of us had to pivot in some way to continue business as usual. At OILMAN we did as well. Not only did we adjust to survive, by focusing on our customers and core product, we launched a new magazine, OILWOMAN. Yes, indeed, a daunting endeavor to pursue in a challenging business climate, but it was the right time and the feedback has been positive. It’s the optimistic spirit in our industry and as Americans that moves us forward. Please take time to read the feature article about Josh Robbins, founder of Beachwood, and one of our longest OILMAN contributors. He discusses the A&D market and how he started his business in Oklahoma. OILMAN has a slightly new look as we move into the new year. Similar to OILWOMAN, the cover page is now a portrait of the guest in the feature article. Hope that you enjoy this issue, happy new year, and all the best in 2021!
The CEO of U.S. Energy Media, Emmanuel Sullivan is a technical writer who has built up his profile in the oil and gas industry. He lives and works in Houston, where he publishes Oilman and Oilwoman on a bimonthly basis, and Energies quarterly, distributing the magazine to energy thought leaders and professionals throughout the United States and around the world. At a time when technology is rapidly changing, he provides an invaluable service to oil & gas, and renewable energy executives, engineers, and managers, offering them both broad and specific looks at the topics that affect their livelihoods. Sullivan earned his BA in Communications at Thomas Edison State University and his MA in Professional Writing at Chatham University.
- Emmanuel Sullivanhttps://energiesmedia.com/author/emmanuel-sullivan/
- Emmanuel Sullivanhttps://energiesmedia.com/author/emmanuel-sullivan/
- Emmanuel Sullivanhttps://energiesmedia.com/author/emmanuel-sullivan/
- Emmanuel Sullivanhttps://energiesmedia.com/author/emmanuel-sullivan/
- Emmanuel Sullivanhttps://energiesmedia.com/author/emmanuel-sullivan/
- Emmanuel Sullivanhttps://energiesmedia.com/author/emmanuel-sullivan/
Oil and gas operations are commonly found in remote locations far from company headquarters. Now, it's possible to monitor pump operations, collate and analyze seismic data, and track employees around the world from almost anywhere. Whether employees are in the office or in the field, the internet and related applications enable a greater multidirectional flow of information – and control – than ever before.