Developing the next generation of engineers is essential to delivering the energy transition and achieving net zero. They’ll play a vital role in projects that combat climate change and ensure security of supply.

Ahead of a drive to recruit more graduate engineers, we caught up with Keagan Church-Forbes to learn how he secured his role at THREE60 Energy, what attracted him to the energy industry, and his career ambitions. 

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in this industry?

A. I’ve always been interested in how energy shapes our lives. I was well aware of the key role oil and gas has played in our energy mix and how it will remain a vital part of the energy transition for years to come. Decommissioning also has an ever-growing presence in the industry, and this was an area I was interested in pursuing alongside drilling.

Q: What attracted you to THREE60 Energy?

A. The graduate programme stood out to me as it involves a nine-month rig familiarisation period which includes working onboard an active jack-up performing roustabout and roughneck duties.

The idea of working on several different projects at once and actively contributing to their success appealed to me as it provides the opportunity to gain experience in multiple scopes of work simultaneously.

Q: How did you secure your role at THREE60 Energy?

A. I found out about the graduate programme through a family member’s colleague who was carrying out their rig crew training onboard a jack-up in the North Sea.

I reached out to the graduate engineer to learn about the programme and then got in touch with the THREE60 Energy team who were really helpful and told me more about the application process. I had a telephone interview and an aptitude test, following which I received a job offer. All in all, it was a very simple process!

Q: What does your role involve?

A. As a Graduate Well Engineer, I’m part of an active rig crew offshore and responsible for well planning in drilling projects onshore. This includes working on the technical design of the well and securing all the equipment, personnel and cost estimates needed for the project. I’m also involved in abandonment planning for decommissioning which involves technical planning and acquiring the relevant equipment and personnel.

Q: What are you hoping to learn in your new role?

A. Getting to work offshore and learn how a rig works is great fun and a lot more appealing to me than a typical nine to five office job. This, combined with the opportunities for technical learning onshore, is a really good mix.

I’m looking forward to learning the full process of well engineering projects, from initial planning to project close out.

Working as part of a close-knit team, I’m excited to further improve my communication skills and I’m keen to push myself out of my comfort zone by taking advantage of the many development opportunities on offer here.

Q: What are your career ambitions for the future?

A. My aim is to become a chartered engineer, while progressing my well engineering capabilities, both of which are made possible by the support of the THREE60 Energy team. Playing a part in the energy transition and contributing to achieving net zero targets while building a solid career for myself is very rewarding.

Q: What would be your advice to others looking to pursue a career in the industry?

A. If you want to work on a wide range of projects and help facilitate positive change in the world, then this is the industry for you.

If you’re currently studying, look out for summer internships which will help you gain industry experience to stand out from the crowd when applying for jobs. Reaching out to companies by phone or email can help get your name noticed when vacancies come up too.  

You can learn more about THREE60 Energy’s service lines here.