OAA 2014: Organizers expect record attendance

Organisers of the Offshore Achievement Awards are expecting another record-breaking year for attendance at next month’s ceremony, following the introduction of two brand new categories and an increased number of entries.

The awards, organised and hosted by the Society of Petroleum Engineers Aberdeen Section with the support of principal sponsor TAQA, saw 530 people from the oil and gas and renewables industries attend last year, the largest audience to date.

More than 80 entries have been received for this year’s awards, which will again celebrate exceptional performance across a range of categories including safety innovations, company successes and individual achievements. The much anticipated winners of two new categories – Inspiring Leader and Environmentalist – will also be announced on the night.

Ian Phillips, director of energy business consultancy Pale Blue Dot Energy Limited and the SPE Aberdeen board member responsible for organising the OAAs, said: “The Offshore Achievement Awards ceremony is recognised as one of the best networking opportunities within the UK offshore sector, bringing together professionals from across all levels of the industry.

“With only limited spaces now remaining, we would encourage anyone thinking of attending to secure their place as soon as possible in order to avoid disappointment.”

The 28th awards ceremony will take place on Thursday 20 March at the Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre.

Sean Lock, one of the UK’s most highly acclaimed comedians and a team captain on the popular comedy panel show ‘8 Out of 10 Cats’, will host the evening and present each of the category winners with bespoke trophies designed by RGU student Kayleigh Cummings.

Graham Skinner, winner of last year’s Young Professional award, commented on what winning meant to him: “The awards evening was a great team event which was attended by senior management from my employer at the time, KCA DEUTAG, and we were all thrilled to have won.

“Since winning, I have moved on to new challenges within the industry and proudly place my Offshore Achievement Award win at the top of my CV.”