The Human Side of Drilling Automation: From Well Design to Digital Execution
Drilling operations have evolved from manual systems and paper workflows to highly digital, automated environments.
Yet, while technology accelerates efficiency and precision, the human factor remains central to safe and successful well delivery.
This presentation will take the audience through the conventional stages of drilling, from well planning and site preparation to drilling execution, evaluation, and completion; explaining the engineer’s traditional responsibilities at each step. It then contrasts these with today’s automated and data-driven systems, highlighting where automation is most prevalent (e.g., rig move, trajectory optimization, real-time decision centers).
Through real field insights and relatable examples, we’ll explore how automation is reshaping the daily work of drilling engineers, what new competencies are emerging, and how professionals can adapt to remain effective, engaged, and valuable in the digital drilling era.
Date/Time
Monday, December 1, 2025
Registration: 11:45 AM MST
Start Time: 12:00 PM MST
End Time: 1:00 PM MST
Location
Calgary City Center Conference Centre | Floor 2 - 215 2nd Street SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1M4
Speaker Bio
Ygnacio Núñez
Drilling Specialist & PhD Student at the University of Calgary
Ygnacio Núñez is a Petroleum Engineer from Venezuela with over 22 years of experience in the oil and gas industry across Venezuela and the UAE. He holds a Master’s degree in Drilling and Well Engineering from the University of Robert Gordon, Scotland, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Sustainable Energy at the University of Calgary. Ygnacio has extensive expertise in drilling technology, well optimization, and operational efficiency. As an active contributor to the SPE community, he has authored and presented multiple technical papers in the Middle East and Asia. His current focus is bridging traditional drilling practices with sustainable and digital energy solutions.
**Please Note
The price for all tickets will increase to $20 on November 28th to encourage early registration.
Group Discount (10+ People)