felix-fernando-testimonial

Introduction

Pre-qualification is a key step in contractor and vendor management and compliance across the entire oil and gas value chain. We spoke with Felix, who joined Brunel Kuwait in 2016, about his career progression from entry-level inspector to pre-qualification specialist. His journey is a testament to the growth and opportunities that the industry offers.

As part of his role, Felix occasionally travels and has represented clients at vendor pre-inspection meetings in South Korea, Singapore, China and India, where he played a pivotal role in ensuring the successful completion of major projects.

Pre-qualification isn't just a step; it's the bedrock of ensuring excellence and compliance in the oil and gas industry. With over two decades in the field, I've witnessed its transformative power firsthand.

Quote 2

Hi Felix! You have 18 years of experience in the upstream oil and gas industry. What was your initial role in this sector, and how has your career evolved over the years?

Yes, that’s correct. I've been working in Kuwait's oil and gas industry for 25 years. I began my career as an entry-level inspector, then advanced to inspection engineer, lead QA/QC engineer, and ultimately to my current role as pre-qualification specialist.

What are your responsibilities as a pre-qualification specialist?

I am part of the supplier relationship management team, a role I have held since September 2017. My key responsibilities include reviewing pre-qualification documents and coordinating with various departments, such as Accounts Payable, the Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Department, Rig Contracts Management, Drilling and Workover, and Production Operations to ensure compliance and effective follow-up. I also work with both local and international contractors, providing guidance on pre-qualification requirements and the criteria for shortlisting. This involves clarifying expectations for document submissions and facilitating smooth communication between teams.

What makes your work special?

I am employed at a company that is central to Kuwait’s economy and energy sector, overseeing one of the world’s largest oil fields. Additionally, I lead the training of upstream development engineers in Kuwait, focusing on the pre-qualification process, and find great satisfaction in sharing my expertise.

Can you share a career highlight with us?

My career has been marked by several notable achievements. For example, I co-authored a research paper titled "Sacrificial Cathodic Protection (CP) System Inadequacy Due to 2-Phase Operation of a 3-Phase Gas/Oil Separator." This paper was presented at the International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC) in 2010.

I have also contributed to significant projects, including recommending the re-bottoming of crude storage tanks. Re-bottoming involves replacing or repairing the bottom of a tank, often used to store crude oil, to extend its lifespan and ensure safety. This process is critical for maintaining the integrity and reliability of oil storage infrastructure.

What are the emerging trends in pre-qualification within the oil and gas industry?

Digitalisation and automation are set to revolutionise this sector, much as they have others. The integration of digital tools and automated systems is expected to enhance the efficiency and precision of vendor assessment and pre-qualification processes. Moreover, there is a noticeable shift towards incorporating environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria into the pre-qualification standards for vendors and contractors. This shift is in line with the industry’s increasing commitment to sustainability.