Regional Director's Blog

August 2025
 

SPE PetroBowl Regional Qualifier in Baku: Intense Battles, Big Wins, and Student Chapters’ Success Stories

The vibrant city of Baku, Azerbaijan, recently hosted the SPE PetroBowl Regional Qualifier, where seven top university teams competed in a high-energy battle of technical knowledge and quick thinking. Organized by the Society of Petroleum Engineers, the event showcased the brightest minds in petroleum engineering and energy studies.  

The qualifier featured intense, fast-paced matches testing expertise in petroleum engineering, geology, and industry trends. After a thrilling competition, the winners emerged:  

• 1st Place: Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University, Azerbaijan – The home team dominated with deep knowledge and strategy.
• 2nd Place: Kazakh-British Technical University, Kazakhstan – A strong performance secured their spot in the finals. 
• 3rd Place: Tyumen Industrial University, Russia – Recognized for their impressive skills.

ASOIU and KBTU will now represent the region at the PetroBowl Championship Finals during the 2025 SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE) in Houston, Texas later this year. Once again congratulations to all participants, and best of luck to the winning teams as they prepare for the global stage!  

Beyond the competition, I visited all three SPE student chapters in Baku: Khazar University, Baku Higher Oil School, and Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University. The discussions focused on several important aspects:  

• Student needs and how SPE can further support their academic and professional growth.  
• Exclusive opportunities for members, including scholarships, conferences, and global networking.
• Recent chapters’ activities, with special recognition for the outstanding development of SPE student communities in Azerbaijan.  

A Spotlight on Energy Innovation: SPE Sessions Ignite Enthusiasm at Annual Conference in Ashgabat

Ashgabat recently played host to a major gathering of energy experts, students, and professionals at the Turkmenistan Energy Scientific Conference (TESC 2025) organized by Turkmen Energy Forum in collaboration with Turkmenistan’s national energy companies, a forum dedicated to advancing knowledge and collaboration in the energy sector. Among the highlights of the event were 2-days SPE sessions, which drew keen interest from participants eager to explore the latest trends and challenges in the industry.

The SPE sessions at the forum served as a dynamic platform for discussions on cutting-edge technologies, sustainable energy solutions, and career development in petroleum engineering. Experts from around the world shared insights on reservoir management, digital transformation in oil and gas, and the role of innovation in shaping the future of energy.

One of the key strengths of the SPE’s involvement was its ability to connect academia with real-world industry demands. Panel discussions emphasized the importance of research, collaboration, and adapting to global energy transitions. Students from the Yagshygeldi Kakayev International Oil and Gas University SPE Student Chapter in Turkmenistan were especially active, networking with industry experts and leaders.

Beyond the formal presentations, the event fostered a sense of community among SPE members in Ashgabat. Professionals and students alike exchanged ideas, debated energy policies, and explored ways to strengthen Turkmenistan’s role in the global energy landscape. The enthusiasm was palpable, with many participants expressing hope for more such gatherings in the future.

The success of the SPE sessions at the TESC forum underscores the growing importance of knowledge-sharing in Turkmenistan’s energy sector. As the country continues to develop its vast hydrocarbon resources while embracing sustainability, forums like these play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of engineers and leaders.  

For the SPE community in Ashgabat, the event was more than just a conference—it was a stepping stone toward greater collaboration, innovation, and professional growth. With such vibrant engagement, the future of Turkmenistan’s energy industry looks brighter than ever.

Navigating Change: Highlights from Q3 Board Meeting

SPE Board of Directors convened in July 2025, tackling key initiatives across committees. The Membership & Engagement Committee approved impactful changes: the rule change to allow regional qualifying students to compete in finals, even after graduation so long as they’re current members, reviewed dues structures, including associate/YP tiers and multi-year discounts, and positively responded to ‘NextGen – Early Career Lectures’ pilot proposal.

Meanwhile, the Technical Content Committee reshaped SPE’s offerings: discontinuing Instructor-Led Training, sunsetting niche publications, and approved use of the following categories and definitions by SPE globally: Core – Low Carbon – New Energy. Excitingly, the committee endorsed a CCUS conference in the Netherlands and advanced AI policy updates, while focusing on paper quality. 

Regional Directors hold discussions on aligning student fees by country. The committee explored ongoing cost analysis and student membership strategy considering aligning membership fees with professional fees by country.

The Finance Committee grappled with a projected deficit, expecting to have a slight loss of event revenues (registration, exhibition & sponsorship). Staff proposed austerity measures, including program reviews in order to safely navigate the transformation, balancing innovation with fiscal prudence to serve its global community.

Read more at https://www.spe.org/en/about/board/highlights

SPE Completes Caspian Circle: Astrakhan Section Unites Four Littoral Nations

In a historic moment for the oil and gas community, the Society of Petroleum Engineers officially inaugurated its newest professional section in Astrakhan, Russia. This event marked a significant milestone—completing a symbolic circle of SPE sections around the Caspian Sea, uniting four littoral nations: Azerbaijan (SPE Azerbaijan Section), Kazakhstan (SPE Aktau Section, SPE Atyrau Section)), Russia (SPE Astrakhan Section), and Turkmenistan (SPE Ashgabat Section).

Industry veterans and young engineers alike celebrated the occasion, recognizing the potential for joint workshops, research initiatives, and student programs. With this achievement, SPE reinforces its mission to advance oil and gas knowledge while promoting unity among energy professionals across borders. The Astrakhan section’s launch is not just a new chapter for Russia — it’s a testament to the power of collaboration in one of the world’s most dynamic energy landscapes. The Caspian Sea, a shared space for knowledge, resources and progress with nearly 180 years of history, has always connected people geographically — now SPE connects them professionally.

Celebrating Excellence: SPE Russia and Caspian Region’s Award-Winning Professionals, Chapters and Sections

SPE Russia and Caspian region is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of its professionals, student chapters and sections, recognized with prestigious international and regional awards! The hard work, volunteer spirit, and innovative projects have not only earned these accolades but also strengthened the global SPE community. This success is just the beginning — keep pushing boundaries, sharing knowledge, and leading the way!

2025 SPE Russia and Caspian Regional Awards recognize the following members who have contributed exceptional service and leadership to the Society, as well as those who have made major professional contributions to their technical disciplines at the regional level:

• Alina Kireeva, HSE Manager at Schlumberger (Russia) for major professional contributions to the Health, Safety, and Environment discipline
• Dmitriy Leontev, Head of the Department of Oil and Gas Industry Technological Development at Tyumen Industrial University (Russia) for the Distinguished Achievement for Petroleum Engineering Faculty
• Medet Madalimov, Reservoir Engineer at North Caspian Operating Company (Kazakhstan) for major professional contributions to the Reservoir Description and Dynamics discipline
• Gunduz Mahmudov, Drilling Engineer at SOCAR AQS (Azerbaijan) for Young Professional Member Outstanding Service to the Society
• Dmitry Mikhaylov, District Manager for Reservoir Chemical Technologies at Master Chemicals LLC (Russia) for major professional contributions to the Completions Optimization and Technology discipline 
• Sergey Parkhonyuk, Data Science Team Lead at Schlumberger (Russia) for major professional contributions to the Data Science and Engineering Analytics discipline
• Zhambyl Sarbas, Reservoir Engineer at Tengizchevroil (Kazakhstan) for Young Professional Member Outstanding Service to the Society
• Khadisha Ussenbayeva, Water Strategy and Project Delivery Lead at Tengizchevroil (Kazakhstan) for major professional contributions to the Asset Management discipline
• Tengizchevroil (Kazakhstan) for Distinguished Corporate Support

2025 SPE Presidential Award for Outstanding Student Chapters is a recognition of activities, scientific initiatives, and contribution to the development of SPE:

• SPE Satbayev University Student Chapter in the Medium group of student chapters (101-200 members) 

2025 Regional Outstanding Section Award – an award for professionalism, leadership and effective interaction with the industry: 

• SPE Almaty Section in the Small section group (<200 members) 
• SPE Atyrau Section in the Large section group (501+ members) 

Congratulations to the SPE student chapters that have been recognized in the Technical Dissemination and Professional Development category at the regional level: 

• SPE ASOIU Student Chapter in the Large student chapter group (201+ members) 
• Al-Farabi KazNU SPE Student Chapter in the Medium student chapter group (101-200 members)

Alexey Borisenko
SPE Regional Director, Russia and Caspian

May 2025

New Energy: SPE Engages with Future Leaders in Tatarstan

In early March, before attending the SPE Board of Directors Q2 meeting in Buenos Aires, I had the privilege of visiting two key academic hubs in Tatarstan — Almetyevsk and Kazan — where the next generation of oil and gas professionals is being shaped. 

The meeting with Petroleum Higher School of the Almetyevsk State Technological University SPE Student Chapter was attended by students, faculty, and industry representatives, focused on developing future energy leaders through academic-industry partnerships. The visit included a tour of the university’s modern campus, featuring its academic buildings, student dormitories, and cutting-edge laboratory and research facilities. Seeing the hands-on training environment firsthand highlighted how deeply invested Tatarstan is in preparing students for real-world challenges.  The enthusiasm among students was inspiring — many were eager to learn how SPE could help them bridge the gap between academia and industry. The event reinforced the importance of international cooperation in shaping well-rounded, globally competitive professionals.  

From Almetyevsk, the journey continued to Kazan Federal University, one of Russia’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. Here, the Institute of Geology and Petroleum Technologies welcomed SPE for another impactful engagement.  The visit began with a tour of the A.A. Stuckenberg Geological Museum founded in 1805, where rare mineral collections and fossil exhibits showcased the rich geological heritage of the region. Next, we explored the university’s advanced research labs, where students work on innovative EOR techniques, digital field modeling, and sustainable extraction methods.  At the interactive session with students we discussed how SPE accelerates career growth, the value of global knowledge exchange through SPE webinars, papers, and events, and also the opportunities to participate in international student competitions like PetroBowl and Student Paper Contest.

Advancing SPE’s Future: Q2 Board Meeting

The SPE Board of Directors Q2 meeting preceded by YPF company office visit in Buenos Aires. YPF is Argentina's leading energy company and the largest shale oil producer in the country. It operates across the entire energy value chain, with a major presence in Vaca Muerta, dominance in refining and power generation, and growing investments in renewable energy. YPF's ongoing efforts include its "Plan 4x4", which aims to enhance efficiency across all operations through AI implementation, with the goal of generating $30 billion in exports by 2030. This was another great opportunity to learn about the progress of digital transformation in Argentina.

During the SPE Board of Directors Q2 meeting we made significant progress across all major topics. The Membership and Engagement Committee discussed advisory body establishment, and created a fund allocation process for international student contests participation support. The Technical Content Committee reviewed updates on OnePetro subscription and 2025 SPE ATCE planning. A new workgroup was formed to strategically evaluate future events. For Regional Directors, the Board simplified the Technical Section sign-up process to an opt-out model and emphasized leadership roles for Young Professionals. Discussions also covered refining Regional Awards and exploring SPE’s potential collaborations with data platforms. In Finance, the Board reviewed SPE’s investment portfolio and approved the sponsorship program development. The Audit Committee discussed cybersecurity updates and 2025 audit preparations.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the SPE Argentine Petroleum Section, SPE Golfo San Jorge Section, and SPE Patagonia Section for their exceptional hospitality and warm welcome during the Board's visit to Argentina. Their generosity and support made the stay truly memorable.

The First SPE Live Regional Director Episode: Innovation in the Russia and Caspian Region

In the insightful first episode of the SPE Live Regional Director series, with my guest - Zhambyl Sarbas -Chairperson of the SPE Atyrau Section, - we dived into the evolving energy landscape of the Russia and Caspian region. This insightful discussion covered market trends, cutting-edge technologies, sustainability efforts, and the ongoing energy transition — highlighting the forces driving the industry forward. Watch the full episode (https://streaming.spe.org/spe-live-regional-director-series-innovation-in-the-russia-and-caspian-region) and discover the latest SPE programs, initiatives, and member benefits in the region, from technical workshops to leadership development and global networking opportunities. Whether you're an experienced professional or an early-career engineer, this episode offers valuable knowledge on how SPE supports growth and innovation in the energy sector.

SPE Student Paper Contest: Top Student Researchers Advance on Regional Level

On April 28th the jury of industrial experts have selected the regional winners of 2025 SPE Student Paper Contests. Top presenters advance to the prestigious international stage at this year’s Annual Technical Conference & Exhibition in Houston, USA. The competition, held across 14 regions worldwide, challenges undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students to present cutting-edge research in petroleum engineering and energy sciences. After submitting abstracts and delivering presentations at regional levels, the highest-scoring contestants have secured their spots in the international finals. Winners will present full papers at 2025 SPE ATCE, facing off for top honors in their academic categories.

The SPE Student Paper Contest is more than a competition—it’s a launchpad for the next generation of energy innovators. These students bring fresh perspectives to critical industry challenges, and we’re proud to showcase their work on an international stage.

Congratulations to Nurassyl Zhumabayev from Nazarbayev University who will represent our region in Bachelor’s Division on international level!

Science, Competition, and Collaboration: SPE’s Dynamic Presence in Siberia

On my trip to Siberia I visited SPE community in Novosibirsk and Tomsk.- key scientific hubs in Russia. Novosibirsk hosts Akademgorodok, a renowned research center with institutes in physics, biology, and IT. Tomsk, home to leading universities and innovation parks, excels in nuclear physics and materials science. Both cities drive Russia’s advancements in technology, education, and global scientific collaboration.

This time, SPE Novosibirsk Section and Novosibirsk State University SPE Student Chapter organized an exceptional GeoQuiz challenge, bringing together over 10 interdisciplinary teams. The event was a perfect demonstration of how science can be both fun and engaging through a game-like format. It also served as excellent preparation for the upcoming 2025 PetroBowl Regional Qualifier, which will take place on May 24th in Baku, Azerbaijan. We can't wait for the contest to begin!

The visit to Tomsk reinforced collaboration with the SPE Tomsk Section and Tomsk Polytechnic University SPE Student Chapter, which have been active since 2003. Tomsk’s vibrant academic environment collaborates with the SPE professional community to nurture future industry leaders through knowledge-sharing, innovation, and networking. This synergy enhances technical expertise, fosters research, and prepares students and young professionals for global energy challenges.

As SPE continues to expand its presence across the Russia and Caspian region, one thing is clear: the next generation of energy leaders is already rising.

Alexey Borisenko
SPE Regional Director, Russia and Caspian

January 2025

The New Year Begins 

The new year begins with the new charter in the SPE Russia and Caspian region development story. On the way to the SPE Board of Directors Q1 meeting in Abu Dhabi I decided to visit the old capital of Kazakhstan, Almaty. Unique people, amazing landscape, and soft climate make Almaty the place you want to come again and again: in spring, summer, fall and winter. 

The history of SPE in Almaty begins in early 2000s when the group of enthusiastic people from academia decided to open the first SPE student chapter in Satbayev University. More than 20 years past but these knowledgeable and dedicated SPE members continue to pursue their ultimate goal to make Almaty a hub of technical knowledge collection and dissemination throughout our region. SPE Almaty professional section is the one of actively growing, it also has four active student chapters in local universities: Satbayev University, Kazakh-British Technical University, Caspian University and Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. 

During the meetings we were discussing current activities and plans for SPE future development with more than 200 people potential for professional section and thousands of students from the energy related faculties of all four universities. Special guest from Saudi Arabia, Sultan Sarhani, shared his personal experience in SPE and the industry since he was a vice-president of SPE King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals Student Chapter in 2008-2009 until now as a lead petroleum engineer in Aramco.
The concrete base for future activities is strong academia support as well as engagement with the industry leaders widely represented in Almaty. Indeed, this city is the one which can offer many opportunities for mutually beneficial collaboration. 

Another milestone event in SPE Russia and Caspian region was held in Baku, Azerbaijan on January 30-31. Long awaited workshop “Exploring Past Experience & Innovative EOR Technologies” brought together over 45 professionals from 10 different countries and 14 diverse enterprises, fostering collaboration and innovation in EOR. We will continue to advance frontiers of EOR technologies in our region.

A Legacy of Innovation 

The Board Q1 meeting in Abu Dhabi started with fruitful 2-days tour to ADNOC. The future company journey began in 1935 when the first geological survey took place. In 1937 His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan led an expedition of 16 tribesmen to the south-west of Abu Dhabi, where his vision for the development of the UAE’s oil and gas resources was born. Starting small, the company quickly made waves with its business, setting the stage for decades of growth and innovation. ADNOC has played a meaningful and enduring role in driving the progress and advancement of UAE. Starting as an upstream onshore and offshore oil and gas operator, it rapidly grew into a diversified group of companies dedicated to powering life through energy.

Today, ADNOC operates across the downstream sector, explore and develop new gas resources, and leverage robust marketing, supply, and trading expertise. As it looks to the future, the company remains dedicated to its founding values, continuing to shape the energy industry and inspire the next generation of innovation. 
ADNOC’s Panorama digital command center abilities were demonstrated. It aggregates real-time information across ADNOC’s 14 specialist subsidiary and joint venture companies and uses smart analytical models, AI, and big data to generate operational insights and recommendations. Another great project called Thamama Center of Excellence (or Thamama). Located in ADNOC’s headquarters, the state-of-the-art hub brings together ADNOC’s leading subsurface experts and leverages big data, cutting-edge digitalization, and smart analytics to help access hydrocarbon resources and unlock greater value from existing reservoirs. Several projects were overviewed including: 

• AR360. Developed by AIQ with SLB as part of ENERGYai, ADNOC’s artificial intelligence and digital technology strategy, AR360 uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies to improve reservoir management and optimize field development planning.  
• iPSO - Integrated Production System Optimization 
• RoboWell - AIQ’s pioneering artificial intelligence (AI) autonomous well-control solution. It uses cloud-based AI algorithms to autonomously operate wells that self-adjust according to changing conditions 

 
SPE Board also visited Al Reyadha Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage facility. The facility has the capacity to process up to 800,000 tons of CO₂ per year captured at Emirates Steel Arkan, and it is the world's first commercial capture from iron and steel industry. Later that day we visited ADNOC research and innovation center laboratories (cores, fluids, materials) dedicated to advancing knowledge, developing new technologies, and solving complex challenges for the industry. 

The Board 

Our organization internal mechanisms are being very well presented by 2025 SPE President, Olivier Houzé, in his monthly JPT column - https://connect.spe.org/president-column. I recommend to read all of them especially if You just joined SPE. During the January Board meeting we continued discussions on the hottest topics such as energy transition, finances, governance, membership, and quality. Important decisions for 2025 were made. Some of them will be directed to the membership by the mid-year. Stay tuned!
  
Besides the Board duties we had a chance to know about history and traditions of UAE via unforgettable desert tour organized by SPE Abu Dhabi Section and SPE Northern Emirates Section for all the Board members. In turn, the Board invited section officers to participate on the last meeting day, to look at SPE from within, to share their thoughts and suggestions. Lots of attention was paid to the discussion of students and YPs programs' improvement as this directly affects the future of our industry and SPE.
 
SPE Russia and Caspian is the one of the "youngest" regions in SPE, and I personally believe that we can achieve even more sustainable future for SPE with constant feedback from our young members. Share Your thoughts and insights about the future of SPE, and how SPE can improve current student and YPs programs for smooth student-to-professional transition. Text me in direct message https://t.me/borisenko_ru and join our regional channel https://t.me/sperussiacaspian .

Alexey Borisenko
SPE Regional Director, Russia and Caspian

December 2024

2024 SPE CTCE, Workshops, and Meetings: Summary of My November Trip to Kazakhstan 

Another productive and one of the busiest weeks this year! During my recent trip to Mangystau and Atyrau Regions of Kazakhstan, I was excited to meet with the SPE Aktau Section and Yessenov University SPE Student Chapter. I had the privilege of opening the 2024 SPE Students Development Summit (SDS) and the Energy4me program training session. Additionally, I served on the Executive Committee of the 2024 SPE Annual Caspian Technical Conference and Exhibition, welcomed the SPE Russia and Caspian Regional Awards winners, moderated the 2025 SPE President session at SDS, and conducted a session for leaders of our regional professional sections during SPE Russia and Caspian Regional Sections Officers Workshop. I also met with the SPE Atyrau Section, delivered a technical lecture for the section and student chapter members as part of SPE Russia and Caspian Regional Lecturers program, and was pleased to be invited by the rector of Atyrau Oil and Gas University to introduce the activities of the SPE Student Chapter during the first-year students’ clubs festival!  

The trip began in Aktau, where we met with SPE Aktau Section over the weekend to discuss ideas for further developing the community of oil and gas professionals in the Mangystau region. This included the implementation of the regional technical program, “SPE Russia and Caspian Regional Lecturers,” designed to address specific challenges in the development of oil and gas fields in the region. The section leadership team's efforts and achievements were highlighted. There is no doubt the SPE Aktau Section will continue to serve as the main platform for SPE members, oil and gas companies, universities, educators, and the Aktau city community to exchange knowledge about vital topics related to sustainable energy projects. These efforts will not only benefit the Mangystau region but also extend across Kazakhstan and beyond!  

The 2024 SPE CTCE week opened on Monday morning, where I had the chance to speak to an incredible group of 44 young, active, and enthusiastic individuals—SPE Student Chapters’ members from the SPE Russia and Caspian Region, representing Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The next generation of oil and gas professionals honed their communication skills, practiced networking and team-building, prepared and defended their ideas in a project competition, listened to world-class speakers at CTCE, and most importantly, formed new friendships that will last for years to come. During the conference, students had the chance to engage with Olivier Houzé, the 2025 SPE President, asking him a variety of questions about his career trajectory, his path in SPE and the industry, and the role of SPE in developing solutions for current challenges.  

The Energy4me workshop started with my opening remarks to schoolteachers, where I emphasized the importance of promoting fact-based oil and gas education promotion. The Energy4me program is designed to create interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers for the younger generation. Energy education is not a topic that is widely taught in school systems globally.  

For the first time in Atyrau, the 2024 edition of the SPE Annual Caspian Technical Conference and Exhibition opened with welcome remarks of the Executive Committee Chair, Ruslan Balykbayev, Deputy Chairman of the Management Board, KMG, Nurzhan Yermukhanov, Deputy Akim of Atyrau City, Gulzada Shakulikova, Chairman of the Board-Rector of Atyrau Oil and Gas University, and Olivier Houzé, 2025 SPE President. Special thanks go to all the sponsors of the 2024 SPE CTCE, whose efforts and support made this event possible: KazMunayGas, NCOC, Tengizchevroil, Baker Hughes, Chevron, CNPC, SLB, TotalEnergies, ExxonMobil, QazaqGaz, NOV, INPEX, SOCAR, Atyrau Oil and Gas University, Halyk Bank, and KAZENERGY. 

At the end of the opening session, the 2024 SPE Russia and Caspian Regional Awards ceremony took place. Nearly 1,600 SPE members in our region anticipate this unique opportunity for professional recognition each year! Congratulations to this year's winners:

• Marat Nukhaev: Regional Completions Optimization and Technology Award, SK Alfa Horizont LLC
• Duman Akhmetov: Regional Formation Evaluation Award, JV "Kazgermunai" LLP
• Nikita Dadakin: Regional Production and Operations Award, RN-KrasnoyarskNIPIneft
• Yerkin Balgaziyev: Regional Service Award, Kom-Munai
• Nurbol Nogerbek: Regional Young Professional Outstanding Service Award, North Caspian Operating Company N.V.  

An important annual event for our regional professional SPE sections is the Sections Officers Workshop. This years' workshop, held during 2024 SPE CTCE, was a great success. The workshop featured in-depth discussions on SPE sections' operational activities, SPE programs implementation, student program support, technical program development, in-person meetings, and member networking and collaboration. These topics are all essential for the continued development of local professional communities, which play a vital role in advancing the industry and enhancing the skills and expertise of SPE members.

Our meeting with SPE Atyrau Section members included a technical talk as part of the SPE Russia and Caspian Regional Lecturers program. During the first part of the meeting, SPE members learned about SPE activities in the region and the various opportunities available for professional development, including volunteering at local, regional, and international levels. The second part featured a technical lecture on the history of reservoir stimulation fluids, current development trends, and associated challenges. The meeting concluded with very positive feedback!  

On the last day of this incredible week, I was invited to Atyrau Oil and Gas University, named after Safi Utebayev. The university, established in 1959 as an educational and consulting center of the All-Union Correspondence Polytechnic Institute, has a rich 65-year history. A significant milestone was its selection as the venue for the 2024 SPE CTCE. During the event, I spoke about SPE programs for students, the support available to Utebayev University SPE Student Chapter members, and future activities aimed at integrating the chapter into regional and international SPE programs. It was an amazing evening, and I extend my special thanks to Gulzada Shakulikova, Chairman of the Board-Rector of Atyrau Oil and Gas University, for the opportunity to engage with students and faculty members.

I look forward to seeing all the companies, universities, professionals, students, speakers, and teachers across our region and beyond at the 12th edition of SPE CTCE next year in Baku!