OPITO Petrochemical Challenge

Three high flying Hamilton Grammar S6 pupils took part in the OPITO Petrochemical Challenge held at the University of Glasgow. The challenge involved reading and interpreting seismic and geological data in order to find rich oil seams that are then targeted for drilling.

Working as a team the three pupils, Isaac Carswell, Nicholas Seaton, and Steven Seaton then had to bid for licenses to drill offshore in the simulation. They then drilled wildcat holes and find out if they had struck Black Gold. Even if they did that was only the start of their problems! They had to check the water depth and hire appropriate rigs to drill the oil, and have service providers to fly the crews out offshore and feed them. They also had to invest in rival companies to help their return on investment (ROI).

The practice day went well with Hamilton Grammar coming in 2nd with a ROI of 2,000%. In the real competition the lads didn’t do quite as well after coming up dry in the first round (in real life we were told 4 in 5 prospects are dry) but fought back using business acumen to record a healthy ROI of 450%.

This was a great way to encourage pupils who wish to go down the STEM route (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics). I thought we would do well as we had an Advanced Higher Chemist, and Advanced Higher Mathematician, and our trump card a Texan!
A range of skills and careers were given a practical spin in this brilliant event. Hopefully next year our school will go back and come top of the pile.