Helmerich & Payne, Inc. (H&P) and the Saudi Arabia Drilling Academy (SADA) inked their partnership at a signing and graduation ceremony held in Abqaiq, Saudi Arabia last month. Nick Nawfal, vice president of middle east and northern Africa (MENA) business development at H&P, as well as a charter committee member of SADA, attended on H&P’s behalf.
His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, governor of the Eastern Province attended the ceremony celebrating the graduation of 356 trainees from various specializations.
The training institute focuses on preparing a Saudi workforce for the evolving demands found in the area’s drilling and workover industry. They play a pivotal role in developing area talent and equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel.
"We appreciate the opportunity to partner with SADA and support the vital role they play in workforce development. As we grow our presence in Saudi, this initiative helps to ensure highly skilled workers, steeped in HSE standards, will be prepared for the job on day one,” said John Lindsay, president and chief executive officer of H&P.
Earlier this year, H&P announced a total of eight rigs were awarded contracts with Saudi Aramco. Most of those rigs are expected to commence operations later this calendar year (2024).