08/20/2026
Some may argue that the growing role of technology is beginning to overshadow the importance of real-world experience onboard a vessel. We couldn’t disagree more.
While technology continues to provide valuable tools and capabilities, the knowledge, experience, and judgment of skilled personnel onboard remain among the most critical assets in our industry.
Recently, during pre-deployment testing of a BOP in the Gulf of America, operator testing indicated that all components were functioning as expected. However, our Subsea Solutions technicians onboard noticed some irregular behavior during testing.
A deeper investigation revealed a small amount of control fluid leaking from the relief valve on the annular assembly.
That observation led to further disassembly and inspection, where scarring was discovered on the piston. The damage was preventing the elastomers from achieving a proper seal.
The piston and elastomers were replaced, and the annular subsequently passed testing without any further issues.
This is a great example of why experience matters.
Technology can be an incredibly valuable tool, but it cannot replace the years of hands-on, real-world experience required to recognize the subtle signs that something may not be quite right.
In an industry where safety, reliability, and performance are critical, experience and technology work best together — not one instead of the other.
