A Journey That Started With "Why Not?"
When I first joined SPE, it was an intuitive step—something I decided to try without fully realizing where it might lead. It wasn’t part of a grand career plan. It was curiosity. Exploration.
Today, I can confidently say that SPE is a part of my professional DNA.
A Community That Shapes More Than Careers
Starting my career at the age of 18 while still studying was already a challenge—and that’s when I first discovered the SPE community.
For many of us entering the energy industry, the path is filled with technical learning, constant adaptation, and ongoing professional development. But SPE offers more than technical resources or industry insights—it offers a global community that empowers you to grow far beyond your initial expectations.
Through SPE, I’ve not only gained access to cutting-edge knowledge and evolving technologies, but also discovered a place where ideas are born, careers are shaped, and the future of energy is actively reimagined. Most importantly, I’ve met people who believe in changes—and inspire others to become part of that change.
New Worlds, Shared Knowledge: Highlights From the Past Year
Italy—SPE Summer School on Geothermal Energy
The SPE summer school in Turin, Italy, offered a comprehensive and multidisciplinary introduction to geothermal energy systems. Students were introduced to the fundamentals of geology, hydrogeology, and applied geophysics to understand geothermal reservoir characterization including extent, fluid dynamics, temperature, and production potential.
The use of geothermal resources for electricity production is growing in many countries worldwide and, due to the broad range of skills required, it represents an interesting career opportunity for MSc students in chemical engineering, engineering geology, environmental engineering, geology, geo-resources/geo-energy/petroleum and mining engineering, and energy engineering.
The summer school was held in collaboration with the SPE Europe Energy Conference & Exhibition, held in Turin in June 2024. The program, consisting of online lectures (April to May 2024), teamwork, and a guided tour of the geothermal power plants of Enel Green Power in Larderello (Pisa, Italy), covered aspects of energy production from geothermal resources. The summer school was open to 25 international students.
We explored various types of geothermal systems (dry steam, wet steam, dominant liquid, hot dry rock, and enhanced geothermal systems), as well as plant technologies such as dry steam, flash, and binary systems. A particular focus was placed on binary cycle plants and Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) turbines, which can be applied to a broader range of locations.
The program emphasized the potential to reuse depleted oil and gas wells for geothermal energy, offering a bridge between traditional and renewable energy practices. Simplified models were introduced for the preliminary techno-economic evaluation of geothermal plants. We also studied flow and heat transfer in porous and fractured media, and learned to use the FEFLOW finite element simulation tool for evaluating well field performance.
Finally, the program covered environmental impacts, most notably land subsidence, and concluded with a team project, where participants worked on the feasibility assessment and field simulation of a geothermal site.
This experience was a powerful mix of theory, practice, and collaboration, reinforcing the value of geothermal energy in the energy transition. Special thanks to all of the lecturers who participated in the summer school.
France—SPE Beyond the Borders Program
SPE Beyond the Borders (BtB) held in Paris in March, was a vibrant event dedicated to the role of young professionals in the global energy transition. Together with colleagues Yurii Moroz and Viacheslav Filatov, we were proud to represent the SPE Central Ukraine Section.
The program highlighted how young professionals are contributing to innovation, renewable energy growth, sustainability advocacy, and cross-border collaboration. We had the honor of visiting the headquarters of TotalEnergies and the SLB Center in Paris, where we explored breakthrough technologies and listened to engaging workshops and talks from industry leaders.
BtB brought together a strong line-up of speakers, panelists, and experts from across Europe. We explored a wide range of issues through lectures, technical discussions, interactive workshops, and cultural networking events. Key topics included:
- Climate challenges—Addressing what is expected from future energy professionals
- SPE’s role in knowledge sharing and global collaboration
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion in the energy sector
- Sustainable leadership and cross-sector innovation
A special moment was the celebration of SPE’s France Section’s 40th anniversary, held at the iconic Museum of Science and Technology. This provided an opportunity to connect with senior executives and gain inspiration from the industry's best. It was both a ceremonial and networking milestone—featuring speeches from industry leaders, moments of reflection on progress, and a vision for the future of energy shaped by collaboration and diversity.
The experience served as a powerful example of what a strong SPE section can achieve. It motivated us to enhance SPE Central Ukraine’s activities and deepen engagement with young professionals. The future is collaborative—and it begins now. We returned not only with knowledge but with motivation—and we look forward to welcoming SPE leaders to Ukraine, continuing the BtB spirit of energy, exchange, and empowerment.
More Than a Network: A Platform for Growth
SPE, to me, represents three key pillars:
- Growth: Continuous learning through programs, papers, and people
- Support: Mentorship, encouragement, and a shared passion for progress
- Empowerment: The chance to contribute, lead, and shape the future of energy
This isn’t just a network, it’s a journey. One where I grow and help others grow in return. One where ideas turn into action, and actions drive real change.
Advice for Young Professionals Considering Joining SPE
1. Say yes to opportunities. Whether it's a webinar, local meeting, or international program, involvement is the first step toward growth.
2. Connect and collaborate. Reach out to peers, mentors, and industry leaders. The SPE network is full of people who want to see you succeed.
3. Stay curious. The energy industry is evolving rapidly. Use SPE resources to stay informed and inspired.
4. Give back. Contribute to the community, volunteer, share knowledge. SPE thrives when its members engage with purpose.
Looking Ahead: The Journey Continues
I’m deeply grateful to the SPE community for every opportunity, conversation, and challenge that has pushed me forward. These past experiences are just the beginning of a long-term commitment to sustainability, collaboration, and innovation in energy.
The future of our industry is not only about resources beneath the ground—it's about the people rising above it.
Let’s keep building it, together.
