Dear Editor,
I must commend oil and gas companies for maintaining the locals first approach in operations within the sector, in full compliance with the local content legislation. Recent announcements from several operators signal that this commitment is more than just lip service and that real progress is being made in workforce development.
It was recently announced that more than 65% of the crew aboard the drillships Stena Carron and Stena DrillMAX are now Guyanese nationals. Meanwhile, Japanese company MODEC, following its 2024 entry has indicated that by the end of 2026 we will see an increase of over 230 Guyanese being employed to support operations in the country. Likewise, Saipem Guyana’s operations at its Vreed-en-Hoop shore base have reported that 80% of the 220 employees are Guyanese.
This progress is noteworthy, since initial conversations surrounding local content requirements by oil and gas companies were met with some resistance and concern. It is very encouraging to see how far we have come since those early discussions, with companies not only overcoming their initial reservations but now actively investing in local workforce development.
What stands out is that Guyanese are not only being hired but are positioned in integral roles within both offshore and onshore operations. Some of them serve as Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Officers, Production Engineers, Procurement Coordinators, Control Room Operators, all roles that require discipline, technical competence, and long-term commitment.
As continued investments are made in training and mentorship, increased exposure will allow Guyanese workers to fill the labour gaps as the oil and gas sector grows.
It is clearer now that when given the opportunity, local talent delivers. I look forward to hearing more about how Guyanese are involved in the oil and gas sector and the continued success of our country’s rapid development.
Respectfully,
Samantha Browne
