Traditional Expertise, Technological Development to Drive Growth

Q: How do you see the future of Mexico’s oil and gas sector evolving? How does the association stay up to date with the industry’s needs?

A: The industry continues to grow and has adapted its approach to discovering new reserves. Companies are increasingly acquiring already explored reserves, leading to a lot of mergers and acquisitions. In Mexico, the industry is mainly characterized by a state-owned enterprise aligned with the national strategy. However, growth is limited by the state’s investment capacity.

AIMP, established in 1958, supports the industry in Mexico, not only with petroleum engineers but also with engineers from related fields. We work closely with the national industry and PEMEX, while also welcoming members from across the sector. Our association has evolved over time to include a diverse membership, not just from PEMEX. We currently have around 2,200 members, ranging from highly experienced retirees to new industry entrants, all contributing their expertise. This dynamic environment fosters continuous growth. We also maintain important synergies with other professional associations in the petroleum industry, each with its own goals, but all working toward strengthening the sector.

Q: Given the increasing complexity of oil and gas operations, how is AIPM addressing the demand for new skills and expertise in exploration, extraction, and refining?

A: The oil and gas industry has always been at the forefront of technological advancements across all areas, including equipment, systems, and digital technologies. Recently, the incorporation of artificial intelligence has become particularly significant. The ability to manage larger volumes of data has brought us closer to the subsurface, improving seismic acquisition, processing, and interpretation, as well as the generation of reservoir models. These advancements continue to evolve rapidly.

The increasing use of complex algorithms and data management technologies is transforming the industry, enabling greater certainty and risk reduction. Today's specialists must be proficient in these technologies, which support the physical operations we know, such as drilling and hydrocarbon extraction. With better data, we can enhance operational efficiency and reduce risks.

Through its activities, AIPM brings together individuals with ample experience in traditional processes, while also integrating cutting-edge technological developments. One of the key platforms for this integration is the Mexican Petroleum Congress (CMP), organized jointly by five professional associations. This event serves as a vital forum to expose our members to the latest technologies and provides opportunities for collaboration with various suppliers. The congress, scheduled for June 2025 in Acapulco, will be a major event in preparing our members for the future of the industry.

Q: Traditionally, companies bring experienced engineers from overseas to supervise operations and train local teams. How is that trend changing and how are local capabilities growing to match the sector’s needs, particularly in Mexico’s key focus areas?

A: Each company has its own approach to talent acquisition. From PEMEX, there have been ongoing efforts to strengthen the workforce by hiring young professionals, some straight out of school and others with a bit more experience. These programs focus on providing a deep understanding of the industry, with specific tracks for various disciplines. The goal is for these individuals to bring fresh knowledge while also learning the operational processes. As they grow within the company, they can specialize in specific areas. For example, at PEMEX, there are currently 90 specialties in production alone, with potential for many more when considering more specific areas.

Other companies are also agile in attracting new talent, identifying candidates at the university level. Their induction programs are robust, allowing for a gradual learning curve to build a solid foundation, as fresh graduates often lack the depth needed for decision-making or analysis, especially in the oil and gas sector.

At AIPM, we also work to attract young members from a variety of companies, including E&P suppliers and operators already established in Mexico. This broader inclusion has led to a shift in how we engage with the industry. In the past, the relationship was largely one of suppliers and clients. Now, all participants are seen as equals. We interact as peers and engineers, regardless of hierarchy or commercial interests, which fosters valuable knowledge exchange and strengthens technical collaboration. This approach is a key aspect of the association’s role.

Q: What are the challenges in maintaining competitiveness while adapting to increasing international standards, including corporate ESG and safety regulations?

A: We have always adhered to these standards, both in engineering and in safety, hygiene, and environmental care. Therefore, for us, it is not entirely new. We have consistently grown and adapted to these changes. 

While regulatory frameworks in Mexico have evolved, we continue with the same practices we have always followed. We comply with regulations, adapt, and provide the necessary information as required. From an engineering perspective, which is our primary concern as an association in Mexico, we understand that our professionals are well-prepared. However, it is essential to comply, not because we are forced to, but because it is the most efficient way to operate. For example, in well design, we have adapted to new regulations that enable us to achieve more complex wells at lower costs and in shorter timelines. Thus, we continue to build on the practices that have been part of our industry’s evolution for many years.

Q: Could you elaborate on other projects you are driving that you are excited about?

A: One of the most important aspects for our association is our approach to include all members of the industry. We do not limit ourselves to PEMEX or exploration and production operators. In recent years, we have increasingly welcomed companies from across the entire value chain, including small businesses that are closely linked to larger ones. These smaller companies, which often have valuable technical capabilities, are now becoming more active members because they recognize the importance of interacting and being peers within the industry. 

The technical skills and execution capacity of smaller companies are just as valid, and they now can engage with others in the association and at CMP. This event promotes not only technical work, with approximately 250 technical presentations selected through a rigorous evaluation process, but also an industrial exhibition. The exhibition features over 150 companies showcasing various equipment, systems, software, and hardware. The Congress provides an invaluable platform where companies of all sizes can meet, interact, and contribute to the industry.

Q: What is your vision for the upcoming edition of CMP?

A: With "Efficiency, Innovation, and Sustainability" as its theme, we are addressing the key challenges currently facing the oil and gas industry. Efficiency is crucial, as we must increasingly work faster to explore and exploit hydrocarbons while reducing costs. At the same time, we must ensure we do not harm the environment and that we safeguard resources for future generations. This provides the full context for the 2025 Acapulco Congress. 

We are committed to staying at the forefront of global trends. We work closely with the most important international companies to ensure they participate, and we pride ourselves on being one of the leading events in Latin America, even competing at the global level with the best industry events. 

We expect over 7,000 attendees, all with a strong connection to the industry and a shared interest in showcasing the latest advancements. The Acapulco 2025 Congress will build on the success and experiences of previous editions, with collaboration from five key industry associations. We chose Acapulco because of its international recognition, beauty, and world-class infrastructure, which make it an ideal location for an event of this magnitude. Despite challenges like the hurricane last year, we are confident in the resilience of the people of Guerrero and are committed to supporting the recovery of Acapulco. We are sure that this congress will be a success.

The Mexican Oil Engineers’ Association (AIPM) serves as a bridge between professionals, industry stakeholders, and academic institutions, contributing to the exchange of knowledge and fostering collaboration. Through its various initiatives, including conferences, technical events, and its extensive network, AIPM aims to enhance the skills and qualifications of engineers working in the oil and gas field.