Society of Petroleum Engineers - Distinguished Lecturer Program

"Ten Secrets of Production Optimization Using Artificial Intelligence (AI)"

Alexander (Sandy) Williams, ChampionX

Abstract

Production optimization lends itself nicely to the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) because computers are very good at monitoring surveillance data, spotting changes in operating parameters, and carrying out boring, repetitive tasks.

By combining real-time data, production tests, and nodal analysis with artificial intelligence, it is possible for computers to perform powerful well surveillance to identify problems and opportunities automatically. By capitalizing on AI, engineers can boost well production 6–8%.

The use of AI allows engineers to manage many more wells effectively. Case studies will be presented to show how AI has been used to perform simple tasks and even advanced pattern recognition to identify specific well problems. This lecture will provide ten secrets of how to be successful in using AI to optimize your producing wells.

Biography

Alexander “Sandy” Williams has worked in the petroleum industry for 34 years. He founded Artificial Lift Performance Ltd. (ALP), which is now a part of ChampionX. ALP developed a software application to help operators monitor, analyze, and optimize wells using artificial lift. This software has empowered engineers to make decisions quickly to maximize production of more than 6,000 wells.

Sandy began his career at Amoco, then worked at Phoenix Schlumberger Artificial Lift before becoming a consultant focused on artificial lift and production optimization. He has worked and lived in the USA, Oman, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Colombia, so he is fluent in Spanish. He has taught over 200 courses related to production optimization and artificial lift and has authored 15 technical papers on those subjects.

The Wyoming Geological Association is planning on hosting a field conference in Kemmerer, Wyoming Friday 5/29/2026 through Sunday 5/31/2026.  More details will be forthcoming.