INTRODUCTION
Job Title: Electrical Technician
Name: George Oake
Company Overview: George Oake is an Electrical Technician at Husky Energy, where he plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of electrical systems on offshore facilities. His extensive experience allows him to tackle daily challenges while enhancing his technical knowledge.
Job Overview
George’s primary responsibilities involve troubleshooting and repairing all electrical equipment on the SeaRose Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) unit. He carries out electrical isolations to enable other disciplines to work safely on equipment like pumps and compressors. His role also includes regular maintenance of electrical systems to prevent breakdowns and identify potential issues. George’s work environment can be challenging, with adverse weather conditions such as storms and fog, necessitating a strong focus on safety and risk management.
Career Path
George’s educational background includes a three-year diploma in Electrical Engineering Technology and a three-year diploma in Instrumentation Engineering Technology from the College of the North Atlantic, following two years of General Studies at Memorial University. His academic excellence earned him the “President's Award of Academic Excellence” for graduating with the highest average in his program. George's interest in troubleshooting and creating solutions was sparked during his studies, leading him to pursue a career in electrical engineering.
Day in the Life
George works on a 21/21 rotation, where he spends 12 hours a day on-site for 21 consecutive days, followed by 21 days off. His job has taken him to various locations worldwide, including the North Sea and the Grand Banks of Newfoundland & Labrador. He travels about 400 km from St. John's, followed by a 1½ hour helicopter flight to his offshore site. His typical day involves not just maintenance work but also managing and coordinating with other teams to ensure a safe and efficient work environment.
Skills and Tools
Technical Skills: Electrical troubleshooting, equipment maintenance, safety protocols, and systems isolation.
Soft Skills: Problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and adaptability to challenging environments.
Tools Used: Electrical testing equipment, maintenance management systems, and safety gear.