The theme this year is “Conventional Challenges with Unconventional Solutions” reflecting the confluence of conventional and unconventional exploration and development projects within our industry.  While unconventional plays have not yet had the impact in the western region, the opportunity is on the horizon.  Our Technical Program Committee has organized a program to cover conventional and unconventional plays across a broad spectrum of disciplines, including all of SPE’s six technical topics.  The conference will kick off with a day of short course offerings, and a workshop on well integrity. The conference will also include events for Young Professionals, and Seasoned Professionals, two evening networking receptions held in the exhibit area, two luncheons and panel discussions with distinguished keynote speakers.

On par with the valuable professional and networking opportunities afforded by this event, the prospect of linking this conference to a family vacation in adventurous Anchorage, Alaska in late May is truly too good to pass up.  The Alaskan experience can include a cruise along the Inside Passage, a fishing trip on the Kenai River, a train ride up to Denali National Park, or a bear viewing trip to Katmai National Park.  The options are limitless in Alaska, and this “bucket list” opportunity is not to be missed!

Not only can you take advantage of the Memorial Day weekend trip with the family, but the SPE International Board of Directors has chosen Anchorage, Alaska for the 2016 Board Meeting, which will occur the week after the Western Regional Meeting. This juxtaposition of events will afford opportunities to network with distinguished board members and executives from around the globe.

At this conference, you will have up to four days of transfer of knowledge, professional and social networking opportunities, and competency development.  The fact this year is again challenging due to low oil price further magnifies SPE’s value for knowledge transfer, networking, and competency development.  We look forward to a rewarding and fun experience with all of you in Anchorage!

We are honored to be hosting the venerable SPE Western Regional Meeting in Anchorage in 2016, and we would like to thank the SPE Alaska Section Leadership and all of the dedicated volunteers from across the Western Region who have contributed greatly to organize this meeting.  It is only through the their hard work and coordination meetings like this can occur. And seeing what our participants walk away with is the key driver behind all this activity.  We look forward to seeing you in Anchorage!