IMarEST Fellow interview - John Butler
This article was initially published in the May/June 2019 issue of Marine Professional magazine.
IMarEST Fellow John Butler (who identifies new tech for the oil and gas sector) believes the next generation of marine engineers will develop their careers best if they concentrate on two things - enjoying learning and having fun.
What inspired you to become a marine engineer?
I grew up in a fishing village in Ireland. My father was a commercial diver and when I was a child he told me about sunken treasure, salvage diving on wrecks in exotic places, and many other stories - including one about buying a horse in a pub to ride back to port so he didn't miss his ship!
"Always look to push your personal boundaries"
What does your current role involve?
I now work in business acquisition, which looks at the future of engineering for my company. I investigate which technologies and inventions will be used in the future for offshore oil and gas projects.
What was the last IMarEST event you attended?
The IMarEST Fellows Dinner, hosted by David Loosley; chief executive of the IMarEST, where some great topics were discussed, including diversity and inclusion, the benefits of STEM, and how we must continue to promote STEM in schools. We also discussed the wider aspects of the IMarEST and how the Special Interest Groups are looking to drive change not only in marine engineering but also in science and technology. I would encourage all IMarEST Fellows to attend upcoming events in order to see how they can participate and influence the strategic plan going forwards.
CV: JOHN BUTLER
A Chartered mechanical engineer, John Butler is a Fellow of the IMarEST and vice-chair of the IMarEST Aberdeen Branch. He started his career in the Merchant Navy working aboard chemical tankers as a marine engineer, and in 2001 graduated from Robert Gordon University with an honours degree in engineering. He now works in Aberdeen as a business acquisitions manager for Wood's subsea and export systems, tasked with identifying future projects and business opportunities. He is also responsible for developing engineering procurement and fabrication. Outside work, he is an ambassador for the Energy Institute Young Professionals Network and supports local schools as an enterprise mentor.
"The oil and gas industry is changing at pace. It's imperative that the necessary changes be made to manage energy transition within business"
Why did you first join the IMarEST?
I joined the Institute as a marine engineering cadet when it was the IMarE. At the time, you were always encouraged to join it at the earliest opportunity. As my career developed from marine engineering into offshore oil and gas, it was a very simple decision to remain with the IMarEST based on the relevance to the offshore environment I now work in.
Do you still enjoy your maritime career?
I've always been very fortunate in my career. I still enjoy engineering as much as when I started. I got a tremendous amount of satisfaction when I got my first job in the Merchant Navy and today I still get that same enjoyment.
Best career advice you've ever received?
My colleague Paul Jukes once told me that if you are not Chartered, seek to get Chartered - and if you are Chartered, seek to become a Fellow. Because of that advice, and his support, I eventually became a Fellow of the IMarEST. So I'd say you should always look to see how you can push your own personal boundaries and achieve recognition in your profession.
Is the future bright for marine engineering?
Yes, I think the future looks very bright. The UK, for example, as an island nation, can benefit immensely from the marine resources on its doorstep. There are good opportunities to bridge academic qualifications with experience and learning. However, I feel the industry needs to promote this more to ensure we're supporting professional development no matter what your background or age.
"As traditional practices are changing, a new technological and innovative mindset is required to ensure project success. Oil and gas companies are becoming energy providers through more diverse portfolios - including renewable energy"
What are the main issues in offshore oil and gas right now?
The oil and gas industry is changing at pace. It's imperative that the necessary changes be made to manage energy transition within business. As traditional practices are changing, a new technological and innovative mindset is required to ensure project success. Oil and gas companies are becoming energy providers through more diverse portfolios - including renewable energy. This will ensure that these companies stay ahead of the curve, as well as making definitive steps towards decarbonisation.
Would you advise a young person to take up marine engineering?
Yes, I would. Taking a path in marine engineering will open up many opportunities for you. As a career, it is very exciting and rewarding. You'll travel the world and experience so much. But remember to enjoy learning. Learn about ships, bridges, welding, soldering, resistors, capacitors - anything that you enjoy finding out about. But always try to have fun while you're doing it. You certainly won't regret it.