WEST began operations in 1984 as WEST Ltd. in Aberdeen, Scotland. WEST founder Michael Montgomery graduated college with a degree in Civil (Structural) Engineering and then worked for two of the industry’s largest drilling contractors as one of the industry’s first subsea engineers. While doing this work, Michael recognized the impact that proper maintenance and testing of DTE (Drill Through Equipment) and related systems can have on drilling costs. The decision was made in September of 1984 to start a company focused on DTE and training. At that time, none of the equipment manufacturers offered any type of training for BOP (Blow Out Preventer) equipment in Europe. The first seminar was presented in January of 1985. Shortly after, clients began calling for help with their drill through equipment. Michael quickly realized that this consulting work would keep the company’s training current and up-to-date. The result was WEST Ltd., the first company in the world to provide third-party DTE training, inspection and testing services.

After founding WEST in Aberdeen, Michael recognized the concentration of both international oil companies and DTE equipment manufacturers in the proximity of Houston, Texas, so he moved the young company there in 1988. Incorporated in Texas as WEST-Hou, Inc., the company experienced slow but steady growth while substantiating the value and cost effectiveness of drilling equipment assessments/surveys. During this time, the company emerged as an industry leader in DTE while learning ever more from the many failures being observed. Michael's contributions to the drilling industry and his technical excellence are demonstrated by his participation as a voting member of API Section 16 committees; including Specification 16A Drill Through Equipment, which defines standards for new BOP equipment.

Significant staff additions over the years have greatly expanded both the technical quality and breadth of services offered by WEST. In December 2001, the corporate name was changed to WEST Engineering Services, primarily to reflect an increasing volume of engineering consulting work.

Today the company consists of over 130 individuals stationed strategically throughout the world to address client needs. WEST now features a number of field surveyors with extensive experience in a wide range of drilling equipment. At the same time, a group of engineers with solid expertise in drilling equipment design and use complements the experience of those in the field. Current staff includes three licensed Professional Engineers (P.E.s) and a number of others with engineering, technical and advanced degrees. Together, these two groups are managed by experienced project staff who ensure that client deadlines and cost requirements are addressed.

In addition to surveys, training and engineering consulting, WEST can aid your drilling program with on-site technicians who can assist you with equipment maintenance, and with in-house equipment repair services. If you have a tight schedule, timely help with equipment repairs can be valuable. Call us at 281-375-5515, email us at west@westengineer.com or click here for more details on our full complement of services.

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