Noble Corporation is taking a significant step forward in its commitment to operational safety and performance by partnering with Kongsberg Digital to implement cutting-edge simulator technology for dynamic positioning (DP) training. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for the offshore drilling giant, showcasing its dedication to enhancing crew preparedness and operational excellence through advanced training solutions.
The contract with Kongsberg Digital will see the development of navigation, engine, and dynamic positioning simulators based on the K-Pos DP system. These simulators are not just off-the-shelf solutions; they will be tailored specifically to integrate with Noble’s riser monitoring system (RMS) and electronic well-specific operating guidelines (eWSOG). This level of customization underscores Noble’s proactive approach to training, ensuring that its workforce is equipped to handle the unique challenges of offshore drilling operations.
Brian Herbert, Marine Training Simulation Supervisor at Noble, encapsulated the company’s ethos by stating, “Since Noble’s foundation in 1921, our unwavering commitment to safety, performance, and innovation has defined who we are. We put our people above all else.” This investment in Kongsberg’s simulators is more than just a training upgrade; it’s a testament to Noble’s dedication to its offshore workforce. The immersive training environment created by these simulators is set to enhance the skills and preparedness of crews, reinforcing Noble’s ambition to be the First Choice for Employees, Customers, and Investors.
The significance of this initiative cannot be overstated. Noble will be the first company globally to implement such an advanced DP drilling training solution for in-house Nautical Institute-accredited training. This move is expected to bolster operational competencies, enhance safety awareness, and promote effective team collaboration—elements that are vital in the high-stakes world of offshore drilling. The need for seamless teamwork among engineers, dynamic positioning operators, and drillers is critical, especially when navigating the complexities of modern drilling operations.
Moreover, these simulators will facilitate root-cause incident analysis and aid in integrating legacy crews from recent mergers, fostering a cohesive and well-trained workforce. Are Føllesdal Tjønn, Managing Director of Kongsberg Digital’s Maritime Simulation Division, emphasized the transformative nature of the K-Sim simulators, stating, “Our K-Sim simulators are transforming offshore training by offering professionals with an exceptionally realistic training environment that prepares them for high-pressure scenarios without any risk to personnel, equipment, or environment.”
This investment comes at a crucial time for Noble, particularly following its merger with Diamond Offshore, which has resulted in a substantial backlog of $6.2 billion as of Q3 2024. However, the company has acknowledged the challenges ahead, including a projected softer utilization environment through 2025. Despite these hurdles, Patrick Ewbank, Head of Learning and Development at Noble, remains optimistic. He pointed out that Noble has been a pioneer in integrated team exercises for offshore drilling crews since 2013, recognizing that technical skills alone are not enough in dynamic offshore environments.
The collaboration with Kongsberg Digital not only positions Noble at the forefront of training innovation but also sets a new standard in the offshore drilling sector. As the industry grapples with challenges, Noble’s focus on crew competence and safety could very well reshape the landscape, influencing other companies to follow suit in investing in advanced training solutions. This strategic move highlights a growing recognition that enhancing crew skills and fostering teamwork are essential for navigating the complexities of offshore drilling, ensuring both safety and operational efficiency in an ever-evolving industry.
