YP March Madness Happy Hour
2025-03-20 16:00 - 19:00 (America/Denver)
The YP Section and AADE are partnering for a March Madness Happy Hour event at Rhein Haus on March 20th from 4-7pm! Join us for networking, drinks, appetizers, and the excitement that is the college basketball tournament.
Registration is free! We hope to see you there!

Technical Happy Hour- Completions
2025-03-27 16:00 - 19:00 | Liberty Energy, 950 17th St Suite #24, Denver, CO, 80202, United States
Host: Society of Petroleum Engineers, Denver Section
Event: March 2025 Technical Happy Hour
Time: March 27th, 4-6 (HH begins at 4, Talk at 430, Social until 6)
Location: Liberty Energy, 950 17th St, Suite 2400, Denver, CO 80202
Sponsor: Liberty
Study Group Category: Completion
Speaker: Robert Holman, Geophysicist, Ovintiv
Title: Fracture Growth Through Microseismic Quiescent Zones: Indication Of Stealth Or Complex Fracturing?
Abstract:
Often microseismicity levels tend to vary from one lithological unit to the next, with some layers being predominantly quiet and lack any microseismicity. Since shear activated deformation associated with microseismicity will depend on the geomechanical properties and natural fabric of the formation, the lack of microseisms in certain layers may or may not be indicative of a change in the hydraulic fracture geometry. In this work, microseismic observations are integrated with strain and other observations to investigate the microseismic response in relation to the underlying hydraulic fracture geometry for different rock types. The combined conclusions allow identification of two distinct types of response for aseismic layers. The first type are ‘stealth’ homogeneous layers that behave aseismically with the lack of natural fabric to host shear activated microseisms from consistent fracture growth. The second type are interbedded shaly layers where the lack of microseismicity is associated with fracture complexity that results in compartmentalized portions of the hydraulic fracture which may not effectively drain the reservoir. Examples are described of these types from integrated monitoring of hydraulic fracture growth in Uinta Basin, Utah and Midland Basin, Texas.
Bio:
Robert Holman has been a geophysicist at Ovintiv in Denver for two years. As a member of the reservoir characterization group, he enhances the company’s understanding of the Permian Basin. In his role, he integrates seismic data into operational processes and regional characterization, as well as diagnostic interpretation, to enhance understanding of subsurface features and optimize field performance. Before joining Ovintiv, he worked 10 years at Chesapeake Energy, now known as Expand. While working there he gained experience through his role as a geophysicist in their Eagle Ford asset and technology team, where he contributed to various projects aimed at improving operational efficiency and implementing technology. He earned his B.S at BYU-Idaho and M.S. at Oklahoma State University.

Register Here

SPE YP/ Social Octane Home Opener
2025-04-03 16:00 - 19:00
Date & Time: April 3rd, 2025 4pm – 7pm
Location: Wynkoop Brewing, 1634 18th Street, Denver CO 80202

Register Here

April SPE Board Meeting
2025-04-08 12:00 - 13:00
If you would like to join the monthly SPE Board meeting, please email denver.spe@gmail.com for meeting details!

Denver Rescue Mission- April 2025
2025-04-15 06:30 - 08:30 | Denver Rescue Mission, 2222 Lawrence St, Denver, CO, 80205, United States
Please help SPE Denver Section give back to the Denver Rescue Mission by serving breakfast at their Lawrence Street location.

Please arrive by 6:45 and plan to stay till 8:30

For more info Contact Nicolas Cosca at Nicolas.Cosca@hpinc.com

SPE Denver April General Meeting
2025-04-16 11:30 - 13:00 | Fogo de Chao, 1513 Wynkoop st, Denver, 80202, United States
Title:
Screenouts, Shutdowns, and Delays: Driving Operational Awareness in the Haynesville Through Smart Stage Categorization
Abstract:
Optimizing well performance while reducing costs remains a top priority for operators, yet traditional, siloed approaches to data analysis often hinder efficiency. This talk presents a structured, data-driven methodology for categorizing hydraulic fracturing stages to identify deviations from pumping designs that lead to increased costs, inefficiencies, and unpredictability. By automating the detection of operational issues and distinguishing between surface- and subsurface-driven problems, stage categorization enables faster troubleshooting, optimized resource allocation, and enhanced decision-making. Integrating time-series and wellbore design data uncovers links between operational challenges and geological variability, providing actionable insights for post-job analysis and real-time decisions. This approach lays the groundwork for predictive analytics and scalable, basin-wide applications—empowering operators to move from reactive issue management to proactive, data-driven optimization
Bio:
Jessica Iriarte – General Manager of Completions at Corva
Jessica Iriarte is the General Manager of Completions at Corva. With 13+ years of international experience in data science, research, and operations. She’s an inventor with four patents, former SPE distinguished lecturer, and has held several leadership roles in SPE. Jessica has a BS and MS degree in Petroleum Engineering.
Jessica is committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive work environment. She’s relentlessly curious and constantly finding different ways to connect with nature, usually by hiking, camping, and gardening.

Register Here

CSM Spring Golf Tournament
2025-04-24 08:30 - 16:00 | The Ridge at Castle Pines North, 1414 Castle Pines Pkwy, Castle Pines, Colorado, 80108
The Mines SPE golf tournament is approaching and we would love to see you there. ⛳️
Register Here
Get a team together or sponsor a student!
📍Where: The Ridge at Castle Pines North
⏱️ When: April 24th, 2025

Technical Happy Hour - April 2025
2025-04-29 16:00 - 18:00 | Liberty Energy, 950 17th St Suite #24, Denver, CO, 80202, United States
Host: Society of Petroleum Engineers, Denver SectionEvent: April 2025 Technical Happy HourTime: April 29th, 4-6 (HH begins at 4, Talk at 430, Social until 6)Location: Liberty Energy, 950 17th St, Suite 2400, Denver, CO 80202Sponsor: LibertyStudy Group Category: Completion/Diagnostics/GeophysicsSpeaker: Joseph Mjehovich, Geophysicist, IFData LLCTitle: Bedding Plane Slippage and Fault Reactivation Captured by Cross-well LFDAS Monitoring During Hydraulic Fracturing

Abstract:This study provides the first direct observations of horizontal bedding plane slippage detected using cross-well low-frequency distributed acoustic sensing (LFDAS) during hydraulic fracturing stimulation in the Sichuan Basin, China. Traditional completion designs assume vertical tensile fracture propagation; however, under certain stress and geological conditions, fractures may grow horizontally, reducing stimulation efficiency and posing risks such as induced seismicity and wellbore deformation issues. Distributed strain signals captured in a horizontal observation well displayed elliptical contours spanning multiple stages (300–700 m), characteristic of horizontal fracture growth. Additionally, fault reactivation triggered by the horizontal fracture propagation is identified through a paired dipole-stripe signature in the strain signal. To validate these interpretations, a displacement discontinuity method based geomechanical model was applied, history-matching the LFDAS strain signals observed during selected treatment stages. The model confirmed that a shear deformation componentis required for horizontal fractures to match field signals, implying bedding plane slippage.It also verified hydraulic connectivity between several natural faults and the horizontal

fracture plane during injection, leading to fault reactivation.These findings demonstrate the value of cross-well strain monitoring combined with advanced modeling techniques in understanding fracture behavior in complex geological settings. Recognizing the role of geological factors, such as weak bedding planes and natural faults, is essential for accurately predicting fracture growth, optimizing stimulation strategies, and minimizing risks in unconventional reservoir development.

Speaker Bio:Joseph Mjehovich is a Geophysicist at IFDATA, specializing in the research and development of distributed fiber-optic sensing for reservoir characterization and well designdiagnostics. His work focuses on advancing the analysis and interpretation of cross-well fiber-optic measurements and integrating the company’s research and workflows into real-world field projects. Joseph holds a Master of Science in Geophysics from the Colorado School of Mines, where he contributed as a research associate in the Reservoir Characterization Project (RCP) Consortium. His research included quantitative analysis of fiber-optic sensing data to better understand the driving mechanisms of hydraulic fracture development. Additionally, Joseph explored the application of distributed acoustic sensing for near-surface seismic surveys to aid earthquake hazard site classification.

Register Here

May Technical Happy Hour
2025-05-08 16:00 - 18:00 | Liberty Energy, 950 17th St Suite #24, Denver, CO, 80202, United States
Host: Society of Petroleum Engineers, Denver SectionEvent: May 2025 Technical Happy HourTime: May 8th, 4-6 (HH begins at 4, Talk at 430, Social until 6)Location: Liberty Energy, 950 17th St, Suite 2400, Denver, CO 80202Sponsor: LibertyStudy Group Category: ReservoirSpeaker: Garrett Fowler, COO, ResFracTitle: What I Think I’ve Learned About Unconventionals: Perspective of a Reservoir EngineerAbstract:In the last five plus years, the quality and quantity of subsurface diagnostics has driven a rapid increase in the industry’s understanding of hydraulic fracture geometry, proppant placement, and pressure depletion. Subsurface insights can largely be summarized into three themes: fractures are large planar features at the macro scale, and complex at the micro scale; fractures predominantly produce from unaltered rock permeability; and proppant and fluid take the path of least resistance (sometimes not where we want them to go!).Armed with deeper understanding of hydraulic fracturing processes, completions teams are empowered to deviate from “manufacturing mode” development and instead employ prescriptive designs for specific geologic, geomechanical, and depletion environments.This talk integrates the latest learnings of hydraulic fracture characterization from case studies to present a cohesive summary of what fractures look like, where the proppant is placed, how fluids are produced through fractures, and why this knowledge informs better frac designs and better wells.If a particular topic is of interest to the section, emphasis may be given to one or more of:parent/child and depletion effects, refracturing, conductivity loss (proppant embedment, crushing), geomechanical property characterization, fracturing in geothermal, geomechanical considerations and fracturing for CO2 sequestration, or diagnostic technologies for unconventionals.Bio:Garrett Fowler is Chief Operating Officer at ResFrac, responsible for overseeing business strategy, client engagement, professional services, and software licensing for shale, geothermal, and CCS projects across the world. Prior to ResFrac, Garrett focused on EOR and waterflooding as a reservoir engineer at Oxy and Tachyus. Garrett holds bachelors and masters degrees in engineering from Stanford University, was awarded a 2022 SPE Regional Completions Optimization and
Technology Award, is currently a 2023-2024 SPE Distinguished Lecturer, and

authored or co-authored 24 technical papers. In his free time, Garrett competes in triathlons and mountain bike races, and volunteers as a search and rescue diver.

Register Here

Industry Advisory Committee Meeting
2025-05-13 11:30 - 12:00 | Denver Earth Resources Library, 730 17th Street Suite B1, Denver, CO, 80202, United States
The next SPE Denver Section Industry Advisory Committee meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 13th from 11:30-12:00pm at the Denver Earth Resources Library. This committee serves to help provide feedback to the board from member companies and individuals to allow the board to better serve the Denver membership. All are welcome.

May SPE Board Meeting
2025-05-14 12:00 - 13:00

YP Summer Happy Hour
2025-05-15 16:00 - 19:00
Come join us for our last YP Happy Hour for the 2024-2025 SPE Session!
May 15th from 4-7pm at Denver Beer CO
1695 Platte St, Denver, CO 80202

Register Here

Rocky Mountain Oilfield Pickleball Tournament
2025-05-16 15:00 - 19:00 | 3rd Shot Pickleball, 3545 Wadsworth Blvd, Wheat Ridge, CO, CO, 80033, United States
Join us for the second Rocky Mountain Oilfield Pickleball Tournament on Friday, May 16th! Come enjoy drinks and help us crown the best picklers in the oilfield at 3rd Shot Pickleball from 3pm-7pm.The tournament will begin with pool play, the best 2 teams in each 4 team pool will move on to the winners bracket to battle it out for the crown. The bottom 2 teams will fight for 3rd place, but don’t let up, the top 3 teams will win prizes! Teams are doubles, and themes are encouraged! Paddles and Pickleballs will be provided to players who register if you do not have your own.

3rd Shot Pickleball
3545 Wadsworth Blvd, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

Ticket options:

Team Ticket – $100
Single – $50 (will be added to a team on arrival)

Sponsorship options: Each Sponsor will have a team registered as well.

Presenting sponsor (1) – $3,000

Includes name & logo on large, printed brackets. Also includes a court named after the sponsor, the courts will be referred to by the sponsor through the entirety of the tournament to help players find their matches.

Court Sponsor (3) – $1,500

Each court sponsor will have a court named after them. The courts will be referred to by the sponsor through the entirety of the tournament to help players find their matches.

Drinks sponsor (1) – $1,000

Sponsor of drinks (bar on-site) for the event. Each player receives two

Food sponsor (1) – $1,000

Sponsor of food (pizza and snacks available)

Ball sponsor (logo on custom pickleballs, must be ordered by April 30th) – $1,000

Register Here

Denver Rescue Mission- May 2025
2025-05-20 06:30 - 08:30 | Denver Rescue Mission, 2222 Lawrence St, Denver, CO, 80205, United States

SPE Denver May General Meeting
2025-05-21 11:30 - 13:00 | Fogo de Chao, 1513 Wynkoop st, Denver, 80202, United States
Title: DJ Basin Play Fundamentals
Enverus’ DJ Basin Play Fundamentals highlights key trends and changes across the DJ Basin over the past year. This talk will showcase operator-level inventory at breakeven price, emphasizing both quality and quantity of remaining locations and the impact of surface restrictions. Case studies using DSU-level analysis will compare two distinct development strategies observed across the play: maximizing NPV with tight spacing versus prioritizing IRR with wider spaced wells. Additionally, this talk will explore region-specific recoveries, economic considerations, and the impact of subsurface drivers on future development.
Bio
Morgan joined Enverus Intelligence Research in February 2022 and specializes as a geological analyst in the Williston, DJ, Uinta and Powder River Basins. She earned both her Bachelor and Master of Science in geology from the University of Calgary in 2016 and 2022, respectively. Prior to Enverus, Morgan held various internships at E&P’s including Chevron, Repsol and Cenovus. She is based in Calgary, Alberta.

Register Here

2025 Denver SPE Golf Tournament Scholarship Fundraiser
2025-08-08 07:30 - 13:00 | The Ridge at Castle Pines North, 1414 Castle Pines Pkwy, Castle Pines, Colorado, 80108
Time is running out to join us for a great day of golf in support of the SPE Scholarship Fund, which benefits petroleum engineering students in the Rocky Mountain Region. Last year, we raised $35,000 — let’s go even bigger this year!
Morning rounds are SOLD OUT, and we have only 6 foursome spots left for the afternoon. Don’t wait — these will go fast!
$1,000 per foursome includes green fee, cart rental, and meals based on tee time.
Secure your team here: Register Here
Let’s tee off for a great cause — see you on the green this Friday!

SPE 2025 Summer Social and Awards Banquet
2025-08-27 17:30 - 20:30 | Tamayo, 1400 Larimer St, Denver, CO, 80202, United States
Ladies and gentlemen, get ready to crank up the excitement because the SPE Summer Social & Awards Ceremony is about to light up Denver! This is no ordinary night—it’s a high-octane fusion of the sizzling Summer Social and the dazzling Awards Banquet, where we’ll be rolling out the red carpet for the Denver Oil & Gas community’s brightest stars! We’re also giving a huge shout-out to our legendary 25-year members for their unwavering dedication.
But wait, there’s more! We’ll also unveil the 2025-2026 board, throwback to the wins of ’24-’25, and drop some bold new goals for the year ahead. Get ready to mingle, celebrate, and fuel the excitement—this is the event you DON’T want to miss!
But hold up, the party’s just getting started! Bring your crew because the company with the highest attendance will score some jaw-dropping prizes! And here’s the deal: bring a friend and unlock sweet multi-registration discounts. The more, the merrier!
Register Here

Denver Rescue Mission - September 2025
2025-09-16 06:45 - 20:30 | Denver Rescue Mission, 2222 Lawrence St, Denver, CO, 80205, United States
Good morning SPE volunteering team!

Our next monthly breakfast at the Rescue Mission will be September 16th from 6:45am to 8:30am. This is a great way to meet new people within the industry, help the Denver community, and jump-start your Tuesday morning!
Please try to RSVP if you are planning on attending.
If you have any questions or want some more details, please reach out to me by email or at 303-257-6091. For general info from the Rescue Mission, please see below.
Main important number to have if you are parking in the gated lot is 303-297-5071. They will open the gate when you call.

A few instructions about volunteering:
Address: 2222 Lawrence Street, Denver CO 80205

Parking:
Preferred: We have a private gated parking lot for volunteers and staff. It is on the right side of Lawrence street, with a black metal fence and large sign marked, “Emergency Rally Point”. If there are open parking spots and the gate is closed for security, you may pull up to the gate, call 303-297-5071 and press 1 to have staff open the gate remotely. This lot has been expanded recently, so there are typically a number of open parking spots.Second option: There is a public pay lot across Lawrence Street where we have rented some spots for staff and volunteers to park for FREE, on a first come first served basis, with signs that are marked, “Denver Rescue Mission Staff Only”. If you park in the lot and don’t get a free spot, then please pay the posted price. We are unable to reimburse volunteers for parking.Third option: There is also street parking in the neighborhood (metered, 2-hour, etc.) and other public pay lots. We are unable to reimburse volunteers for parking or parking tickets.

Facility Entry:
Preferred: Walk through our gated lot, toward the back of the building, to the white sign marked “Volunteer Entrance”, and ring the bell for entry.Second option: Walk to the main entrance on Lawrence Street. Front desk staff will escort you through to the Volunteer Room.Check-in: Upon arrival to the Volunteer Room, please be sure to sign in at the kiosk tablet. If you are with a group, only one member needs to sign-in for the group. This is essential for us to highlight volunteer contribution and impact. After signing in, you will watch our safety video to bring you up to speed on everything you need to know for your volunteer shift.Dress Code: Please dress in a manner that is modest and appropriate for meal service and kitchen work. Please refrain from wearing opened toe shoes, tank-tops, midriff tops, short shorts, and any clothing that is: tight, low-cut, or has controversial imprints. If you are dressed inappropriately, you will be asked to reschedule. Do not wear dangly or loose jewelry, especially earrings or bracelets. Tip: If you wear a hat (and a pony tail for long hair), you will not be required to wear a hairnet.Minimum Age: This opportunity has a minimum age of 14 years old for safety reasons. Anyone under 18 needs an adult chaperone. Please do not bring family members or guests who are under 14.Incidents: Please report immediately to a staff member any injuries, inappropriate behavior, or anything that makes you uncomfortable. Please be aware that many of our guests and program participants come from difficult life situations.Please know that we appreciate your time and energy. Thank you for serving our community members who are experiencing homelessness.

SPE Denver Section: Jack England Memorial Pass
2025-09-17 01:00 - 07:00 | Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery, 1001 16th Street, Unit Ste A-100, Denver, Colorado, 80265, United States
Pre-register for the 2025 Fall General Meeting slate! After purchasing this pass, you will receive a code to use for the September, October, November and December registrations.

Register Here

SPE Denver General Meeting: September 2025
2025-09-17 11:30 - 13:00 | Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery, 1001 16th Street, Unit Ste A-100, Denver, Colorado, 80265, United States
Abstract:
Pressure drawdown management is one of the most critical, yet until recently underappreciated and not fully characterized, levers of shale production performance. While rapid drawdown can deliver short-term gains, in certain reservoirs it risks compromising long-term recovery, the integrity of the fracture system, and liquid yield.
This lecture explores pressure drawdown management in shale reservoirs across all fluid types. In addition, particular focus will be placed on condensates as the most complex and least forgiving fluid system, where production efficiency can be highly sensitive to drawdown strategy. Insights from Permian, Eagle Ford, Vaca Muerta, and Duvernay case studies highlight that producing condensate gas ratio (CGR) consistently tracks flowing bottomhole pressure and that aggressive drawdowns accelerate condensate loss even above the saturation point.
Field trials and reservoir simulations highlight that, under the right reservoir conditions, controlled drawdowns can preserve fracture conductivity, stabilize liquid yield, and improve condensate recovery by up to 50 percent in the first three years, while also reducing facility requirements and improving overall development efficiency.
The discussion provides a framework to evaluate drawdown strategies through the lenses of reservoir physics, economic outcomes, and operational performance, establishing a foundation for optimized shale developments and stronger reservoir stewardship.
Speaker’s Bio:
Yalda Barzin is a Reservoir Engineering Advisor at ExxonMobil, where she focuses on strategic development and technical quality assurance within the unconventional assets’ portfolio.
With over 20 years of experience in both conventional and unconventional reservoirs, she has worked with leading energy companies across North and South America and Europe. She is an industry-recognized authority in the field of Rate Transient Analysis (RTA) and well performance evaluation. Her technical leadership in translating complex subsurface problems into practical production strategies, particularly in complex fluid systems, has shaped the best practices that continue to influence production from major unconventional plays.
She has authored more than 20 technical papers, including two SPE award-winning publications. Her work spans shale development, RTA, phase behavior, conventional and unconventional EOR, naturally fractured reservoirs, gas condensate systems, and drawdown management. Alongside her publications, she is a multilingual educator who has taught technical workshops and training courses worldwide.
Yalda holds a PhD in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Calgary and an MSc from IFP School in France. Outside the energy industry, Yalda is also an accomplished pianist and composer.

Register Here

SPE Denver General Meeting: October 2025
2025-10-15 11:30 - 13:00 | Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery, 1001 16th Street, Unit Ste A-100, Denver, Colorado, 80265, United States
Abstract:

As the Oil and Gas industry continues its digital growth and transformation, the ability to harness data effectively is becoming a defining factor in operational efficiency and strategic decision-making. This presentation explores how cloud-based technologies can modernize data warehousing, streamline data transformation, and enhance application integration. Leveraging Databricks for scalable data processing, Dagster for robust orchestration, and dbt for reliable data transformations, we demonstrate an integrated ecosystem that delivers both agility and governance. Attendees will gain insights into best practices for migrating from an on premises to cloud-native data platform, strategies for overcoming challenges such as siloed systems and legacy workflows, and practical examples of how these tools can unlock new value from subsurface, production, and operational data. By embracing these technologies, organizations can enable faster analytics and drive better business outcomes across the oil and gas industry.

Mindy Spellman:

With over 14 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, Mindy serves as the Director of Data and Analytics at Permian Resources, where she leads enterprise-wide data strategy, advanced analytics, and digital innovation efforts. Mindy began her career in reservoir engineering at Forest Oil before moving into a corporate analytics role.
Driven by a passion for data and analytics, Mindy went on to found Blue River Analytics, a firm specializing in data visualization and business intelligence solutions for the energy sector. As founder and CTO, she worked with numerous E&P companies to modernize their data workflows, transforming how teams interact with and leverage operational and subsurface data.
For the past seven years, Mindy has played a key leadership role at Centennial Resource Development, now Permian Resources, where she has helped shape the company’s digital transformation. Her work focuses on unifying data platforms, enhancing operational visibility, and deploying advanced analytics to drive efficiency across the company.

Matthew Mauch:

Matthew Mauch has seven years of experience in the oil and gas industry, working across technical, analytical, and data-focused roles. He began his career as a Reservoir Engineering Technician, supporting subsurface teams with data management and analysis. He later transitioned into a Business Analyst role, where he focused on bridging the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders by delivering data-driven insights. Currently, Matthew is a Data Engineer, specializing in cloud-based platforms and modern data technologies to build scalable, reliable, and efficient data pipelines at Permian Resources. He has helped lead the development and deployment of data pipelines during their migration from on premises SQL Server to Azure Databricks.

Register Here

SPE Denver Technical Happy Hour - October 2025
2025-10-16 16:00 - 18:00 | Liberty Energy, 950 17th St Suite #24, Denver, CO, 80202, United States
Host: Society of Petroleum Engineers, Denver SectionEvent: October 2025 Technical Happy HourTime: October 16th, 4-6 (HH begins at 4, Talk at 430, Social until 6)Location: Liberty Energy, 950 17th St, Suite 2400, Denver, CO 80202Sponsor: LibertyStudy Group Category: CompletionsSpeaker: Jessica Iriarte, General Completions Manager, Corva
Title: Enhancing Operational Awareness in Haynesville Operations with Advanced Stage-Categorization Models

Abstract:

This study presents an AI-driven approach to stage categorization for hydraulic
fracturing operations, addressing deviations from pumping designs that result in
increased costs, reduced efficiency, and operational unpredictability. The dataset
includes 1,595 stages, of which 970 exhibited at least one issue such as mid-stage
shutdowns, screen outs, and rate reductions. The objective is to improve
operational decision-making by automating stage categorization, distinguishing
between surface and subsurface issues, and lay the foundation for future
predictive machine learning models to anticipate trouble stages.

The stage categorization model evolved through eight iterations to refine detection
of operational issues and differentiate between surface- and subsurface-driven
problems. Version 1 implemented basic pressure slope algorithms, while Version 2
improved accuracy with steady-rate pressure checks. Version 3 expanded
diagnostic capabilities by incorporating proppant and chemical concentrations.
Version 4 adjusted the search for specific activities like pad for ball-seat stages,
flush, and pressure test. Version 5 introduced dynamic thresholds to account for
friction effects from varying casing sizes and stage measured depths. Version 6
optimized the overall model, removing factors that reduced Precision, resulting in
significantly improved performance. Version 7 improved Clean Sweep remediation
detection using stage activities, such as flushes, to determine the most accurate
period to scan. Screen outs were updated based on a sensitivity analysis around
the required pressure per minute reading. Finally, in Version 8 logic was added to
connect subsequent subsurface-related issues to one that occurred earlier in the
stage’s progression.

The finalized stage categorization model analyzes time-series data, including
pressure, rate, proppant and chemical concentration, and wellbore design
parameters, capturing key variables affecting treatment behavior. It achieved 98%
accuracy and 88% precision in identifying issues like mid-stage shutdowns and
screen outs. By distinguishing surface from subsurface problems, operators can
optimize resource allocation and treatment designs. The study also revealed
significant correlations between operational challenges and geological variability,
highlighting the importance of integrating rock and operational data. These
insights facilitate improved treatment consistency, reduced costs, and enhanced
decision-making.

Bio:

Jessica Iriarte is the General Manager of Completions at Corva. Jessica is a data
science and energy leader, has held various leadership positions in oil and gas,
including international experience in data, research, and operations. Jessica is an
inventor, a distinguished lecturer, and has 17 publications with SPE, JPT, and URTeC.
Jessica holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering from
Universidad del Zulia and a Master of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering from
Colorado School of Mines.

Register Here

Denver Rescue Mission - October 2025
2025-10-21 06:45 - 08:30 | Denver Rescue Mission, 2222 Lawrence St, Denver, CO, 80205, United States
Good morning SPE volunteering team!

Our next monthly breakfast at the Rescue Mission will be October 21st, from 6:45am to 8:30am. This is a great way to meet new people within the industry, help the Denver community, and jump-start your Tuesday morning!
Please try to RSVP if you are planning on attending.
If you have any questions or want some more details, please reach out to me by email or at 303-257-6091. For general info from the Rescue Mission, please see below.Main important number to have if you are parking in the gated lot is 303-297-5071. They will open the gate when you call.
A few instructions about volunteering:
Address: 2222 Lawrence Street, Denver CO 80205

Parking:

Preferred: We have a private gated parking lot for volunteers and staff. It is on the right side of Lawrence street, with a black metal fence and large sign marked, “Emergency Rally Point”. If there are open parking spots and the gate is closed for security, you may pull up to the gate, call 303-297-5071 and press 1 to have staff open the gate remotely. This lot has been expanded recently, so there are typically a number of open parking spots.Second option: There is a public pay lot across Lawrence Street where we have rented some spots for staff and volunteers to park for FREE, on a first come first served basis, with signs that are marked, “Denver Rescue Mission Staff Only”. If you park in the lot and don’t get a free spot, then please pay the posted price. We are unable to reimburse volunteers for parking.Third option: There is also street parking in the neighborhood (metered, 2-hour, etc.) and other public pay lots. We are unable to reimburse volunteers for parking or parking tickets.

Facility Entry:

Preferred: Walk through our gated lot, toward the back of the building, to the white sign marked “Volunteer Entrance”, and ring the bell for entry.Second option: Walk to the main entrance on Lawrence Street. Front desk staff will escort you through to the Volunteer Room.Check-in: Upon arrival to the Volunteer Room, please be sure to sign in at the kiosk tablet. If you are with a group, only one member needs to sign-in for the group. This is essential for us to highlight volunteer contribution and impact. After signing in, you will watch our safety video to bring you up to speed on everything you need to know for your volunteer shift.Dress Code: Please dress in a manner that is modest and appropriate for meal service and kitchen work. Please refrain from wearing opened toe shoes, tank-tops, midriff tops, short shorts, and any clothing that is: tight, low-cut, or has controversial imprints. If you are dressed inappropriately, you will be asked to reschedule. Do not wear dangly or loose jewelry, especially earrings or bracelets. Tip: If you wear a hat (and a pony tail for long hair), you will not be required to wear a hairnet.Minimum Age: This opportunity has a minimum age of 14 years old for safety reasons. Anyone under 18 needs an adult chaperone. Please do not bring family members or guests who are under 14.Incidents: Please report immediately to a staff member any injuries, inappropriate behavior, or anything that makes you uncomfortable. Please be aware that many of our guests and program participants come from difficult life situations.Please know that we appreciate your time and energy. Thank you for serving our community members who are experiencing homelessness.

SPE Young Professionals Halloween Happy Hour
2025-10-30 17:30 - 19:30 | Flight Club, 1606 Wewatta St, Denver, CO, United States
Join us for a spooktacular evening of networking, games, and Halloween fun at Flight Club! Hosted by the Society of Petroleum Engineers Young Professionals and proudly sponsored by SLB, this happy hour is the perfect chance to connect with fellow YPs in the energy industry while enjoying delicious bites, drinks, and some friendly competition at the dart boards.

🎯 What to Expect:

Complimentary drinks and appetizers
Social darts and interactive games
Costume contest with prizes
Great company and industry connections

Costumes are encouraged but not required—come as you are or come as your favorite spooky character!
Register Here

SPE Denver Technical Happy Hour: Completions
2025-11-10 16:00 - 18:00 | Liberty Energy, 950 17th St Suite #24, Denver, CO, 80202, United States
Speaker: Madison Hollaway, Low Emissions And Sustainability Lead, Liberty Energy
Title: Evaluating the Transition to Natural Gas-Powered Equipment in Hydraulic Fracturing: Challenges, Benefits, and Feasibility Analysis.

Abstract:

The transition to natural gas as a primary fuel source in hydraulic fracturing
operations launched in 2013 with the introduction of dual fuel engines,
which use a blend of diesel and natural gas. This transition remains
ongoing, marked by two fundamentally different approaches to displacing
diesel with natural gas. Initially, dual fuel engines emerged as the
pioneering technology for substituting diesel with natural gas on hydraulic
fracturing jobs. These engines are still being used and improved upon
today. Subsequently, circa 2018, companies began developing and
deploying 100% natural gas-powered generation systems to drive
electrically powered hydraulic fracturing equipment.
Historically, gas powered generation has been found exclusively in
stationary applications. Adapting this technology to a mobile package for
hydraulic fracturing operations has been a formidable industry-wide
challenge. Unlike stationary setups, mobile deployment necessitates
considerations of weight, ambient outdoor conditions, and the reliability of
the natural gas supply. Prior to equipment construction, weight
optimization is imperative, as off-road mobile units are subject to state-
specific road weight restrictions. Compliance with axle, king pin, and total
weight limits is mandatory for roadworthiness. Moreover, the lack of control
over outdoor ambient conditions further complicates mobile deployment.
Unlike ambient conditions, natural gas supply is within control of the
operator, though it cannot be preemptively resolved like weight
considerations. Post-deployment, natural gas quality and supply often
emerge as predominant challenges, highlighting their significance in mobile
gas-powered generation for hydraulic fracturing operations.

The balance of transitioning to natural gas fueled engines, while the natural
gas infrastructure catches up, has been both delicate and complex. Diesel
has been used as a fuel source for over 70 years in the industry and thus
has firmly established a robust supply chain. In contrast, the Compressed
Natural Gas (CNG) supply chain is in the early stages of development and
has consistently served as a bottleneck for deploying natural gas
technologies. However, there is a prevailing belief that the inherent benefits
of natural gas will act as a catalyst for the evolution of the CNG supply
chain in the years to come.
Considering the ongoing challenges, it is imperative to evaluate the true
benefits of this transition. Assessing whether the opportunity cost
outweighs the hurdles encountered, both presently and in the foreseeable
future, is crucial. This paper aims to address this critical question by
leveraging empirical data collected during the initial stages of our
organization’s natural gas transition. Through a comprehensive analysis, we
examine the tangible advantages and potential drawbacks of embracing
natural gas technology, providing insights into the feasibility and
implications of this transition for the hydraulic fracturing industry. In this
analysis we will focus on Tier IV Dual Fuel engines, Gas Reciprocating
Generators which produce electricity to drive electric frac pumps, and Gas
Reciprocating Engines that mechanically drive the hydraulic pump. The
baseline for comparison is established using Tier II Diesel engines. Each
technology will be evaluated based on multiple criteria including emissions,
cost savings found in both fuel purchases and operating costs, and overall
operational considerations. Through a combination of Original Engine
Manufacturer (OEM) data and empirical data, this paper provides valuable
insights into the efficacy and feasibility of transitioning to natural gas-
burning equipment in the context of hydraulic fracturing operations.

Bio:

Madison Hollaway is the Low Emissions And Sustainability Lead at Liberty
Energy. Madison has held a variety of positions throughout her career in the
oil and gas industry, with experience spanning from engineering and project
management to research and development. Madison holds a Bachelor of
Engineering in Petroleum Engineering from Texas A&M University.

Register Here

Rocky Mountain Oilfield Pickleball Showdown
2025-11-14 15:00 - 19:00 | 3rd Shot Pickleball, 3545 Wadsworth Blvd, Wheat Ridge, CO, CO, 80033, United States
Event description

Get ready to swing, slam, and pickle like never before at the Rocky Mountain Oilfield Pickleball Tournament, hitting the courts Friday, Nov 14th! 🏓
We’re at a 20 team limit, so grab your spot and join the ultimate showdown at 3rd Shot Pickleball from 3pm-7pm. Sip on tasty drinks, unleash your inner pickleball Rockstar, and compete to crown the oilfield’s fiercest picklers! Kick things off with electrifying pool play—top 2 teams from each 4-team pool storm the winners’ bracket to battle for glory, while the bottom 2 duke it out for a shot at 3rd place. 🏆
Prizes await the top 3 teams (2 in winners bracket & winner of the losers bracket), so bring your A-game or your play for fun! Doubles teams, show off your vibe with epic themes—costumes encouraged! No gear? No problem! We’ve got paddles and pickleballs for all registered players. Let’s make this tournament a total SMASH! 🎉
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Denver Rescue Mission - November 2025
2025-11-18 06:45 - 08:30 | Denver Rescue Mission, 2222 Lawrence St, Denver, CO, 80205, United States
Good morning SPE volunteering team!

Our next monthly breakfast at the Rescue Mission will be November 18th, from 6:45am to 8:30am. This is a great way to meet new people within the industry, help the Denver community, and jump-start your Tuesday morning!
Please try to RSVP if you are planning on attending.
If you have any questions or want some more details, please reach out to me by email or at 303-257-6091. For general info from the Rescue Mission, please see below.Main important number to have if you are parking in the gated lot is 303-297-5071. They will open the gate when you call.
A few instructions about volunteering:
Address: 2222 Lawrence Street, Denver CO 80205

Parking:

Preferred: We have a private gated parking lot for volunteers and staff. It is on the right side of Lawrence street, with a black metal fence and large sign marked, “Emergency Rally Point”. If there are open parking spots and the gate is closed for security, you may pull up to the gate, call 303-297-5071 and press 1 to have staff open the gate remotely. This lot has been expanded recently, so there are typically a number of open parking spots.Second option: There is a public pay lot across Lawrence Street where we have rented some spots for staff and volunteers to park for FREE, on a first come first served basis, with signs that are marked, “Denver Rescue Mission Staff Only”. If you park in the lot and don’t get a free spot, then please pay the posted price. We are unable to reimburse volunteers for parking.Third option: There is also street parking in the neighborhood (metered, 2-hour, etc.) and other public pay lots. We are unable to reimburse volunteers for parking or parking tickets.

Facility Entry:

Preferred: Walk through our gated lot, toward the back of the building, to the white sign marked “Volunteer Entrance”, and ring the bell for entry.Second option: Walk to the main entrance on Lawrence Street. Front desk staff will escort you through to the Volunteer Room.Check-in: Upon arrival to the Volunteer Room, please be sure to sign in at the kiosk tablet. If you are with a group, only one member needs to sign-in for the group. This is essential for us to highlight volunteer contribution and impact. After signing in, you will watch our safety video to bring you up to speed on everything you need to know for your volunteer shift.Dress Code: Please dress in a manner that is modest and appropriate for meal service and kitchen work. Please refrain from wearing opened toe shoes, tank-tops, midriff tops, short shorts, and any clothing that is: tight, low-cut, or has controversial imprints. If you are dressed inappropriately, you will be asked to reschedule. Do not wear dangly or loose jewelry, especially earrings or bracelets. Tip: If you wear a hat (and a pony tail for long hair), you will not be required to wear a hairnet.Minimum Age: This opportunity has a minimum age of 14 years old for safety reasons. Anyone under 18 needs an adult chaperone. Please do not bring family members or guests who are under 14.Incidents: Please report immediately to a staff member any injuries, inappropriate behavior, or anything that makes you uncomfortable. Please be aware that many of our guests and program participants come from difficult life situations.Please know that we appreciate your time and energy. Thank you for serving our community members who are experiencing homelessness.

SPE Denver General Meeting: November 2025
2025-11-19 11:30 - 13:00 | Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery, 1001 16th Street, Unit Ste A-100, Denver, Colorado, 80265, United States
General Meeting Category: Reservoir
Speaker: Reidar Bratvold, Professor Emeritus, University of Stavanger
Title: Persistent Bias in Probabilistic Production Forecasting and Simple Methods to Overcome It

Abstract:

The one key idea I would like the members to take away: Unbiased probabilistic production forecasts are a crucial component in making good investment decisions — but typical ways of producing them result in persistent, value-destroying biases. There are quick and easy ways to make accurate, unbiased forecasts.
Increased awareness of uncertainty, combined with increasingly sophisticated tools and models for quantifying it, is causing a shift from deterministic to probabilistic production forecasting. For these forecasts to lead to better investment decisions (e.g. assessing how much it’s worth paying to reduce uncertainty, or incorporating flexibility to manage it), they need to be an accurate (unbiased) representation of the uncertainty. However, our industry has a general history of overconfidence (ranges too narrow) and, more damaging for value-creation, optimism (consistent over-estimation).
A large dataset of historical probabilistic production forecasts was investigated for potential bias by comparing them with actual outcomes. They were found to be both optimistic and overconfident, bringing into question their usefulness for decision-making and the value of the sophisticated uncertainty modeling techniques that were used to generate them.
Fortunately, there are quick and easy methods for creating accurate probabilistic forecasts. We describe these and show that they would have produced accurate forecasts for our case study fields (they do not make use of knowing the actual outcomes!).
Finally, preliminary results from a similar analysis of renewables projects indicate that the same problems exist. This could significantly impact investment decisions and policy development in renewable projects by governments and companies.

Bio:

Reidar B. Bratvold is Professor (emeritus) of Decision & Data Analytics at the University of Stavanger, where he teaches and supervises graduate students in decision and data analytics, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, project valuation, portfolio analysis, real-option valuation, and the behavioral challenges of decision-making. Before joining academia, Reidar spent 15 years in industry in various technical and leadership roles, including Vice President at Landmark Graphics Corporation (a Halliburton company) in Houston; Managing Director of Smedvig Technology Software Solutions (now Roxar); Senior Scientist with IBM; and Reservoir Engineer with Statoil. He began his career offshore as a roughneck and roustabout in the North Sea.
Reidar is a frequent speaker at industry conferences and delivers in-house short courses on decision-making and economic evaluation. He is one of only four individuals to have served as a Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Distinguished Lecturer four times:
• Uncertainty Assessment and Risk Management in Reservoir Optimization (1998–1999)
• Would You Know a Good Decision if You Saw One? (2003–2004)
• Creating Value from Uncertainty and Flexibility (2016–2017)
• Persistent Bias in Probabilistic Production Forecasting and Simple Methods to Overcome It
He has published extensively on topics such as decision-making, the value of information, the application of machine learning and AI to support decisions, Bayesian evidence learning, stochastic reservoir modeling, fuzzy logic, data assimilation, and reservoir management. He is co-author of the SPE book Making Good Decisions, commissioned by the SPE.
Reidar was the 2017 recipient of the SPE Management & Information Award, has served as Executive Editor for SPE Economics & Management, and in 2024 was selected as Energy Professional of the Year by the SPE Stavanger Chapter. He is a Fellow of both the Society of Decision Professionals and the Norwegian Academy of Technological Sciences, and a Founding Member of the Friends of SDP initiative.
He holds a PhD in engineering and an MSc in mathematics from Stanford University and has completed executive education in business and management science at INSEAD, MIT, and Stanford

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SPE Denver Technical Happy Hour: December 2025
2025-12-08 16:00 - 18:00 | Liberty Energy, 950 17th St Suite #24, Denver, CO, 80202, United States
Abstract:

A key challenge faced in unconventional reservoir development is well
densities coupled with modern completion designs to economically optimize
resource development. Most data analytic applications use single well
production and completion data to explore optimized strategies. However,
the combination of different well densities and completion strategies
complicate single well analytics and thus could be improved upon by using
multi-well, normalized section-based data analytics. This approach can help
identify what changes can be made to the combination of wells per section
and completion metrics to optimize asset recovery or help confirm that
current strategies are working.
In most basins, the State Public Land Survey System (PLSS) sections are
the main grid used to define each section. In the Permian, the Texas Block
and Survey sections are used, whereas in the Eagle Ford, a custom grid
with 1-mile by 1-mile sections are used. Total lateral length within the
section, pumped proppant and fluid, and production volumes are rolled up
within each grid section and normalized by section area on a per-acre basis.
Examples in the paper mainly use three-year cumulative oil production and
simple three-year payout economics as performance metric. Processed
section level data is then visualized in both map views and cartesian plots,
to draw insights on section-level performance in specific areas and then
determine the best strategies to optimize asset recovery.
The key application of this approach is to draw insights relating to differing
development strategies in each area. Trends of fluid treatment job sizes as a
function of wells per section (WPS) can be inferred. Together, with trends of
section production as well as normalized well productivity on a per-foot
basis as a function of WPS, it is possible to assess which development
strategy might work best. The trends of section production versus WPS and
completion metrics are generally much better than for single-well analytics.
The examples show how optimum performance and development strategy
may change for different unconventional basins.
Section-based data analytics has proven to be an excellent complement to
well-based data analytics and physical models as it provides better data
correlations for the whole “development system” compared to single-well
analytics. This approach is largely automated and can be used in any basin
to gain insight into the section-level performance of a given well
development and completion strategy.

Bio:
Howard Melcher is a Subsurface Technical Advisor at Liberty Energy, where
he has been a member of Liberty’s technical team for 12 years, focusing on
data analytics, formation evaluation, and frac & reservoir modeling. Before
joining Liberty, he spent 6 years with U.S. Energy, a privately held E&P,
working primarily in the Appalachian Basin. He holds a Bachelor of Science in
Geology from the University at Buffalo and has completed graduate
coursework at Texas A&M.

Register Here

Denver Rescue Mission - December 2025
2025-12-16 06:45 - 08:30 | Denver Rescue Mission, 2222 Lawrence St, Denver, CO, 80205, United States
Good morning SPE volunteering team!

Our next monthly breakfast at the Rescue Mission will be December 16th, from 6:45am to 8:30am. This is a great way to meet new people within the industry, help the Denver community, and jump-start your Tuesday morning!
Please try to RSVP if you are planning on attending.
If you have any questions or want some more details, please reach out to me by email or at 303-257-6091. For general info from the Rescue Mission, please see below.Main important number to have if you are parking in the gated lot is 303-297-5071. They will open the gate when you call.
A few instructions about volunteering:
Address: 2222 Lawrence Street, Denver CO 80205

Parking:

Preferred: We have a private gated parking lot for volunteers and staff. It is on the right side of Lawrence street, with a black metal fence and large sign marked, “Emergency Rally Point”. If there are open parking spots and the gate is closed for security, you may pull up to the gate, call 303-297-5071 and press 1 to have staff open the gate remotely. This lot has been expanded recently, so there are typically a number of open parking spots.Second option: There is a public pay lot across Lawrence Street where we have rented some spots for staff and volunteers to park for FREE, on a first come first served basis, with signs that are marked, “Denver Rescue Mission Staff Only”. If you park in the lot and don’t get a free spot, then please pay the posted price. We are unable to reimburse volunteers for parking.Third option: There is also street parking in the neighborhood (metered, 2-hour, etc.) and other public pay lots. We are unable to reimburse volunteers for parking or parking tickets.

Facility Entry:

Preferred: Walk through our gated lot, toward the back of the building, to the white sign marked “Volunteer Entrance”, and ring the bell for entry.Second option: Walk to the main entrance on Lawrence Street. Front desk staff will escort you through to the Volunteer Room.Check-in: Upon arrival to the Volunteer Room, please be sure to sign in at the kiosk tablet. If you are with a group, only one member needs to sign-in for the group. This is essential for us to highlight volunteer contribution and impact. After signing in, you will watch our safety video to bring you up to speed on everything you need to know for your volunteer shift.Dress Code: Please dress in a manner that is modest and appropriate for meal service and kitchen work. Please refrain from wearing opened toe shoes, tank-tops, midriff tops, short shorts, and any clothing that is: tight, low-cut, or has controversial imprints. If you are dressed inappropriately, you will be asked to reschedule. Do not wear dangly or loose jewelry, especially earrings or bracelets. Tip: If you wear a hat (and a pony tail for long hair), you will not be required to wear a hairnet.Minimum Age: This opportunity has a minimum age of 14 years old for safety reasons. Anyone under 18 needs an adult chaperone. Please do not bring family members or guests who are under 14.Incidents: Please report immediately to a staff member any injuries, inappropriate behavior, or anything that makes you uncomfortable. Please be aware that many of our guests and program participants come from difficult life situations.Please know that we appreciate your time and energy. Thank you for serving our community members who are experiencing homelessness.
