Panel 2: Beyond the Hype: Overcoming Implementation Barriers and Reskilling the Workforce
SESSION OVERVIEW
While the potential for AI/ML is immense, moving from theory to reality remains a significant challenge. This panel addresses the common friction points in adoption—from failed pilot projects and data distrust to organizational resistance. We will focus on practical strategies to navigate these barriers and, crucially, how to "retool" our human capital. The discussion will center on fostering a workforce where AI/ML augments—rather than replaces—deep domain expertise, turning implementation challenges into sustainable, competitive advantages.
KEY DISCUSSION THEMES
- Anatomy of failure: Why subsurface AI projects stall and how to avoid common pitfalls.
- The Augmented Geoscientist: Practical strategies for upskilling staff to work alongside AI tools.
- Building trust: Overcoming internal resistance to algorithmic outputs and fostering a data-driven culture.
- Process integration: Balancing automated workflows with necessary human oversight.
- Bridging the gap: Aligning tool selection with current organizational skillsets and limitations.
Panel Speaker

Ina Czarina Arief Tham
Head TriCipta AI,
Upstream Business
PETRONAS
Panel Speaker

Ali Tabatabaei
Chief AI Officer
AFED Digital
Panel Speaker
Dr. Eirik Larsen
Senior GeoscientistEarth Science Analytics (ESA)
Panel Speaker
Mathieu Terrisse
Manager Data, Digital & Innovation
TotalEnergies
Panel Speaker

Pakorn Tangtuengtin
Subsurface Digital Solution Researcher and Geophysicist
PTTEP
Moderator

Dr. Pierre Eliet
Executive Director Corporate Development & Country Chair Malaysia
Seascape Energy Asia