The Energy Pipeline

Recorded live in Houston, Josh Lowrey sits down with Tyler Rice, Pressure Control Sales Manager at Caterpillar SPM, to break down how frac operations are evolving. They cover the shift from labor-heavy sites to linear pressure systems that cut connections by 80%+, improve safety, and reduce rig-up time from days to hours. Tyler also dives into post-2020 efficiency gains, continuous pumping, cost improvements, and what’s slowing adoption in some regions. 01:17 Colorado Talk and Mountain Adventures02:49 Moving to Midland During the Downturn05:26 Breaking Into Oil and Gas in 200607:23 From Field Hand to Commercial Role08:22 Surviving 2020 and the Tech Shift10:47 Caterpillar Innovation and Long View12:37 Linear Pressure Control Explained17:18 Safety Efficiency and Better Jobs19:38 Customer Value Pitch20:22 Simul Frac Scaling Up21:22 Field Experience Matters22:40 Automation Before AI24:13 Perpetual Pumping Plan26:51 Permian Economics Proof27:51 Regional Adoption Curve29:15 Global Tech Rollout31:33 Safety And Clean Ops34:34 Remote Controlled Future38:58 Wrap Up And Where To Find   

What’s really behind Nabors’ comeback? It’s not just better rigs. Live from the Thrive Energy Conference 2026 at Daikin Park, Josh Lowrey talks with Brett Schellenberg of Nabors Industries about how automation is changing the game. Faster iteration beats perfect techKnowing when to cut losses mattersOpen platforms unlock real scale (with partners like Halliburton and Schlumberger) Meanwhile, growth is shifting, away from North America and toward markets like Saudi Arabia and Argentina. 00:00 Live From Thrive00:17 Meet Brett Schellenberg01:15 40 Under 40 Talk02:52 From Roughneck To Sales04:12 Rig Tech Then Now05:44 Fail Fast Learn Faster08:01 Killing Your Baby09:03 Nabors Legacy And Acquisitions11:28 Reinvention And Innovation Bets15:59 Brand Power Story17:00 Caterpillar And Product Thinking18:50 Tech And AI Tease19:26 Rig Automation Highlights19:57 Razor Pipe Handling Lessons21:24 Open Rig App Ecosystem21:49 Vertical Integration Edge22:57 North America Rig Outlook24:47 Tier Two Acreage Debate26:37 International Footprint Growth29:26 Argentina Tech Adoption31:49 Travel And North Africa32:24 Phone Safety Callout34:16 Career Advice And Mentors37:34 Wrap Up And Shoutouts 

Power demand is exploding, but the grid is not ready. Live from the Daniel Energy Partners Thrive Energy Conference, host Josh Lowrey sits down with Dave Bosco to unpack why “light-switch” reliability is now mission-critical. They dive into island power, microgrids, and how ProPower is building utility-grade solutions for oil & gas and hyperscale data centers in a constrained grid, plus the tech behind it, their partnership with Caterpillar, and what most people are still getting wrong. 00:00 Live From Thrive Conference01:17 Pro Power Origin Story01:42 Why The Grid Cannot Keep Up02:40 Light Switch Reliability Story04:37 Demand Surge Data Centers06:13 Career Built From Ground Up06:48 From IT To Oilfield Rotations09:24 Lessons On Growth And Discomfort11:57 Electrification Versus ESG13:41 Caterpillar Partnership Playbook16:42 Service Network And Asset Care19:04 Scaling Fast And Hybrid Tech20:54 BESS For AI Load Swings22:05 Skunkworks Training Lab22:38 Consultative Power Partnerships23:41 Hyperscaler Contract Talk23:59 Energy Conference Shift25:29 Reliability And Market Maturity28:21 Island Power Explained32:20 Why The Grid Lags35:55 Microgrids And Scaling Up37:44 Company Vision And Value41:06 Team Culture And Wrap Up

How do you transform electric frac from a bold idea into one of the largest pressure pumping platforms in the U.S.? Live from the Daniel Energy Partners Thrive Energy Conference, host Josh Lowry sits down with Steven Anderson, President & CEO of Evolution Well Services, to discuss the company’s next chapter. From its founding in Canada in 2011 to becoming the fifth-largest pressure pumper in the U.S., Evolution has reengineered hypermobile power, cutting 35 MW mobilization timelines from weeks to hours while scaling toward 1.6 million hydraulic horsepower. They also explore electrification, AI-driven automation, market skepticism, and why culture remains Evolution’s ultimate competitive advantage. 00:00 Podcast Intro Live Event00:52 Thrive Conference Growth01:37 Steven Anderson Background03:13 Evolution Electric Frac Origins04:53 Hypermobility Breakthrough08:01 Skepticism And Partnerships10:38 Industry Shift And Adoption12:26 Digital Automation Advantage14:36 Going Public And Scaling16:15 Partnerships That Expand16:52 AI Teaser Next17:13 AI and Automation Platform19:29 New Tech and Power Expansion21:32 Solutions Business Mindset23:10 PRISM Culture and Empowerment24:46 Future of Electrification25:55 International Growth Timing28:25 People First Culture Advantage31:34 Advice and Closing Thanks

The Energy Pipeline Podcast enters a new chapter as Josh Lowrey hosts the first on-camera episode powered by Upright Digital. To kick off this new era during Valentine’s Week 2026, Josh is joined by Andy Publes, the newly promoted Director of Account Management for Drilling and Completion at Caterpillar. From his roots in Cuba to a 17-year tenure at Caterpillar spanning locomotives and electric power, Andy shares a unique perspective on leadership and the "customer-first" culture that defined Caterpillar’s resilience during the 2020 global shifts. Tune in now! 00:00 Welcome: A New Era with Host Josh Lowrey00:50 Meet Andy Publes & First On-Camera Episode03:47 Andy’s Journey: From Cuba to Caterpillar05:51 Caterpillar’s Culture & the Pace of Oil & Gas08:54 Navigating 2020: Leadership Through Crisis13:48 2026 Vision: Dual Fuel & Automated Safety16:39 Powering AI & Data Centers: Right-Sizing Solutions20:46 DGB Gen 2: Retrofitting Engines for Field Gas27:07 The Impact of Diesel Displacement28:33 Field Results: Cutting $CO_2e$ by 45%29:34 How DGB Works: Efficiency & Methane Reduction30:42 Seeing Innovation in Action: Demos & Tours32:50 Manufacturing Excellence: The "Mothership" Culture36:55 Digital Ecosystems & Predictive Reliability39:15 SPM & Caterpillar: Power-to-Wellhead Automation42:48 Global Demand: Why Reliable Power Matters48:04 Wrap-Up: Caterpillar’s Strategy for the Next 100 Years

In this episode of the Energy Pipeline Podcast, host Russell Stewart sits down with Timothy Soucy, Senior Account Manager at Caterpillar Oil & Gas, to explore how power generation on drilling rigs is evolving. With nearly two decades of industry experience, Timothy breaks down how Caterpillar is helping operators reduce GHG emissions, improve efficiency, and stay capital disciplined through practical solutions like diesel and dual-fuel systems, LNG, energy storage, microgrid controllers, and the emerging role of hydrogen. Tune in now!00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message00:28 Welcome to the Energy Pipeline Podcast01:01 Guest Introduction: Timothy Susie from Caterpillar01:19 Timothy's Background and Role at Caterpillar01:48 Power Generation in the Oil and Gas Industry03:14 Transitioning from Diesel to Natural Gas05:01 Technological Innovations: DGB and LNG06:44 Strategic Advantages and ROI09:24 Grid Tie and Energy Storage Systems14:47 Hydrogen and Future Technologies16:15 Purchase and Rental Options18:08 Caterpillar's Corporate and Dealer Coordination20:43 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of the Energy Pipeline podcast, host Russell Stewart interviews Ashish Gupta, VP of Engineering at Nabors Drilling. They discuss the company’s innovative drilling technology, particularly the new Pace-X Ultra rig, and its partnership with Caterpillar for dual fuel technology. Gupta shares insights on the efficiency improvements in drilling operations, the environmental benefits of using natural gas, and the future of drilling technology both onshore and offshore. The conversation highlights the importance of technological advancements in the oil and gas industry and the potential for continued improvement in efficiency and sustainability. Contact Ashish Gupta via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashishgs Company Website: www.nabors.com The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

In this conversation, Jill Minassian, Senior Business Development Manager for SPM Pressure Control Solutions, discusses the evolution of pressure control technology in the oil and gas industry. She highlights the transition from traditional flow iron setups to large bore iron, emphasizing the benefits of efficiency, safety, and cost savings. Jill also addresses the global adoption of linear pressure control and the future of automation in pressure control technology, showcasing SPM’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Contact Jill Minassian via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jill-minassian-a2818539 Company Website: SPM Oil & Gas | SPM Oil & Gas The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

In this conversation, Tyler Flanagan, Director of Sales and Operations at Arix Technologies, discusses the critical issue of corrosion under insulation (CUI) programs in the oil and gas industry and how robotic inspection systems are revolutionizing the way these problems are managed. He explains the importance of CUI programs, the role of robotics in enhancing inspection efficiency, and the significant cost and time savings achieved through their technology. Tyler also emphasizes the safety benefits of using robots in hazardous environments and the importance of data collection for better decision-making and environmental impact reduction. The discussion concludes with insights into the origins of Arix Technologies and its growth in the industry. Contact Tyler Flanagan via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tyler-j-flanagan Company Website: www.arix-tech.com/  The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

Russell continues his interview from last week with Steve Plemons and Keaton Mayers of Warren Cat discussing the opening of the new West Texas Engine Rebuild Center.  They explore what setes the ERC apart from a technical standpoint, how it is desighned to improve efficiency and service, and what it means for technician development and job growth in the region.  Episode Links Company Website: Heavy Equipment Sales & Service – OK & TX – Warren CAT  Contact Steve Plemons via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/steven-plemons-82338554 Contact Keaton Mayers via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/keaton-mayers-400725b6 The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

Russell welcomes to the show Steve Plemons and Keaton Mayers with Warren Cat to introduce the new state-of-the-art Engine Rebuild Center located in Midland/Odessa, TX that is designed to meet the growing power generation operations in the region.  Listen and learn about how this facility will support and service these evolving needs well into the future.  Episode Links Company Website: Heavy Equipment Sales & Service – OK & TX – Warren CAT  Contact Steve Plemons via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/steven-plemons-82338554 Contact Keaton Mayers via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/keaton-mayers-400725b6 The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Russell welcomes to the show Kelvin Teo, Managing Director of PKR Offshore in Taiwan to discuss expansion into the Asia-Pacific offshore wind industry in collaboration with Caterpillar Marine.   Listen to learn about integrating advanced wind farm support with proven oil and gas capabilities to provide a robust vessel solution that maximizes operational uptime and sustainability with a competitive edge. Episode Links Contact Kelvin Teo via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kelvinteorenewables Company Website: www.Pkroffshore.com Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

In this conversation, Matt Niemeyer and Renee LeBlas with NexTier discuss innovative power solutions in fracking using emerging technologies from dual fuel systems to 100% natural gas.  They highlight the significance of automated frac controls that enhance operational efficiency and the development of auto blend technologies that optimize the use of stranded field gas, increasing sustainability with better economies of scale. Episode Links Contact Matt Niemeyer via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthew-niemeyer-46b7452b Contact Renee LeBlas via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/renee-lebas Company Website: www.NexTierOFS.com The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

In this conversation, experts from NOV Digital, Gary Hickin and Stephen Peters discuss the critical role of data in the evolution of the oil and gas industry, emphasizing the importance of quality information and the implications of the ‘garage in, garbage out’ principle. Episode Links Contact Gary Hickin via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gary-hickin-a1818450 Contact Stephen Peters via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stephencpeters Company Website: https://www.nov.com/about/our-business-units/nov-digital-services The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

This conversation explores the advancements in engine management technology within the oil and gas industry, highlighting its significant impact on fuel consumption and emissions reduction, especially in the Middle East. Caterpillar’s Mike Weidenfeller and Nagy Salem discuss how smart engine management systems can lead to substantial efficiency gains, including reduced engine run-in time and improved diesel displacement, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable industry. Episode LinksContact Michael Weidenfeller via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michael-weidenfeller-660bba103Company Website: Caterpillar Oil & Gas Solutions | Cat | Caterpillar The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

In this interview, Russell Stewart interviews  , the Director of Sales and Marketing at Billy Pugh Company. They discuss Matt’s inspiring journey from a roustabout in the oil field to his current role.  The conversation highlights the importance of safety in the industry and specifically delves into the innovative safety solutions provided by Billy Pugh Company, including personnel transfer devices and custom safety products developed in response to industry needs. Matt also shares insights on the company’s historical contributions, including their role in the NASA Apollo missions, and emphasizes the importance of investing in the next generation of industry leaders through scholarships and mentorship made available by the local IADC Houston Chapter and other Houston oil & gas orginizations. Episode Links Contact Matt Austin via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthew-austin-2b27b61a3 Company Website: www.billypugh.com The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

In this episode, Russell Stewart interviews Kemp Gregory, co-founder and CEO of Renewell Energy, discussing innovative solutions for repurposing idle oil and gas wells into energy storage systems. The conversation explores the environmental challenges posed by abandoned wells, the economic benefits of converting these wells into gravity wells, and the regulatory landscape that supports this initiative. Kemp shares insights on the mechanics of their energy storage technology and the potential impact on the electrical grid, particularly in the context of increasing demand from data centers. The episode highlights the importance of infrastructure in the energy sector and the role of the oil and gas industry in addressing environmental issues. Episode Links Contact Kemp Gregory via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kemp-gregory Company Website: www.renewellenergy.com The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

In this conversation, Russell Stewart interviews Jenny Shafer, the global account manager for Caterpillar’s remanufacturing division, discussing the importance of remanufactured parts in the oil and gas industry. They explore how these parts contribute to sustainability, cost savings, and quality assurance, while also addressing the circular economy and supply chain resilience. Jenny shares insights on the remanufacturing process and the growing trend of using remanufactured components globally. Episode Links Contact Jenny Shafer via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jennifer-shafer-592a76204 Website: www.parts.cat.com The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

Russell welcomes to the show Will Kernan, Caterpillar Oil & Gas Strategy Manager for Power Generation. This is a comprehensive discussion on why power generation is becoming a more critical topic in upstream and midstream oil and gas operations, including Caterpillar’s role in reliability requirements for grid alternatives compared to the utility grid, alternative fuel sources and the impact on engine performance and capability, and more. Episode LinksContact Will Kernan via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/will-kernan-7a638969Company Website: www.cat.com The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events

In this episode, Russell Stewart interviews Brad Keating, president of Electric Drilling Technologies, discussing the evolution and impact of electric drilling in the oil and gas industry. They explore the origins of the company, the environmental and economic benefits of electric drilling, and the role of microgrids in modern drilling operations. The conversation highlights the importance of sustainability and innovation in the energy sector, as well as the future integration of microgrids with public utility systems. Episode Links Contact Brad Keating via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brad-keating-539b8b52 Company Website: electricdrilling.net  The Energy Pipeline is sponsored by Caterpillar Oil and Gas. Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry. Sign up for OGGN newsletters here.Visit the OGGN Merch store here.Curious about podcast advertising? Learn more here. More from OGGN …PodcastsLinkedIn GroupLinkedIn Company PageGet notified about industry events