Production engineer, petroleum engineer intern

Alex Youngmun

Education: University of Arizona, Geomechanics Engineering, anticipated graduation May 2011

Growing up in Anchorage, Alaska, Alex Youngmun had a strong desire to have an impact on the future utilization of Alaska’s natural resources. So when it came time for him to pick an industry and career to pursue, involving himself in Alaska’s booming oil and gas industry was a natural next step. Fortunately, the neighboring BP plant was a great option for starting his career with an internship.

What was your project for the duration of your internship?
My project focused on working and evaluating state-of-the-art equipment used for monitoring sand and other solids that came out of an oil producing well.  I was able to work with internal BP technical groups and contractors, and was able to educate other PE’s on the rig-up, operations, and process surrounding the utilization of the equipment.

What’s something about BP that others may not know?
That BP is one of the largest oil and gas companies in the world with operations all over the globe.  Also, that we’re more than oil: we offer wind, solar and natural gas solutions.  We’re also a green company, and I think that makes us stand out from other oil companies.

Why do you think BP was ranked as a top employer?
Because of its people, reputation for excellence, and it’s a fun and exciting place to work. At BP they do a lot of team-oriented things during the business day, but also after hours: we had opportunities take part in group fishing trips, softball games, and community volunteering days. There are a lot of people not from Alaska, so these activities were a good way to get out and experience our surroundings.