The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) across various industries has sparked debates about its potential to replace human roles, and the drilling sector is no exception. While some believe AI could take over the responsibilities of drilling operators, others argue that the human touch remains irreplaceable. In this article, let's explore both perspectives and highlight how AI can serve as a valuable tool for drilling operators but never quite replace the human ingenuity that makes our industry so unique and vital. 

The Argument for AI in Drilling

Proponents of AI in the drilling industry point to its ability to process vast amounts of data quickly and accurately. AI-driven systems can monitor drilling operations in real-time, predicting equipment failures before they occur, optimizing drilling paths, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. This can increase efficiency, reduce downtime, and lower operational costs. 

Robert Meyer, vice president of drilling operations for Texas-based Talon/LPE, explains, "AI rigs will provide drillers with better insight into what is happening at every stage of drilling. This includes things occurring in the borehole, with the rig, the solids handling equipment, the tool string, and even personnel health monitoring to improve performance. AI may be able to allow a single driller to monitor multiple rigs. However, I don’t believe it will be able to replace the driller."

This is where the debate really rests. While AI can be used as a tool to help assist drillers, replacing drillers entirely could serve to be a big mistake by any companies looking to test it out. Why? Because drillers have experience that simply can't be learned by a machine or AI system. Therefore, while AI assistance can reduce costs and help even train new drillers, the replacement of drillers is highly unlikely. 

The Case Against Full Replacement

Despite the advantages, even industry experts believe that AI cannot fully replace human drilling operators. The unpredictability of drilling conditions and the necessity for real-time problem-solving are areas where human intuition and experience are invaluable.

Jake Fletcher, a senior leader in the U.S. Air Force’s RED HORSE well drilling training program, compares the situation to the debate over human pilots in combat aircraft. "Until we create robots that are AI-powered that can repair the machinery and make other physical adjustments, human beings must be present. Ask yourself, what if something breaks on the rig? Is it going to repair itself? Even if the rig is being operated with perfect precision from AI and it is able to sense and navigate adverse conditions, the actual machinery itself will require on-site maintenance and monitoring."

Considering Fletcher's take on the subject, it's clear to see that drillers may be able to take a load off their backs with AI but their guidance, intuition, and maintenance will always be essential. 

When asked the same question, 'Will AI replace the drilling operator? ' Brock Yordy, The Driller's industry editor, emphasizes the necessity of human oversight. "A master driller will always be in supervision to step in when too many variables occur at once that AI can’t process. Drilling is a disruptive process that requires microsecond adjustments by the most advanced processing system on earth—the human brain." Yordy went on to explain how this same concept was referenced in the movie "Sully" with Tom Hanks. In the film, an AI was used to go over the same flight path repeatedly and Hanks aka Sully explains how a million simulations can be done but it took human intuition to land the plane safely and the simulations cannot repeat that. 

See the full scene here: 

The Middle Ground: AI as a Tool

While AI may not fully replace drilling operators, it can certainly enhance their capabilities. By handling routine tasks and providing detailed insights, AI allows human operators to focus on more complex and critical aspects of drilling operations.

Mimi Egg, Social Media Manager at Egg Geo, acknowledges the potential of AI but remains cautious about its current limitations. "Much like the AI for self-driving cars, it’s very difficult to make code that accounts for the decisions that humans can make on the spot regarding the unexpected. Perhaps we will get to the point where AI is entirely capable of this sort of thing, but I don’t believe it’ll be terribly soon."

The Human Touch in Drilling

All in all, in industries like water well, geothermal, geotechnical, and environmental drilling, the human touch is essential. The combination of human intuition, experience, and adaptability ensures that operations can continue smoothly even when faced with unexpected challenges. AI can serve as a powerful tool to support and enhance the work of drilling operators, but it cannot replace the unique capabilities that humans bring to the table.

As Brock Yordy succinctly puts it, "AI will be programmed to stop in those cases to seek the best solution. But it’s the human driller who will step in and make the necessary adjustments to keep operations on track."

In conclusion, while AI has the potential to revolutionize aspects of the drilling industry, it is unlikely to replace human operators entirely. Instead, AI should be viewed as a complementary tool that, when used effectively, can enhance the efficiency and safety of drilling operations, allowing humans and machines to work together cohesively.