Fadil, a Saudi engineering graduate from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, was chosen for Saudi Aramco Total Refining and Petrochemical (SATORP) Company's program leading up to a Master’s degree in engineering at the world renowned Institut Français du Pétrole Energies Nouvelles (IFPEN). He was accepted in 2009 before going on to complete additional training at Total's Normandy Refinery.
The Chance of Studying at IFPEN
At IFP Energies Nouvelles, Fadil spent seven months of intensive studies focused on Refining and Petrochemicals which led to his Master's degree. “Having the chance to go there was like a dream. Most of the professors there come from the oil and gas field, so their first-hand experience was really rich and helpful” remembers Fadil.
A Helpful Experience at Total's Refinery
After IFPEN, Fadil trained with the team in charge of the Hydro Cracker in Total's Normandy Refinery for a further seven months. "It was a really big challenge for me" said Fadil. Learning French quickly, he made good relationships with the Normandy team, "there was a lot to see and I learned a lot from them about how to work and behave in the Hydro Cracker unit. This training was the perfect foundation to bring back with me and build on when I joined SATORP".
Being Part of SATORP's Challenge
"When two such renowned companies as Saudi Aramco and Total joined to build a giant refinery, it offered both a big chance and a major challenge - especially being in at the start" explained Fadil. "I knew I would learn a lot at SATORP and have a chance to really contribute to something huge. In 2009 there was nothing at Jubail but sand - then, day by day, we saw it take shape”. Talking about his future plans Fadil said that "there's still much to learn at SATORP and I'm grateful for the opportunity”.
