Aluno: Carlyn Groshans
Resumo
The U.S. oil and gas industry faces mounting pressure to modernize amid rapid technological advances, rising sustainability expectations, and shifting workforce needs. This dissertation examines how companies integrate digital technologies, including Industry 4.0, while pursuing sustainability goals, and addressing the socioeconomic impacts of automation and AI, with a focus on the Gulf Central region.
Using grounded theory methodology, the study draws on expert interviews from industry professions and analysis of policy and regulations, corporate, and industry documents to uncover lived experiences, institutional narratives, and emergent strategies shaping this transformation. Findings show that digital transformation improves operational efficiency and reduces emissions but demands substantial workforce upskilling to mitigate displacement and close skills gaps. Community engagement and public-private partnerships emerge as key for workforce resilience and social legitimacy.
The analysis identifies “Strategic Tech-Driven Realignment” as the core process through which firms balance innovation, sustainability, and socioeconomic adaptation — emphasizing continuous negotiation rather than linear change. ESG frameworks play a central role as both compliance tools and catalysts for cultural and institutional transformation.
The study concludes that successful transformation requires balancing technological innovation, sustainability targets, workforce development, and regulatory demands. Regionally focused policy support and integrated technology-human capital strategies are critical for sustainable progress, offering practical insights for industry leaders and policymakers navigating legacy sector challenges.
Keywords: Oil and Gas, Digital Transformation, Sustainability, Workforce Transformation, Grounded Theory, Strategic Tech-Driven Realignment, ESG, Policy, Socioeconomic Impact, Industry 4.0, United States
Trabalho final de Mestrado