Ranger Drilling & Geoscientists of the Future

September 21, 2016

In August 2016, Ranger Drilling, led by Managing Director Matt Izett, began a unique initiative. The launch was held at the Irish Club in Subiaco, as part of a monthly Australian Institute of Geologists (AIG) Conference.

In Izett’s opening speech, he mentions the initiative as having several focuses: keeping budding geologists in the industry, working with exploration crews on drilling rigs, as opposed to being Perth “Uber” drivers, thus investing in and supporting the geoscience community in its capacity as a leading drilling contractor. Ranger Drilling are proud to confirm initial success stories based around this initiative.

Jack Earnshaw and Dan Baumann, both qualified Geologists, have commenced in Offsiding capacities with Ranger Drilling.

Dan Baumann commenced at Ranger Drilling at the start of 2016. Dan comes with some great foundational labouring experience, a HR licence and a geoscience degree. After travelling the world, his brother (a Driller at Ranger) suggested he get involved as a trainee.

Dan tells us what lead him to start a career at Ranger Drilling.

What lead you to study earth sciences at University initially, and how did you come to apply for a role with Ranger?

I was always interested in understanding and knowing how the earth and life works. So I began a general science degree focusing mainly on biology and earth science. I had just come back from overseas and my brother told me Ranger were currently looking to hire some new people. The role sounded like it contained a good mix between my studies and previous trade work.

How do you find working with Ranger on the projects you have worked on so far?

It’s been great. So far all the people I’ve met and worked with have been really welcoming and happy to take the time to teach me how to do the job properly and show me how things work.

What skills have you found beneficial working in drilling that has supported your studies?

Having come from an earth science background it has made it a bit easier to transition into the drilling industry, better enabling me to understand some of the drilling process and why certain things are done. Having previous experience working in various trades has also helped, however you learn something new every day.

What do you love about your role?

There is a good mix between physical and technical work. We are always doing something new and different which keeps the job interesting.

Dan is currently heading up activities on the grouting unit at Ranger Drilling. His role is based around reporting down hole, wireline activities to clients. He is currently leading this aspect of Ranger Drilling after only a short time within the business. On his R&R, Dan is an avid surfer – a far cry from Pilbara FIFO life on the Grouting Unit!