At the 2024 AWS Energy Symposium, Continental Resources’ Brian Morris and PwC’s Kumar Satyam talked about how generative AI is transforming the energy sector. Through their partnership, both companies are leveraging generative AI to create efficient, data-driven solutions that boost productivity and safety within Continental’s operations.

Morris opened by underlining AI’s disruptive potential, stating: “Generative AI is probably the most revolutionary technology I’ve seen in the last 20 years.” He explained that Continental Resources initially implemented AWS in 2017, but the introduction of generative AI — specifically, large language models like GPT — compelled them to expand their digital strategy. According to Morris, AI’s capabilities have driven Continental to adapt quickly. “We had to look at our strategy and determine how we could integrate generative AI before we fell behind,” he added.

PwC’s Satyam agreed, remarking on the unique accessibility generative AI offers to companies that previously relied on advanced data science teams to execute AI initiatives.

“With these large language models, you don’t need extensive data science expertise. You can place this technology directly into the hands of the people who need it most,” Satyam explained. He described this as a paradigm shift that allows non-technical staff to access data and make informed decisions without navigating complex analytics systems.

A key application of this technology at Continental is health, safety, and environmental (HSE) monitoring. Morris illustrated how AI helps field workers access critical safety documents instantly, ensuring they have the information they need without leaving their worksite.

“They can speak into their phone and receive not just summaries but also direct access to original documents. That transparency is vital for their safety and efficiency,” Morris noted.

PwC’s collaboration strategy, which prioritizes “pilot, prove, and scale,” ensures that generative AI solutions are implemented incrementally. Satyam elaborated: “By starting small, proving value, and scaling gradually, we ensure that each AI solution delivers tangible business outcomes.” This approach has been particularly effective at Continental, where AI tools are developed with immediate business needs in mind. “Our innovation sessions allowed us to align directly with what the business wanted, not just what the technology could deliver,” he added.

One of the most transformative aspects of generative AI, Morris shared, is its ability to bridge knowledge gaps among employees, especially newer team members.

“Our goal is to make a two-year employee almost as effective as someone with twelve years of experience. By utilizing AI, we can capture and transfer critical knowledge seamlessly,” he said.

With their strong partnership, Continental Resources and PwC are pioneering a future where generative AI is integral to the energy industry.

“In a few years, generative AI won’t be a ‘nice-to-have’ — it’ll be essential,” Morris concluded. Satyam echoed this sentiment, urging companies to “trust in the technology” and use it strategically for maximum value. Together, Continental and PwC are setting a new standard for AI integration in the energy sector, demonstrating that, when done right, AI can empower teams and improve operational safety.