Panel 2 at Future Oil & Gas 2026 brought together industry experts from Aker BP, Spirit Energy, Prometheus Group and Cenosco to discuss autonomous operations, AI-driven asset integrity and the role of cross-asset data hubs in supporting safer, more intelligent decision-making.
The discussion began by unpacking what autonomy really means in an operational context. Rather than treating autonomous operations as a single end goal, the panel highlighted the importance of distinguishing between automation and autonomy, setting clear expectations and identifying which functions can create value when supported by AI. The conversation also reinforced that autonomy should not be pursued for its own sake, but linked to specific operational problems, risk profiles and business outcomes.
A major focus was responsible AI in safety-critical environments. Panellists discussed the risks of hallucination, the need for continuous assurance, and why governance must extend beyond static compliance checklists. As AI becomes more embedded in asset integrity, reliability, inspection and operational workflows, the panel emphasised the need for lifecycle monitoring, clear accountability and validation of AI outputs before they influence critical decisions.
The discussion also explored the human and organisational side of AI adoption. From leadership support and AI literacy to domain expertise and workforce enablement, Panel 2 highlighted that successful deployment depends on people who understand both the operational problem and the digital tools available. The panel also addressed edge AI, connectivity challenges and the practical realities of applying autonomous capabilities across complex upstream environments.
Watch the full panel discussion to gain deeper insight into how operators and technology providers are approaching autonomous operations, responsible AI governance, asset integrity and the creation of connected data foundations across industrial assets.
Speakers
Dr.Edmary Altamiranda , Business Transformational Technology & R and D Lead, Controls & Systems Engineering Aker BP
Glen Milne, Production Systems Manager, Spirit Energy
Tyra Jones, Solution Engineer, EMEA, Prometheus Group
Rahul Kejriwal, CEO, Cenosco
Moderator
Sofia Silvestre, AI Delivery Manager, Galp
