The Newfoundland and Labrador Oil and Gas Industries Association (Noia) has announced the recipients for its 2019 Outstanding Contribution and Rising Star Awards.
The Outstanding Contribution Award will be presented to Lee Shinkle. The award “recognizes exemplary contribution of an individual who, through the course of their work and personal life, has influenced the development of the offshore oil and gas industry.”
Shinkle has worked in the Newfoundland and Labrador industry for more than 45 years, starting in marine and aviation insurance before moving into the oil and gas industry in the 1980s, including helping to create AMI Offshore Inc. where he led company growth to over 300 employees and offices throughout Atlantic Canada, as well as Houston and Brazil.
“He was instrumental in implementing a new structure and strategic plan for Petroleum Research Atlantic Canada (PRAC) to fund industry research. He continued his career at Jacques Whitford as the Business Development Leader and Sustainability Champion and when acquired by Stantec, Lee led the creation of a strategic growth plan in Newfoundland and Labrador. In 2011, he was appointed Regional Business Development Leader for Atlantic Canada for Stantec and later added Nunavut,” a statement from Noia said. “Lee served as Noia President in 1991 and as a director with numerous companies and volunteer organizations. He has been named one of the Top 50 CEOs in Atlantic Canada and one of the Top 50 Leaders in the Oil & Gas Industry in Newfoundland and Labrador. He remains a tremendous advocate for the offshore industry.”
The Rising Star Award will go to Capt. Kristopher Drodge, an offshore installation manager on board the Transocean Barents. The award “recognizes outstanding achievement by an oil and gas industry member who has demonstrated significant achievement and is 40 years of age or younger.”
The Torbay native is a graduate of the Marine Institute Nautical Science and Memorial University Maritime Studies programs and has more than 15 years’ experience in Newfoundland and Labrador’s offshore oil and gas industry.
“Beginning his career as a Ballast Control Operator on the GSF Grand Banks, he has steadily progressed through leadership roles in the offshore, having been one of the youngest OIM’s on an offshore semi-submersible in Canada,” Noia said. An advocate for a modern and safe offshore working environment, Captain Drodge has also been a part-time faculty member at his alma matter and contributed to the development and offering of offshore safety courses. His recent contributions to the industry include involvement and leadership in the jurisdictional intakes of two drill rigs, as well as revision of industry regulations and the management of the required training and qualifications for offshore personnel.”
Shinkle and Drodge will be presented with their awards at
Noia’s industry achievement awards luncheon Feb. 26 at the Delta St. John’s Hotel & Conference Centre.
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