Randy Ashton

Experienced Oil & Gas Operator with over 20 years of industry experience in production operations, facility maintenance, gas compression, oil batteries, water injection systems, instrumentation, and pipeline operations. Proven track record of optimizing production, reducing operating costs, troubleshooting complex mechanical and process issues, and maintaining regulatory compliance. Strong background in contractor supervision, facility turnarounds, project planning, and equipment maintenance.

Recognized for reliability, safety leadership, problem-solving abilities, and a strong commitment to operational excellence.

Contract Oilfield Operator - North40 Resources - Drumheller, Alberta

(2024-12)

• Operate and maintain oil and gas facilities and wells.
• Monitor production and optimize facility performance.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, process, and control system issues.
• Maintain regulatory compliance and safety standards.
• Support facility upgrades, maintenance programs, and operational improvements.

Contract Oilfield Operator - BlueSky Resources - Panny Field, Red Earth Creek, Alberta

(2021-04 - 2024-12)

Key Responsibilities

• Performed daily operation and maintenance of oil and gas facilities and wells.
• Managed production reporting utilizing Avocet, Dataworx, PVR, and Production Manager software.
• Optimized wells, facilities, and gathering systems to maximize production and efficiency.
• Conducted fluid shots and monitored well fluid levels.
• Identified opportunities to reduce operating costs through downtime reduction, process improvements, and in-house maintenance activities.
• Diagnosed and resolved process, control, mechanical, and operational issues.
• Coordinated and executed new well startups.
• Participated in facility turnarounds, upgrades, and expansion projects.
• Collaborated with engineering teams on facility, well, and reservoir performance reviews.
• Ensured compliance with regulatory, environmental, and company standards.
• Conducted hazard assessments and risk evaluations.
• Supervised third-party contractors and service providers.
• Installed, repaired, and calibrated instrumentation and control systems.
• Performed switch checks, control system calibrations, and HMI setpoint adjustments.
• Troubleshot and maintained chemical injection systems and pumps.
• Assisted lead operators and foremen with planning and scheduling maintenance activities, facility turnarounds, and operational projects.
• Coordinated manpower, equipment, materials, and contractor resources.
• Developed plans to minimize production downtime and improve operational efficiency.

Contract Operator / Field Operator - Pengrowth Corporation / Imaginea Energy / Cor4 Oil Corp.

(2007-02 - 2020-09)

• Continued operations through multiple ownership transitions while maintaining production and facility performance.
• Worked in the Jenner field and gained extensive experience with sour gas plant operations and oil production facilities.
• Supported facility maintenance, production optimization, and regulatory compliance initiatives.
• Provided operational leadership and continuity during corporate transitions.

Contract Operator - Cobra Operations

(2006-05 - 2007-02)

• Contracted to Penn West Trust and ConocoPhillips operations.
• Performed daily field operations, maintenance, and production monitoring.
• Supported facility reliability and operational efficiency initiatives.

Instrumentation Technician / Shop Lead - Global Flow

(2004-09 - 2006-05)

• Installed, tested, and commissioned instrumentation systems.
• Built tubing and process packages.
• Performed pipefitting and equipment assembly.
• Assisted with SCADA wiring and programming.
• Supported shop scheduling and project completion timelines.

Maintenance Foreman - P&H Oilfield Maintenance

(2001-04 - 2004-08)

• Supervised maintenance crews and field operations.
• Operated picker trucks up to 5 tons.
• Performed welding, pipefitting, and facility maintenance.
• Coordinated pump jack moves and equipment installations.
• Managed oil battery and gas plant turnaround projects.
• Led multiple crews to ensure projects were completed safely and on schedule.

Labourer - Wes Parker Construction

(2000-04 - 2000-08)

• Worked as a labourer on residential and commercial framing crews.

High School Diploma - Brooks Composite High School (2000)