The midstream energy sector is feeling the pressure of a nationwide talent shortage. As demand for experienced field technicians, inspectors, and compliance personnel rises, fewer qualified professionals are available to step into these roles. For many operators, this poses a critical challenge—unless they have the right partner.
Percheron, LLC is helping clients tackle the skilled labor shortage through a combination of talent retention, integrated team strategies, and cutting-edge technology. This article explores how strategic workforce management and tech adoption are keeping midstream projects on track and compliant.
Building a Resilient Workforce: Retention Over Recruitment
The key to navigating labor shortages isn’t just hiring more people—it’s retaining and developing the ones you have. Percheron focuses on long-term workforce stability through:
- Comprehensive training programs
- Cross-functional skill development
- Mentorship and career-pathing
- Strong safety culture and field support
These strategies help reduce turnover, boost morale, and encourage high performance in the field.
Percheron’s approach to talent management includes:
- Competitive compensation and benefits
- Safety-driven leadership culture
- Employee recognition and growth pathways
By investing in people, Percheron minimizes churn and builds loyalty—key to maintaining institutional knowledge and high standards in remote or demanding field environments.
How Technology Fills the Gaps
Smart technology is playing a critical role in overcoming skilled labor shortages. Percheron leverages advanced digital tools to boost productivity, improve data accuracy, and reduce the number of field personnel needed.
Key tools include:
- GIS and mobile data platforms for real-time mapping and reporting
- Drones and UAVs for surveying and inspection in hard-to-reach areas
- Automated reporting systems for compliance tracking and audit readiness
- Remote collaboration tools to reduce travel and site visits
This technology allows a smaller team to achieve more with less, eliminating inefficiencies and increasing transparency across project phases.
Case Example: Technology in Action
On a recent right-of-way inspection project in East Texas, Percheron deployed a hybrid team of field agents and drone operators. Using UAVs for overhead imagery and mobile apps for digital reporting:
- Field time was reduced by 40%
- Fewer boots on the ground were required
- Data accuracy improved, leading to faster regulatory filings
By combining technology and talent, Percheron met tight project deadlines without overburdening limited field staff.
The Integrated O&M Advantage
Traditional O&M models require operators to manage multiple vendors, often with overlapping scopes and inconsistent standards. Percheron’s integrated model solves this by offering a single-source solution—fewer people, fewer contracts, faster delivery.
In a labor-constrained market, that’s a major advantage. Integrated teams reduce friction, share knowledge, and move faster. When powered by tech and guided by sound workforce strategy, this model creates scalable results that midstream operators can count on.
The skilled labor shortage isn’t going away—but it doesn’t have to derail your midstream projects. With the right mix of integrated services, smart technology, and workforce strategy, companies like Percheron are helping energy operators work leaner, faster, and smarter.
If you're looking for a partner who can deliver results—even when labor is tight—Percheron has the tools, the talent, and the track record to deliver.