Brent Crude

A drilling schedule where wells are spaced consecutively with minimal downtime between completions. For subcontractors, it means sustained mobilisation of crews and equipment across multiple well sites. Expect extended contract durations but also compressed turnaround times between locations.

The full sequence of extracting, processing, transporting, and selling natural gas liquids such as propane, butane, and ethane. Subcontractors work across multiple stages, including plant turnarounds, pipeline installation, and fractionation facility maintenance. Activity levels and contract demand shift depending on which part of the chain is seeing investment.

A preliminary document outlining the key commercial terms agreed between parties before a formal contract is finalised. For subcontractors, it signals serious intent but is not always legally binding. Avoid mobilising crews or purchasing materials based solely on an HoA.

Minerals deemed essential to national economies and energy transition, such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earths. Extraction and processing projects for these materials are driving significant new field service demand across Canada. Subcontractors with mining or remote site experience are well-positioned to pursue this growing work.

Vessels, piping, and heat exchangers designed to handle fluids at extremely low temperatures, typically below -150°C. Common in LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) facilities and gas processing plants. Subcontractors must hold specialised certifications and use compatible tools and PPE when servicing this equipment.

A U.S. federal fund that finances highway and infrastructure construction projects. Subcontractors bidding on federally funded road or infrastructure work must meet strict compliance and wage requirements tied to this funding. Budget cycles and congressional approvals directly affect project timelines and payment schedules.

How Operator Mergers and Acquisitions Affect Your Subcontract Agreements

When operators merge, get acquired, or sell assets, subcontractor agreements are caught in the middle. Learn how M&A activity affects your MSA, payment terms, vendor status, and what to do before, during, and after a deal closes.

How Rig Count Trends Affect Subcontractor Demand and What to Do About It

Rig counts are the earliest signal of where field service work is heading. Learn how to read drilling activity trends, anticipate demand shifts, and position your crew before the phone stops ringing.

What Is an AFE in Oil and Gas and How Does It Affect Subcontractor Payments?

An AFE (Authorization for Expenditure) controls every dollar spent on an oilfield project. Learn how it affects your billing, change orders, and cash flow as a subcontractor.