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A method of extracting heavy oil or bitumen by injecting steam underground to heat and mobilise the resource. Common techniques include SAGD (Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage) and CSS (Cyclic Steam Stimulation). Subcontractors support these operations through facility construction, pipefitting, instrumentation, and ongoing maintenance work.

A large self-propelled machine that cuts, crushes, and loads material in a single pass without blasting. Subcontractors operating surface miners must hold specialised equipment certifications and follow strict site safety protocols. Common in oil sands and open-pit construction projects across Western Canada.

The date when drilling begins on a new well. Marks the start of drilling operations.

A surface removal process where a rotating drum grinds down asphalt or concrete without heat. Subcontractors use it for road rehabilitation, pad preparation, and surface levelling on well sites or construction projects. Reclaimed material is often reused, reducing disposal costs.

Work involving equipment or piping that handles highly alkaline chemicals, such as sodium hydroxide. Subcontractors must use compatible materials and certified personnel to avoid rapid corrosion and serious chemical burns. Specialised PPE and handling procedures are typically required by the client's safety plan.

A method operators use to value oil and gas reserves by discounting future cash flows at 10% annually. Higher NPV10 signals a healthier client who can fund long-term projects and honour contracts. Subcontractors can use it to gauge whether a prospect client's asset base justifies pursuing work with them.

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.