Insights from the IADD Annual Technical Forum 2025

This week, Innova’s Sales and Marketing Manager, Jennifer Gillan, attended the IADD Annual Technical Forum 2025, hosted by Oxy in The Woodlands, Texas. The event brought together industry experts, operators, and technology leaders to discuss the latest advancements and challenges in rotary steering and for the second day, wellbore positioning.

Key Themes and Takeaways

1. Survey Correction and Uncertainty Reduction
A major focus of this year’s forum was on survey accuracy - specifically, the methods and technologies used to reduce positional uncertainty. Presentations explored new approaches to error modeling, real-time correction workflows, and data validation, all aimed at improving safety, well placement accuracy, and operational efficiency.

2. U-Turn Wells and Complex Geometries
The concept of U-Turn wells generated significant interest and discussion. These innovative well paths are moving from theoretical design to real-world application, offering opportunities for improved reservoir access - but also presenting new challenges in surveying, trajectory control, and collision management.

3. AI and the Future of Drilling Automation
Artificial Intelligence was a standout topic throughout the forum. Speakers and panelists shared how AI-driven analytics are being integrated into drilling workflows - from predictive maintenance and trajectory optimization to autonomous decision-making systems. The message was clear: AI is not just an emerging trend but a transformative force in drilling automation and real-time operations.

Collaboration and Innovation

Beyond the technical sessions, the event highlighted the collaborative spirit that defines the IADD community. By fostering open discussions and knowledge-sharing across operators, service companies, and technology providers, the forum continues to play a vital role in advancing industry best practices and innovation.

Looking Ahead

At Innova, we remain committed to supporting the industry’s evolution through innovative drilling software, survey management, and wellbore positioning tools that empower our partners to achieve greater accuracy, efficiency, and confidence in every well drilled.

A huge thank-you to the IADD and Oxy teams for organizing such an impactful event. We’re looking forward to continuing the conversation and contributing to the future of intelligent drilling systems.