WINTER 2011
ISSUE 7
Steven Paterson

Welder, Sedco 714 (formerly on the J.W. McLean)

UK North Sea

Steven was in complete disbelief when it was announced he was a FIRST Excellence Award recipient during a conference call with management in Aberdeen. This news was not a shock to Steven’s colleagues. Steven has been a Welder for 23 years, five of them with Transocean. During his years on the J.W. McLean, Steven has put forth praiseworthy efforts in developing the safety culture and as a mentor for new personnel.

“He understands the balance required to produce the best results for the company and keeps this in mind at all times,” said Rig Safety and Training Coordinator Mike Zielinski. “Nothing is ever a problem and he has frequently gone the extra mile to ensure desired results are achieved from something simple such as working overtime to perform work in the accommodation to taking the time to design the hands-free lay down system. I enjoy working with Steven and consider him to be integral to the safety culture onboard the J.W. McLean and an asset to the company in general.”

Steven’s ability to assess risk is second to none and he can quickly see potential for harm to either himself or those working with him. During the year, the rig ran a safety poster campaign with the customer. Steven led the way and was featured regularly in the campaign. His commitment to safety also earned him the Safety Champion Award.

Giving much gratitude to his colleagues, Steven truly appreciates the people, experiences, and knowledge he has received from the J.W. McLean. “It is not just me,” he said. “There are a lot of experienced guys on the rig, guys who have 30 to 35 years experience. When I started I was new to the rig and to the industry. These guys mentored me, shared their knowledge and experience with me. That counts for a lot.”

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