Chartered Smart Drilling Systems & Automation Engineer (CSDAE)®
Certification Overview
The Chartered Smart Drilling Systems & Automation Engineer (CSDAE)® is a globally recognized credential from the International Board of Oil and Gas Professionals (IBOGP®), created to certify the next generation of drilling engineers operating at the frontier of smart technologies and automation in well construction.
As oil and gas exploration moves deeper, riskier, and more data-intensive, the need for engineers who can deploy smart sensors, operate robotic drilling rigs, and interpret real-time wellbore telemetry is at an all-time high. This certification equips professionals with the technical expertise, digital fluency, and decision-making capabilities to lead in the era of automated and precision drilling systems.
Why the CSDAE® Certification Matters
- Equips professionals with the skills required for intelligent drilling operations
- Bridges traditional petroleum engineering with emerging automation, robotics, and AI
- Aligns with ANSI-accredited certification standards and global best practices
- Validates competency in real-time risk management and drilling performance optimization
- Opens career pathways in digital drilling transformation, rig automation, and AI-enhanced well planning
Certification Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, candidates will be able to:
- Apply smart sensor technologies for downhole and surface data acquisition
- Operate and troubleshoot robotic and automated drilling systems
- Implement real-time monitoring tools for pressure, torque, and bit trajectory control
- Analyze and act on telemetry data to reduce drilling non-productive time (NPT)
- Optimize wellbore construction using AI-based models and digital twins
- Integrate drilling systems with rig control platforms, safety systems, and cloud analytics
Course Modules
- Introduction to Smart Drilling Systems
- Advanced Drilling Automation Technologies
- Robotic Rigs and Remote-Operated Drilling Equipment
- Real-Time Wellbore Monitoring and Data Acquisition
- AI and Machine Learning in Drilling Optimization
- Digital Twins and Predictive Maintenance in Drilling Systems
- Well Control Integration with Smart Systems
- HSE Compliance and Cybersecurity in Automated Drilling
AssessmentDomains
Drilling Systems Automation and Robotics
Real-Time Well Monitoring and Telemetry
Predictive Analytics and AI Algorithms in Drilling
Smart Sensor Deployment and Calibration
Wellbore Integrity and Drilling Risk Management
Digital Twin Architecture for Drilling Operations
Regulatory and Safety Compliance in Automation Systems
Who Should Enroll?
This certification is ideal for:
- Drilling Engineers and Field Supervisors
- Rig Automation Specialists and System Integrators
- Well Engineers and Directional Drilling Technicians
- Petroleum Engineers transitioning to smart drilling roles
- Digital Drilling Transformation Consultants
- HSE Professionals involved in automated rig safety
- Data Scientists working on drilling analytics
- Control and Instrumentation Engineers in E&P operations
Certification Benefits
Official designation as CSDAE® with global recognition
Enhanced opportunities in high-tech drilling projects and automated rig systems
Competitive edge in the era of digital oilfields and intelligent operations
Membership in IBOGP®'s Smart Drilling Technology Network
Ongoing access to learning resources, technical papers, and industry forums
Contributes to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and ANSI compliance
How to Prepare
01
Enroll in the official CRFPT® online course or instructor-led bootcamp.
02
Access simulated SCADA platforms and interactive IoT visualization dashboards.
03
Review HSE modules, digital twin use cases, and case studies from global operators.
04
Practice with datasets from real-world remote operations centers (ROCs).
About the CSDAE® Examination
- Format: 100 questions (Multiple Choice + Case Studies)
- Mode: Online proctored or approved testing centers
- Duration:90 minutes
- Passing Score: 70%
- Validity: 3 years (renewable via CPD points and digital recertification)
- Credential Awarded: Digital certificate, badge, and public directory listing
Certification Fee
- Standard Fee: $495 USD
- Academic/Government Discount: $350 USD
- Fee Includes: Digital study kit, mock exam access, certification exam, credential package, and IBOGP® membership
How to Register
- 1. Visit: www.IBOGP®.org/C-SDAE
- 2. Complete the online application form and upload relevant credentials
- 3. Receive access to exam preparation resources
- 4. Schedule your examination
- 5. Get certified and join the global Smart Drilling & Automation elite
Be the Future of Precision Drilling
With CSDAE®, you’re not just learning how to drill — you’re mastering the future of autonomous well delivery. Lead with intelligence. Operate with precision. Deliver with confidence.
Paced Training, Exam Fees
Payment covers the exam only. Complimentary exam guide and practice questions will be provided to assist you.
Instructor-Led Training
Enroll in a 5-day program with 2 hours of live instruction each day, led by industry experts for $4,500 USD.
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