On behalf of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG), the Canadian Society of Petroleum Geologist (CSPG), the Society of Sedimentary Geologists (SEPM), and the Organizing Committee of ACE 2016, I am happy to welcome you to Calgary, Alberta, Canada and the Annual Convention and Exhibition of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists – Redefining Reservoir.

You will find the city and the conference a welcoming place. Calgary is a young, dynamic city of 1.2 million people. Although large by Canadian standards the downtown is compact and is easily investigated on foot. During your trip you should take some time to wander along the river pathway system, visit the trendy restaurants along Stephen Avenue and Eau Claire, rent a bike and discover the bike pathway system (one of the largest in North America). But don’t spend too much time away from the Convention. This year’s technical program is unrivalled for both quality and quantity. There will be intriguing new ideas, intellectually stimulating discussion, and revolutionary new techniques for you to discover in the technical program. The challenge will be on how you choose to spend your time.

This year’s convention occurs in one of the most difficult times faced by the petroleum industry in recent memory. Many of the business talks will focus on how to move forward against such adversity. The lessons learned in these sessions will prove invaluable in the coming years as all of us learn how to maintain creativity and innovation in times of restraint. Other sessions will focus on the advances in our science and how we can apply those advances to improve our technical and economic success. It is in times of constraint that we learn how to innovate. This convention will fill you with new ideas on how to do more with limited resources.

One of the highlights of the convention is seeing old friends, re-engaging with colleagues and meeting new contacts that often continue for several years. The exhibition floor is an excellent place for you to network and at the same time see new technology or how old technology is applied in new ways. The exhibitors are here for you, take time to visit their booths and discuss with them the latest technology and techniques.

Many volunteers have given their time to make this week a success for you. They do this because they see the value is contributing to the science and engaging with their colleagues. Their hope is that you look back on this week as a time of enlightenment and education. They hope you are able to meet old friends and make new friendships. My hope is that you are able to take full advantage of the conference and the city. Thank you again for joining us in Calgary, I am delighted that you are able to join us for a fun and fascinating week.

Paul MacKay

General Chair
AAPG 2016 Annual Convention & Exhibition