The Inaugural Geophysics Academy 2025: A Groundbreaking Success in Houston

Organizing Committee Core Team, from Left: Norbert Van De Coevering (Oxy), Simon Voisey (Oxy), Katie Baker (Chevron), Helena Zirczy (Shell).

At the onset of his presidency, the 2024/25 GSH President Mihai Popvici and Past President Tad Smith deliberated over coffee about the potential benefits of offering in-person geophysics training for the Houston Geophysical community. A year later, we made it happen! On May 6-8, 2025, the Geophysical Society of Houston (GSH) successfully hosted the inaugural Geophysics Academy training event at the Oxy Conference Center in Houston, Texas. The academy featured three days of modular four-hour courses led by world-renowned geoscientists. These courses covered a broad spectrum of topics, including advanced depth imaging, 4D seismic value streams, geomechanical applications, full waveform inversion, and many more. The event provided a unique opportunity for university students and industry professionals to acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills directly applicable to their work in geoscience.

This interaction created a dynamic learning environment where attendees could benefit from the experiences and insights of seasoned professionals. Industry experts shared cutting-edge techniques and real-world applications, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the latest advancements in geophysics. The event also offered numerous networking opportunities, enabling attendees to connect with peers and industry leaders, thereby fostering a sense of community and promoting professional growth.

The event witnessed a strong turnout, with nearly 175 registrants. This impressive number underscores the keen interest and enthusiasm within the Houston geophysics community for continuous learning and professional development.

The success of the Geophysics Academy was made possible thanks to the generous support of corporate sponsors OXY, Qeye, Zterra, Eliis, and Hess, as well as individual donors Richard Hoeksema, Katie Baker, Mihai Popvici, Simon Voisey, and Helena Zircsy. Additionally, the dedicated efforts of the organizing committee were instrumental in executing this inaugural event.

The GSH extends its gratitude to the organizing committee members: Katie Baker, Norbert Van De Coevering, Simon Voisey, Helena Zirczy, Paul Schatz, Liza Yellot, Shannon Morolez, Rene Mott, and Tad Smith. We look forward to an even more successful Geophysics Academy in 2026.