Find out how Chevening alumnus Alward Wassem is using artificial intelligence to transform the energy sector in Iraq.
Iraq is one of the world’s leading oil producers, but rising emissions are threatening the environmental and economic stability of the sector.
Faced with this challenge, Chevening alumnus Alward Wassem identified an opportunity: use artificial intelligence (AI) to modernise energy operations, reduce emissions, and promote a culture of sustainable innovation.
A decade on from completing his master’s at Heriot-Watt University, Alward is making this dream a reality. We interviewed him to find out more.
When Alward submitted his Chevening application in 2015, he knew he wanted to help Iraq transition to a cleaner, more efficient energy system.
‘Iraq’s oilfields are among the most productive in the world, yet they also represent a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions due to gas flaring, inefficient production practices, and aging infrastructure,’ he explains.
‘As the country seeks to maintain its role as a major energy exporter, it also faces increasing global pressure to decarbonise. The challenge lies in achieving meaningful emission reductions without compromising production and economic stability.’
As an accomplished geoscientist and engineer, Alward had the industry experience to back his ideas, but he knew he needed to develop his leadership skills and increase his technical knowledge in order to drive meaningful change.
The Chevening Scholarship allowed him to do just this.
‘It was an opportunity to learn in a world-class academic environment, develop global perspectives, and build a network of exceptional professionals… many of whom continue to be part of business/personal network today,’ he says.
Alward was especially interested in studying in the UK because of its culture of innovation. And he chose Heriot-Watt University’s Institute of GeoEnergy Engineering (IGE) for its internationally recognised expertise in the energy sector.
Throughout his year at Heriot-Watt, Alward took part in a multidisciplinary, industry-focused MSc programme that blended classroom learning with real-world case studies, seminars, and software training.
It was during this time that he discovered the potential of AI in energy.
Fast forward a decade and Alward is now leading the integration of AI into upstream operations across Iraq as part of his role at SLB, a global technology company ‘driving energy innovation for a balanced planet’.
‘My day-to-day work focuses on leading projects that embed AI models into core exploration, drilling, and production processes in Iraq,’ he explains. ‘These technologies help reduce waste, improve operational efficiency, and lower the carbon footprint of energy production.’
I lead initiatives that leverage machine learning and predictive analytics to identify inefficiencies and optimise production processes. Our AI systems are trained on field data to forecast critical events, detect high-impact potential incidents, and provide actionable insights for efficiency and operational adjustments.
His work isn’t just about technology though; it’s contributing to a broader cultural and strategic shift.
‘We’re aligning digital solutions with national decarbonisation goals and supporting Iraq’s path toward a more sustainable energy future.’
Alongside his technical role, Award is also leading workshops and training programmes in topical areas like geoscience, reservoir engineering, digital transformation, and AI in energy.
‘I’ve committed myself to training and mentoring Iraqi nationals across the country, many of whom are now contributing directly to digital projects within Iraq,’ he says. ‘These efforts not only strengthen local expertise but also ensure that the knowledge and tools we deploy become embedded in the national capability.’
Looking ahead, Alward plans to expand his work further by scaling AI-powered solutions for emissions monitoring and flare reduction. At the same time, he remains focused on developing Iraq’s human capital through knowledge-sharing and mentorship.
‘By combining advanced AI with practical energy expertise and a strong focus on local capacity building, I believe we can turn Iraq’s environmental challenges into opportunities for leadership in the global energy transition.’
Alward’s journey from Chevening scholar to sector leader is just one example of the long-term impact of the Chevening programme.
Chevening empowered me to become not just a technical expert, but a changemaker… It gave me the confidence to lead, the vision to innovate, and the global perspective needed to tackle complex challenges.
Where could Chevening take you?
Applications close on 7 October 2025!
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