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Yachtze Luchin
Yachtze Luchin is the president and CEO of Unite Oil & Gas International (UOGI), a multi-firm organization specializing in hydrocarbon exploration, development and production using the most efficient technology to minimize environmental impact. “No molecule left behind,” is the governing operational principle of this organization, representing a unique niche opportunity to explore and develop hydrocarbon resources that have been considered marginal by major oil companies.
Yachtze realized that with lower overhead, proprietary techniques to facilitate low development costs and a keen focus on maximizing reservoir recovery, UOGI could introduce a lucrative new business model for hydrocarbon operations and services in West Africa – to start.
Under the UOGI umbrella are three companies: Unite Oil & Gas Consulting, which provides guidance in the hydrocarbon industry to government entities and partners; Unite Oil & Gas Facilities & Drilling Services, a comprehensive suite of facilities, equipment and drilling services; and Unite Oil & Gas Development & Production, which focuses on the development and production of hydrocarbon assets.
Yachtze leads a global team of professionals who have decades of experience in every aspect of the oil and gas industry. Collectively they have worked in more than 60 locations on six continents with approximately $14 billion in asset transactions. With a focus on development and production of “marginal” fields in West Africa, Unite’s goal is to create more inclusive partnerships with African national oil companies – partnerships that empower oil and gas professionals in the region and economically support the communities in which they work.
Unite’s first partnership deal is with Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (the National Petroleum Company of the Congo, SNPC) located in the Republic of the Congo. Their contract, which focuses on restoration of wells and field explorations, has the potential to produce approximately 177,000 barrels per day yielding nearly $6b in revenue. UOGI has also recently entered a partnership with the Nigerian firm Segofs Energy Services Limited (SEGOFS) to provide drilling and wireline services for hydrocarbon projects in West Africa.
Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Yachtze, as a child, had an aptitude for math, which led to him pursuing a BS in mechanical engineering from Lamar University, and later an MBA in finance from University of St. Thomas in Houston. He has more than 25 years in a broad range of engineering and leadership roles for major oil and gas companies that include Noble Energy and Chevron. His experiences have given him a keen understanding of not only the opportunities that exist in West Africa, but how Unite can make a positive and lasting impact by enhancing the capabilities of the people and companies in the communities they serve to ensure a more sustainable and prosperous environment for everyone involved.