Lloydminster Oilfield Technical Society         P. O. Box 2084         Lloydminster, SK  S9V 1R5

History of the Society

The Lloydminster Oilfield Technical Society was formed in 1982 with the objective to organize a Heavy Oil Show in September of 1982. The first show was held a couple of years previously and was sponsored by Homco International, a supply company active in the local oil patch. Gene Connett was the manager of Homco at the time.  Gene felt that such a show had potential for growth but wanted to let somebody else take on the promotion of the oil show.

After some discussion with other people in the oil patch it was decided that the best way to promote an oil show was by forming a Society made up of people employed in the oil patch.  Some of the original members involved in these discussions were Matt McNaughton, Bob Just, Doug Dammon, Gary Bilanski, Dave Addie, Darrel McDougall, Orville Stark, Darrel McKenna, Bruce Lumb, Gene Connett and numerous others.

The Lloydminster Oilfield Technical Society was granted its Charter on May 12, 1982. The Charter was signed by Matt McNaughton, Doug Dammon, Bob Just, Darrel McKenna, Gene Connett, Bruce Lumb, Gary Bilanski and witnessed by Les Gillian. The first membership totaled 52 men from all segments of the industry. The Membership has grown steadily over the years to the current total of 96. Membership fees have remained at $20.00 as they were in the first year.

Meetings are held the first Monday of the month from September to June.   Membership dues are renewed every September. New executives are elected every October and the Lloydminster Heavy Oil Show executive is elected every second year.

The first executive was:    Matt McNaughton    - President
                                        Bob Just               - Vice-President
                                        Bruce Lumb           - Secretary
                                        Gary Bilanski          - Treasurer
                                        Orville Stark           - Director
                                        Darrel McKenna       - Director
                                        Doug Dammon         - Director
                                        Mike Schnell            - Director

The first Oil show was held in September 1982 with over 300 exhibitors, making it one of the most successful shows in Lloydminster. The show has grown to be one of the most popular oil shows in Canada with exhibitors from all over Canada and some from the United States. Visitors have come from as far away as Russia, China, and South America.