Mike Crabtree Saskatchewan is the esteemed President and CEO of the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC), where he previously excelled as Vice-President of the Energy Division. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding the organization's strategic and operational efforts across vital economic sectors such as mining, energy, and oil and gas, which are crucial to the growth of Saskatchewan's economy.
Before ascending to his current role, he served as Chairman of Quickthree Solutions and continues to chair WFI Inc., an oilfield service firm based in Texas. His professional background also includes a significant stint as a Board Member of the Canadian Heavy Oil Association, and he was the founder and CEO of Oilflow Solutions Inc. Additionally, his extensive career portfolio includes senior executive and R&D roles at Schlumberger Inc.
With over thirty years of experience in the oil and gas industry and clean energy, he has amassed a wealth of knowledge and skills in field operations, management, and research and development. His academic credentials include a Master's degree in petroleum engineering and a degree in chemistry.
He has held influential roles, including CEO, vice president, and executive chairman. In these capacities, he has managed high-performing teams, directed successful R&D projects, and strategized the implementation of innovative technologies.
He has also played significant roles in shareholder relations and board governance and excels in fundraising activities involving public and private equity.
During his tenure as Executive Chairman of WFI Inc., his leadership was crucial in guiding the company through challenging economic times and implementing cost-saving measures while preserving core services and staff. This leadership helped the company achieve significant growth from 2017 to 2018. He also led Quickthree Solutions Inc. to develop and successfully market its Frac Sand Management technology, culminating in a lucrative sale in 2018.
He is a fervent proponent of clean energy, as evidenced by his pioneering work at Carbon Engineering, where he developed and marketed innovative carbon capture and sequestration technology, eventually forming a profitable partnership with Summit Power.
His proven ability to secure significant investment was demonstrated when he attracted substantial funding from renowned global investors, securing $7 million in private equity for Monterra Energy and successfully raising $40 million for Oilflow Solutions Ltd.
His professional journey began in 1985 at Schlumberger Inc., where he started as a Petroleum and Drilling Engineer, working across the United States, Africa, and the Middle East. He also managed TR Oil Services, now known as Clariant Chemical Services.
In 2013, he took up the role of Vice-President of the Energy Division at SRC, driving substantial growth and spearheading major initiatives such as the Post Chops Well Test Centre and the Centre for the Demonstration of Emissions Reductions. In April 2019, he was appointed President and CEO. Under his leadership, SRC has seen enhanced research initiatives in oil and gas bolstered by significant grant funding. He is currently leading the development of North America's first vertically integrated Rare Earth Processing Facility and Saskatchewan's first microreactor.
Beyond his professional commitments, he enjoys squash, skiing, playing blues guitar, painting, and reading, enriching his life outside his demanding career. Mike Crabtree's leadership continues to shape the innovative landscape of Saskatchewan's key industries significantly.
