Traditional energy companies are racing to keep pace with the digital transformation imperative they can no longer ignore. What was once a “nice-to-have” technology initiative has become a matter of survival and competitive differentiation.
Amit Prakash, Head of Oil & Gas for the U.S. and Europe at NTT Data, and a certified Chief Digital AI Officer and Chief Innovation Officer, has spent nearly two decades helping oil and gas organizations navigate this fundamental shift. His background bridges deep engineering expertise with hands-on digital implementation experience across the energy value chain — spanning Data, AI, and Cybersecurity.
Transforming a Career from Engineering to Digital
Amit’s journey into digital transformation began on the engineering side of the oil and gas industry. “I started out as an engineer, but around 2006–2007, I began moving into digital programs,” he recalls. His pivotal moment came when he led the Field of the Future program for a major oil company across North America — a large-scale initiative focused on data-driven field operations.
That experience revealed a core truth: most energy companies already possessed the data and technology — but lacked integration. “The challenge wasn’t about acquiring new tools; it was about breaking down data silos,” Amit explains.
He distilled his early learnings into a simple but powerful framework:
- Establish solid data foundations.
- Integrate IT and operational technology (OT) systems.
- Equip the workforce to use digital tools effectively.
“The data was already there — we just had to connect it and empower people to use it,” he notes. Importantly, Amit took a hands-on approach: upskilling himself on every new system before teaching others. “I was the one training the workforce, helping them understand the products and how to work differently with them.” This direct engagement gave him a pragmatic understanding of what works in the field — not just in strategy documents.
Facing Urgent Transformation Demands
Today, the urgency is undeniable. “Digital transformation is no longer optional,” Amit asserts. “It’s imperative if you want to survive and thrive in this ever-evolving industry.”
Energy companies face pressure from multiple fronts — regulatory tightening, market volatility, and the rapid integration of renewables. Amit envisions this evolution leading to what he calls “cognitive assets” — autonomous facilities capable of managing and optimizing their own operations.
“The ultimate goal,” he explains, “is to create plants, refineries, and oilfields that can understand their maintenance needs, predict failures, and continuously optimize themselves.” While the industry isn’t there yet, the trajectory is clear: intelligent, self-managing energy systems are the future.
Applying Digital Innovation Across Energy
Digital transformation isn’t limited to traditional hydrocarbons — the same innovations are redefining renewables. “Digital technologies are equally powerful in both oil and gas and renewable energy,” Amit says. The AI and analytics tools that optimize refineries can also optimize wind farms and solar plants.
He notes an upcoming surge in global energy demand — driven partly by the rapid expansion of Generative AI data centers, which require massive power infrastructure. “Energy demand is going to explode,” Amit predicts. “That means both traditional and renewable energy systems must operate more efficiently than ever before.”
This creates opportunities for digital solutions that enhance efficiency, reliability, and sustainability — regardless of the energy source.
Selling Results, Not Technology
Amit’s biggest insight for driving transformation adoption? Don’t lead with technology — lead with outcomes.
“The best strategy is to sell results, not technology,” he advises. “Executives care about measurable impact — reduced downtime, cost savings, improved efficiency. You have to show how digital tools translate into real business value.”
This philosophy has guided Amit’s success across numerous deployments. By focusing on measurable benefits, not technical specifications, he’s helped multiple energy operators accelerate their digital maturity and realize tangible ROI.
Looking Ahead
As the energy sector undergoes one of the most profound transformations in its history, leaders like Amit Prakash are helping organizations bridge the gap between engineering excellence and digital innovation. The convergence of AI, data, and automation is redefining how energy companies operate — and those that act decisively today will define the industry of tomorrow.
Follow Amit Prakash on LinkedIn or visit his website to explore more of his insights on digital innovation in energy.
