Team Monster Inc, consisting of Hafiq Fadillah, Fauzan Faris Wirdiyan, Melva Ummairra Shelima, and Mutiara Yasmin, participated in the Well Stimulation Competition, one of the main categories in the INCEPTION 2026 series. The competition carried the theme “Revitalizing Legacy Technologies for a Sustainable Energy Future” and focused on testing participants’ critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork through real-world case studies in the petroleum industry.

In the competition, participants were asked to analyze problems in an old oil well and propose solutions based on the given technical objectives. Interestingly, the team took a different approach compared to most of the other participants. After conducting technical analysis, economic evaluation, and hydraulic fracturing simulations, the team found that although the well production increased, the results were still not sufficient to cover the required costs. Therefore, the team concluded that the well would be more economical without well stimulation. Based on these findings, they recommended not carrying out the process. This different decision became one of the team’s strengths in front of the judges.

In addition to presenting a technically strong solution, the team also delivered a creative and innovative presentation approach. Besides using PowerPoint slides, they prepared self-designed x-banners and flyers to help visualize their ideas for the judges. This approach was considered effective in improving both clarity and presentation quality.

Behind their achievement, the team faced significant challenges in balancing the competition with their final-year academic responsibilities. Some team members were even attending thesis supervision sessions on the day of the award ceremony. Nevertheless, their commitment from the beginning enabled them to manage priorities and complete the competition successfully.

During the preparation process, the team also received support and valuable input from their supervisor, Dr. Dedy Irawan, S.T., M.T., as well as fellow students who had previous experience in similar competitions. Their guidance helped the team better understand the competition process and strengthen both presentation readiness and technical analysis.

For some members, reaching the final stage was a memorable first experience. Feelings of nervousness and pressure were unavoidable, but the experience became an important lesson about courage, confidence, and the importance of seizing opportunities.

Through this experience, the team hopes other students will not hesitate to participate in similar competitions. “As long as you have the confidence and courage to start, every opportunity should be utilized as best as possible. When the opportunity and time come, do not hesitate to take it and commit fully to the process,” said Mutiara Yasmin.

Reporter: Indah Marcelinawati (Urban and Regional Planning, 2022)