From the alumina refineries of Western Australia and the Northern Territory to the pioneering liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities of Queensland, Michael English’s career has mirrored the evolution of Australia’s energy landscape.
Now, more than a decade after being part of the launch of LNG operations in Gladstone, he’s come full circle with a work assignment in Western Australia to support the startup of another LNG facility using the ConocoPhillips Optimized Cascade® process technology.
With deep operational expertise and a passion for mentoring, Michael is supporting ConocoPhillips’ LNG Technology & Licensing division, providing other operators with highly efficient natural gas liquefaction solutions.
Michael’s story with ConocoPhillips began in 2013, when he joined the first intake of 20 operations technicians for the Australia Pacific LNG (APLNG) project in Gladstone. It was Queensland’s first LNG training program, and for Michael, it was a defining moment.
“It was a diverse group, and everyone brought something different to the table,” he recalled. “The foundations training gave us a solid start, and it set the tone for everything that followed.”
Michael’s deep understanding of process operations started through more than a decade in alumina refining (alumina is the primary material used to produce aluminum) that bridged across to his first LNG role at ConocoPhillips.
Over the past 12 years, Michael has undertaken many roles at the APLNG facility: operations technician, operations specialist, operations superintendent — and mentor. He’s led crews, supported major shutdowns and played a key role in commissioning activities.
“Working across three different crews was a highlight,” he said. “The people at the APLNG facility are what make it such a great place to work. There’s a real sense of camaraderie and pride.”
Now based in Karratha, Michael is on a temporary assignment with the LNG Technology & Licensing team, supporting the implementation of ConocoPhillips’ Optimized Cascade® LNG technology, the same technology used at the APLNG facility.
“My focus is on the control room — validating procedures, training operators using the simulator, and ultimately supporting the safe startup of the facility,” he said.
The assignment is expected to run for 12 to 18 months, depending on project progress. For Michael, it’s not just a new role, it’s a long-held aspiration.
“I’ve been interested in joining the LNG Technology and Licensing team for a while," he said. "This role is a great fit for my experience, and I’m excited to contribute to another successful project.”
Michael is known for his calm leadership style and hands-on approach. He believes in being present, listening to his team and leading with integrity.
“I’ve always believed in leading by example,” he said. “Whether it’s during a shutdown or a startup, being present and supportive makes all the difference.”
He’s also passionate about mentoring the next generation of operators, something he sees as essential to the company’s long-term success.
“It’s rewarding to see people grow into their roles," he said. "I’ve had great mentors, and I try to pay that forward.”
For ConocoPhillips, this is another opportunity to showcase the strength and reliability of its LNG technology across the globe. For Michael, it’s a personal and professional milestone.
“A successful startup will reinforce the efficiency of our Optimized Cascade® process,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity for us to showcase what we do best. Looking back, I’m proud of how far we’ve come as a team and as a company, and I’m excited to see where this next chapter takes us.”
Family, music, and making it work
Outside of work, Michael’s world revolves around family. With both kids active in music — Lily on drums and Max on guitar — there’s rarely a quiet moment at home.
He and his wife, Sarah, who also works in LNG operations, juggle shift work and school schedules with a shared love of live music, road trips and time together on their rural property.
“It’s busy,” Michael said, “but we wouldn’t have it any other way.”
