Nicholas Fornicola
Director of Data Technology
Innovative technology leader driving digital transformation through advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI. Proven track record of delivering $20M+ in cost savings and building high-performing data science teams.
About Nicholas
Transforming businesses through innovative data technology solutions and strategic leadership
Professional Summary
Innovative technology and data science leader with 12+ years of experience building and mentoring high-performing teams, driving digital transformation, and delivering measurable business value through advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI.
Proven ability to partner cross-functionally with business, technical, and executive stakeholders to develop data-driven strategies, scalable data infrastructure, and actionable insights. Passionate about developing safe, ethical, and beneficial AI solutions that positively impact society.
Recognized for exceptional leadership, communication, and a commitment to fostering inclusive, collaborative team cultures that drive innovation and operational excellence.
Key Achievements
Business Impact
$20M+ in cost savings through data-driven analytics and strategic vendor negotiations
Team Leadership
Built and mentored high-performing data science teams across multiple organizations
Digital Transformation
Led enterprise-wide AI strategy implementation and machine learning program expansion
Innovation
4 patents in predictive maintenance technology with proven 85%+ accuracy rates
Industry Recognition
Featured on the Energy Bytes Podcast discussing AI applications in oil and gas, predictive maintenance innovations, and the future of data-driven decision making in the energy sector. Recognized for thought leadership in generative AI implementation and multimodal data pipeline development.
Professional Experience
12+ years of progressive leadership in data technology, engineering, and digital transformation
BEUSA Energy / Evolution Well Services
The Woodlands, Texas
Director of Data Technology
Data Technology Manager
Field Engineer/Operations Data Analyst
Key Achievements:
- Built, mentored, and led a high-performing team of data scientists and managers
- Spearheaded reorganization of Digital Technology department
- Established comprehensive generative AI strategy with LLM deployment
- Led expansion of machine learning program for predictive models
- Developed enterprise-wide data architecture
- Achieved $5M reduction in pump consumable costs
- Secured over $15M in vendor contract savings
- Designed and implemented custom CMMS system
- Achieved 85% predictive accuracy for pump failures with potential to exceed 95%
Keane Group
Houston, Texas
Field Hydraulic Fracturing Engineer
Key Achievements:
- Led design and optimization of fracturing treatment schedules
- Implemented new software packages including FracPro AI and Axiom
- Supported digital transformation and operational excellence initiatives
CNH Industrial
New Holland, Pennsylvania
Field Test Engineer II – Crop Harvesting Equipment
Key Achievements:
- Validated mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and software systems
- Identified cost-efficient materials and supply chain improvements
- Led field testing programs for agricultural equipment optimization
Chevron, U.S.A.
Houston, Texas
Drilling Engineer / Drill Site Rep.
Key Achievements:
- Developed data-driven procedures saving $250,000 per subsea BOP test
- Managed maintenance and upgrades on deep-water drilling equipment
- Led operational teams to deliver wells safely, on time, and under budget
Career Progression
Technical Skills
Comprehensive expertise across data science, AI/ML, and enterprise technology platforms
Programming Languages
Data & Cloud Platforms
AI & Machine Learning
Business Analytics
Data Infrastructure
Frameworks & Tools
Education
Bachelor of Science
Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering
The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
Certifications
Data Science with SQL and Tableau
Cornell University • 2022
Integrated Leadership: Leading With Influence, Agility, and Accountability
Energy Workforce & Technology Council • Recent
Executive Leadership: Cultivating High-Performing Teams and Cultures
Energy Workforce & Technology Council • Recent
Core Competencies
Development Portfolio
Explore my full-stack development projects showcasing expertise in web applications, data visualization, industrial automation, and collaborative platforms with live deployments.
Custom Wishlist WebsiteLive Demo
A collaborative web platform for friends and families to create, share, and manage wishlists for special occasions
Technologies
Key Features
Technical Highlights
Expense Management System
A Flask-based web application for managing expenses, tracking budgets, and visualizing financial data
Technologies
Key Features
Technical Highlights
Match Scheduler Application
A Python-based desktop application for managing shooting match schedules and work periods
Technologies
Key Features
Technical Highlights
birdsongFork
A Python interface to Canary Lab's historian for industrial data management
Forked from CorsoSource/birdsong
Technologies
Key Features
Technical Highlights
Additional Projects
Nicholas has developed numerous proprietary solutions and enterprise applications throughout his career. Additional project details and private repository access can be provided upon request for qualified opportunities.
Patents & Innovation
Pioneering predictive maintenance technology through innovative AI/ML solutions
4 Patents
In predictive maintenance technology
85%+ Accuracy
Predictive maintenance success rate
Collaborative Innovation
Multi-disciplinary patent development
Predictive Block Maintenance
US Patent 12189384
Filing Information
Filed: 2022-08-19
Assignee: Typhon Technology Solutions (U.S.), LLC
Inventors
Abstract
Well completion design data for completing plural stages of a well completion operation is accessed. Predicted component life intervals for each of a plurality of components of a frac fleet are accessed. Remaining component life intervals for each of the plurality of components of the frac fleet are determined based on the predicted component life intervals. A continuous completion event for the well completion operation is set based on the remaining component life intervals for each of the plurality of components.
Business Impact
Enables predictive maintenance scheduling for hydraulic fracturing equipment, reducing downtime and operational costs.
Predicting Frac Pump Component Life Interval
US Patent Application 20240060484
Filing Information
Filed: 2022-08-19
Assignee: Pending
Inventors
Abstract
Pump maintenance data associated with each of plural components of each of plural frac pumps of each of plural frac pump transports of a frac fleet is accessed. The pump maintenance data includes usage data of plural well completion operations performed by the frac fleet. The usage data indicates actual component life intervals of each of the plural components and corresponding operating conditions.
Business Impact
Provides machine learning-based prediction of component failure intervals, enabling proactive maintenance strategies.
Predictive Block Maintenance (Continuation)
US Patent Application 20240061417
Filing Information
Filed: 2022-08-19
Assignee: Pending
Inventors
Abstract
Well completion design data for completing plural stages of a well completion operation is accessed. Predicted component life intervals for each of a plurality of components of a frac fleet are accessed. Remaining component life intervals for each of the plurality of components of the frac fleet are determined based on the predicted component life intervals.
Business Impact
Extends predictive maintenance capabilities with enhanced scheduling algorithms for continuous operations.
Predictive Block Maintenance (Latest)
US Patent Application 20250138526
Filing Information
Filed: 2024-12-31
Assignee: Pending
Inventors
Abstract
Well completion design data for completing plural stages of a well completion operation is accessed. Predicted component life intervals for each of a plurality of components of a frac fleet are accessed. Remaining component life intervals for each of the plurality of components of the frac fleet are determined based on the predicted component life intervals.
Business Impact
Latest iteration incorporating advanced AI/ML algorithms for enhanced predictive accuracy and operational efficiency.
Innovation Impact
Technology Leadership
Led the development of cutting-edge predictive maintenance algorithms that have achieved 85% accuracy rates with potential to exceed 95%. These innovations have directly contributed to millions in cost savings and operational efficiency improvements across the energy sector.
Industry Recognition
Patent portfolio demonstrates deep expertise in AI/ML applications for industrial equipment, positioning Nicholas as a thought leader in predictive maintenance technology. Featured in industry publications and speaking engagements on the future of data-driven operations.
Get In Touch
Ready to discuss how data technology and AI can transform your organization? Let's connect and explore opportunities for collaboration.
Contact Information
Why Connect?
- 12+ years of progressive leadership in data technology
- Proven track record of $20M+ in cost savings and efficiency gains
- Patent holder in predictive maintenance and AI/ML technologies
- Expert in building and scaling high-performing data science teams
- Thought leader in generative AI and digital transformation