TRAVIS WARNER'S BACKGROUND

-- From forensic anthropology to geologic consultant -- Avid Slackliner

I wanted to be a forensic anthropologist after reading Stiff in high school.  I pursued a bachelor's degree in Forensic and Investigative Science at West Virginia University.  The Crime Scene Analysis track taught me the importance of collecting the right data the first time.  I chose to minor in Geology because I liked the outdoors.  I figured a lot of crimes must happen outdoors - think of all the geologic trace evidence!  

Raymond Murray, author of Evidence from the Earth, recommended I intern at McCrone Associates to work on forensic geology, soil analysis, and microscopy.  I learned that soils (and bones, too) consist primarily of organic material and minerals.  My geology professor, Dr. Smosna, helped me realize that the unconventional shale revolution also centered on organic material and minerals.  Instead of studying modern bones and being cross-examined in the legal system, I was soon studying ancient fossils, cross-beds, and petroleum systems.  I obtained internships at EnerVest and EQT Production, and started full-time at EQT as I was finishing a Master's thesis on microfractures in the Bakken formation.  I worked in the Reservoir Technology and Description department, utilizing the fundamentals of forensic investigation to tackle unique R&D projects that didn't necessarily have an established workflow.  I learned firsthand how to research a problem, identify assumptions, and  design experiments to provide actionable data and insight.  On the side, I also geosteered several dozen horizontal laterals.  Seven rewarding years later, business strategies changed, and EQT and I parted ways.  I started 2018 by forming a consulting business to offer my experience and expertise to help clients tackle their unique projects. 

30 microns is the thickness of a standard geologic thin section.  Thin sections are necessary to visualize the microscopic components of unconventional mudstones, and put bulk properties of interest in context.  I like the 30 Microns name for my geologic consulting business as I'd like to provide my clients with the necessary detailed insight and analysis to make informed decisions that lead to big-picture success.