Guodong (David) Zhan, Ph. D., currently serves as a Science Consultant and Team Leader at Saudi Aramco, where leadership in developing advanced drilling technologies has garnered multiple awards, including finalist recognition for the Best Digitalization Technology of the year by the 2024 EGYPES sustainability in energy awards. Previously, Guodong held senior positions at Applied Materials and National Oilwell Varco, leading innovative R&D teams to enhance drilling efficiency and safety while achieving significant cost reductions. Academic achievements include postdoctoral research at the University of California, Davis, and contributions to various renowned institutions in Japan and the United States. Guodong Zhan holds a Ph.D. in Metallurgical Engineering and has extensive experience in materials science, particularly in the development of high-performance ceramic composites and drilling technologies.