Citizenship certificate following the ceremony at Perth City Chambers
From Colombia To Scotland
Merlin is celebrating a special milestone for Senior Drilling Engineer Santiago “Santi” López, who has officially received his British citizenship following a ceremony at Perth City Chambers.
Originally from Colombia, Santi came to Scotland to complete his MSc in Drilling and Well Engineering at Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen before joining Merlin in 2019. Seven years later, he has progressed to Senior Drilling Engineer and is a highly valued member of the Merlin team.
With more than a decade of experience in drilling and completions, Santi supports projects for clients around the world, while also helping develop opportunities across South America.
Fluent in English and Spanish, he plays an important role in expanding Merlin’s Spanish-language capabilities, including helping to develop and deliver the company’s Complex Drilling training course in Spanish.
His contribution extends well beyond engineering. Santi is a strong advocate for Merlin, actively supporting business development and market engagement and is always willing to get involved wherever he can add value.
Known throughout the company for his warm, upbeat personality, Santi has embraced life in Scotland while retaining his Colombian roots – including his love of football, cycling, Colombian music, and particularly the Vallenato and Salsa.
The Merlin team helped Santi celebrate the milestone – with a suitably Scottish send-off
A New Chapter, with Scotland Still Close to Heart
The milestone comes as Santi begins another exciting chapter, returning to Colombia to continue his career with Merlin, focused on growing the company’s presence and business development opportunities across South America.
Speaking to colleagues following his citizenship ceremony, Santi said: “My time in Scotland has been amazing, and the team has been such a special part of my life over the past seven years. I feel incredibly lucky to have you all as friends and colleagues.”
Santi will remain closely connected to the Scotland team, returning to the Merlin office regularly throughout the year.
Santi fully embracing the occasion
Left to right, Pam Conway, Alan Conway, Santiago Lopez, Neil Armstrong, who witnessed the Ceremony
