robotics supports more efficient workplace

As a former U.S. Army combat engineer who once defused deadly explosives—now a job often handled by robots—Trey Caylor understands the critical role that robotics can play in keeping people safe.

And the benefits extend far beyond the battlefield. As a former robotics program manager at Chevron’s Technical Center, Caylor has seen how these technologies can also enhance safety and efficiency across Chevron’s operations.

“Safety and innovation go hand in hand,” Caylor said. “Robotics is helping us achieve both.”

Chevron is doing robotics work in areas such as tanks and drones.

The first component encompasses the cleaning and inspecting of Chevron’s large storage tanks. When people can send robots to do these tasks, it prevents them from having to enter enclosed spaces themselves, which can be dangerous. It also saves Chevron time and money.

Using robots for tank inspections has saved Chevron more than $25 million and approximately 43,000 working hours since 2024.

“This time savings gives employees an opportunity to focus on other areas that they might find more fulfilling,” Caylor said.

And using robots to clean tanks has saved the company more than $6 million since 2024, while cutting approximately 28,000 working hours.

Chevron uses drones for a variety of tasks, including performing visual and thermal inspections, and detecting emissions.

The company is working to develop its drone-in-a-box system. It aims to use autonomous drones to perform remote inspections, reducing the need for worker-led field visits.

When the robotics program was launched approximately two-and-a-half years ago, Caylor was tapped to help lead it. He brought with him a wealth of experience from his 12-year career within Chevron and the skills he had gained during his time in the military.

Caylor joined the armed forces at age 17, in part to earn money for college, as he hoped to save enough to cover the cost of earning a civil engineering degree. He didn’t know it at the time, but the years he spent in the U.S. Army would provide a valuable education of their own.

Whether he was clearing minefields in Kosovo or removing explosive devices from roadsides in Iraq, Caylor learned how to work under a nearly unimaginable level of pressure.

“When you’re holding a live mine in your hand, it puts stress into a different perspective,” Caylor said.

His time in the military also helped him recognize the importance of safety in the workplace.

Caylor stepped down from his role as robotics program manager in October 2025 after being reassigned to a project manager role within Chevron Angola. He said he’s looking forward to the new challenge.

Brandon Dutreix, president of Chevron’s Veteran Employee Network, said veterans like Caylor bring a lot to the table.

“Veterans arrive at Chevron with a unique blend of discipline, mission focus and adaptability,” Dutreix said. “These qualities, forged in the crucible of service, make them natural catalysts for leadership. Whether they served in logistics, engineering, intelligence or combat operations, veterans bring a results-driven approach that aligns seamlessly with Chevron’s values.”