If I was an Operator looking for a Contractor to drill my wells who would I choose, today? TO. Why? Because, the message must have gotten through by now.[/QUOTE]
It has not gotten through. Experienced mechanics and other key personnel are replaced by lower paid less qualified individuals every day in the name of cost cutting. This is especially true in operations outside the US in third world countries. Rig owners know that this is short sighted management but bonuses are paid for cost savings not safety and efficiency.
Like the banking industry the oil industry is all about the short term profits not the long term viability.