回帖：Sorry, I disagree that is the approach for learning simulation.
Simulation, by definition, is imitation of the REAL thing
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simulation
Therefore, to be good at simulation, you must have a good understanding of the REAL things. To me, if simulation engineer is in my career plan, I would start from the field work, get my hand dirty to understand the field operations, field testings and management. Understand the theory and usage of testing equipment, keep in touch of the drilling, completion and facillities of everyday operations.Only after I master the skills of the field operations, I will pick up a good mentor, watch his/herworkflow doing simulation. I would duplicate their approach and only when I fully understand it, I will mold it to mine that incoporate my field experiences. Until I understand the purpose, procedure and goal of the study, I would not even touch a modeler/simulator.
One may argue, this will take time, yes, it is true but unless you are borned with the knowledge and experience, I really don't know how one can read a few books, take couple classes then be ready to solve the real world problem.