This five-day, 40-hour course is offered weekly at the Fred Eberle Technical Center in Buckhannon. Free courses start on Feb. 8 and will extend through the month of March.
"This is an excellent opportunity for anyone who is looking for a career in the oil and gas industry," said Paul Schreffler, Associate Vice President for Workforce and Economic Development at Pierpont. "The oil and gas industry in this region, commonly referred to as the Appalachian Basin, is actively investing in additional exploration and development of this resource. The industry needs a capable West Virginia workforce to accomplish its goals."
The oil fields are seeking quality workers to meet the industry's growing demand. General requirements for these jobs include:
- Have a strong work ethic and the ability to work as a team member.
- Have an ability to perform heavy labor in all weather conditions.
- Meet minimum age restrictions, usually age 18.
- Pass regularly administered drug testing.
- Possess a valid social security card; some require a CDL driver's license and/or a valid driver's license.
"Most jobs in the oil and gas industry offer higher than average pay and excellent benefits packages. The jobs range from well services to truck driving to basic labor-type jobs, which are often referred to as a ‘Floorhand' or ‘Roughneck.' This program focuses on the entry-level job on a drilling rig itself, the Floorhand position. Based on statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, oil well drillers command a higher income than most other blue-collar occupations," Schreffler said.
"Although working on a drilling rig can be hard work, outdoors, in all types of weather, it provides an excellent opportunity for someone who is looking for a job with a higher wage and good benefits."
Pierpont Community & Technical College is actively engaged in working with industry partners to prepare a qualified workforce. Pierpont operates the Appalachian Basin Oil and Gas Training Center at the Buckhannon site to help people learn the skills they need to gain employment and work safely in this expanding industry. This training program, approved by the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC), prepares students who want to begin a career in this nationwide industry. Knowledge of safe working practices in the oil and gas industry is a major focus of this program. Students achieve IADC RigPass and CPR/First Aid certification. Completion of an IADC RigPass accredited program confirms that personnel have met basic safety and skill requirements, irrespective of the rig location. Hands-on training on an actual drilling rig simulator is an integral part of the training program.
For additional information or to register for this free course, contact the Pierpont Community & Technical College Continuing Education Department at (304) 367-4920.
