Deadline Friday To Enroll For Gas Job Training

Registration time is running out for those interested in enrolling in a free training class that will provide them with the skills they need to secure a job in the natural gas industry. A spokesman for one of the most active gas field services companies in the region confirms the value of the four-week ShaleNET training class that will be held Aug. 6-24 at the former vo-tech school in Port Allegany: “A person who has taken the initiative to become familiar with the 12 skill sets that are emphasized in the ShaleNET program is going to have an obvious advantage when it comes to landing a job with us.”

Recent increases in the price of natural gas at the wellhead make it likely that energy companies who have postponed shale-gas drilling in the local area will be returning in the coming months and looking to fill jobs with local recruits — if they have the basic qualifications. “Now is the time to prepare,” the spokesman said. “Once this industry returns, the companies are prepared to ramp up very quickly and anyone who has the basic qualifications will have a big competitive edge when it comes to landing a job.”

Virtually all of the individuals who completed the initial ShaleNET training course offered through PCEC earlier this year were offered jobs in the gas industry. Those planning to register for the Aug. 6-24 training should do so immediately, since they will need to complete screening requirements that include an occupational physical examination and criminal background check.

ShaleNET is a combination of classroom and hands-on training. Topics include employability skills; basics of natural gas; rig components and electrical systems; hydraulics, pressures and forces; basic rigging; well production; basic well control; spill prevention and reporting; safety; driving; aerial work platform basics and rough-terrain forklift. Typically, those who join the gas industry in entry-level jobs are able to steadily progress to more responsible and higher-paying positions. The course, which is open to applicants from any county, is being held Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm. There is no tuition, but participants are responsible for pre-admission clearances, physical examinations, and drug testing. Registrations are still being taken through Pennsylvania CareerLink. In Potter County, the phone number is 274-9330. More details are also available from Bob Veilleux at PCEC, telephone 814-545-1333.