Last Chance To Sign Up For Gas Job Training

There are just two openings remaining in a free three-week training class that’s getting underway soon in Port Allegany for people interested in landing jobs in the natural gas industry. Registration will be closing soon for the ShaleNet class at the Career and Technical Center (formerly vo-tech). Energy companies are looking to fill jobs with local recruits, if they have the basic qualifications. “ShaleNet is a great program,” said Dan Weaver, a representative of the Pennsylvania Independent Oil and Gas Association. “Service companies want local people because of their connection to the land.”

“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,” said a spokesman for an active oil and gas field services company servicing northcentral Pennsylvania. Virtually all of the individuals who completed the initial ShaleNet training course, sponsored by the Potter County Education Council (PCEC) and U.S. Dept. of Labor, were offered jobs in the gas industry. Those planning to register for the next round of 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, will be over a three-week period from Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. There is no tuition, but participants are responsible for pre-admission clearances, physical examinations, and drug testing. More details are available from Bob Veilleux at PCEC, telephone 814-545-1333.