Time Running Out For Natural Gas Job Training

Potter County Education Council (PCEC) has announced that a limited number of openings remain for a free training class that will provide individuals with the skills they need to secure a job in the natural gas industry. 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,” according to a spokesman for the Coudersport-based Natural Gas Resource Center. “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. The skills will also qualify an individual for employment with companies outside of the local area.”

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. The next program runs from Aug. 6-24. Those planning to register 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 at PCEC’s Port Allegany location. 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.