Energy companies provide 48% of the economic support and development across the Gulf Coast region.  This includes companies in exploration and production; oil field services; refining and chemicals; distribution and pipelines; power generation; and alternatives like wind, solar and bio-fuels.  This industry is effectively working with The WorkSource, community leaders, schools, and economic development to ensure that we have these high-demand, high-skill jobs for the future.  As the industry begins to replace the pioneering workforce and add high tech expansions many opportunities are becoming available.

There are many jobs becoming available that require various levels of training.  Learning more about these jobs and watching real people doing real jobs is just a click away. Career Voyages The Department of Labor has produced an exciting new publication for the workforce of tomorrow.  Take a look at where you could be someday. Career Voyages.

Career of the Month. – One of the most important roles in refining and petrochemical facilities is the Operator/ Process Technician.  According to the Gulf Coast Process Technology Alliance:  “As an operator/process technician, you’ll control, monitor and troubleshoot equipment. Your strong oral and written communication skills will enable you to work effectively in a team environment and update oncoming crews at shift changes, maintain data logs, prepare reports and other materials. You’ll apply your knowledge of math and science to use the latest computer systems to control multi-billion dollar plants.”  We are proud to be working with GCPTA to share more information with you.  Check the opportunities at www.gcpta.org.  If you are interested scroll down to the next section to find out how you can enroll in a program of study near you. 

Featured Career in Industry - Across the industry there are many important jobs that we will be highlighting.  This month, we are exploring the role of the Petroleum Engineer.  To learn more about this job, the Society of Petroleum Engineers has developed a very helpful website for students, teachers and parents. energy4me.

Certificates and Degrees in the Industry
This industry needs qualified, well-trained people.   If you are interested in improving your resume and marketability you may want to consider attending a developmental class, obtaining a certificate, or getting a higher level degree.  Many local companies are partnering with high schools, community colleges and universities to help you achieve your dream.  Information about available classes in your area is provided below – enroll today.

Brazoria
Chambers
Galveston
Harris
Montgomery
Matagorda
Wharton

Associations that support this industry are critical to success.  They provide industry training, lesson plans for teachers, factual information for the public, recruitment and retention programs, mentoring for new employees, data and interpretation for government review, and collaborative strategic planning forums. To learn more about them, we have provided a direct link based on their area of expertise.

We know that you want the best for the children in your lives.  This industry is supporting many national and local programs to help teachers and parents guide children into successful pathways.  To help you, we have provided direct links to those websites by category.

The industry and many of the companies support scholarship programs through recognized organizations.  A partial list is below. Most community colleges and universities can assist with further information on local and national scholarship providers.   If you are looking for additional information please reference our Financial Aid web-page.