10th Anniversary of OERB’s PetroTech Program

The 10th anniversary of the Oklahoma Energy Resources Board’s PetroTech Program is being served.

It’s a program that focuses on technical training for those interested in a career in Oklahoma’s oil and natural gas industry.

Developed in 2007, the program is through the collaboration of Francis Tuttle Technology Center in Oklahoma City and Tulsa Tech.

Nearly 550 students have gone through the program in the past 10 years, earning certifications which help qualify them for positions as geological, engineering or land technicians.

“The PetroTech program invited expert instructors to teach in their respective disciplines,” explained Jordan Jenkinson, a 2016 graduate and Geology Tech at SeaMount Exploration. “There was a lively atmosphere of class discussion and practical applications which prepared me to enter confidently as a Geotech.”

Others who were already employed in the oil and gas industry took advantage of an opportunity to develop their skills. Adrian Talley, a 2016 graduate and title Examiner at Vernon L. Smith and Associates, Inc. is one of them.

“Because of the program, I have sharpened my skills in the programs I use every day and have broadened my skills to include proficiency in many standard programs used in other parts of the industry.”

The OERB indicated that at least 40 Oklahoma companies have hired PetroTech graduates.