LoginThe energy sector continues to thrive in the U.S., with green, solar, and oil and gas companies increasing production and hiring new employees at the beginning of 2014. As this industry grows more influential and continues to provide jobs for thousands of individuals, oil and gas remains an important player in the job market.
Individuals looking to work in this sector have many ways to get involved, but first, they should educate themselves about the industry and the substantial impact it has on the U.S. economy.
White House acknowledges importance of oil and gas
The White House recently released "The All-Of-The-Above Energy Strategy As A Path To Sustainable Economic Growth" report, which details all the efforts the government has made in this industry since President Barack Obama took office in 2009. The report chronicles how influential this industry has been in a variety of areas, including bolstering national security and providing a strong framework on which the economy can continue to grow.
Additionally, the report lists ways in which the energy sector can move toward adopting more environmentally sustainable practices, including a push to develop processes that will emit zero-carbon emissions. As the government continues to work toward these goals, the industry will hire more highly skilled workers to develop new plans and meet needs.
Shale supply accounts for 450,000 jobs
One of the strongest subsections of this industry is shale energy, which accounts for a large portion of energy production in the U.S. The Energy Equipment and Infrastructure Alliance recently told Congress that the shale gas sector was responsible for creating more than 450,000 jobs within the past 10 years – a number that is projected to increase by an additional 300,000 positions by 2025. Part of the reason shale production accounts for such a high number of workers in the energy sector is because employees in this group work in a variety of trades, including manufacturing, services, construction, logistics and management.
Seeking employment in this industry
Workers looking to break into the oil and gas energy industry should first choose an area of expertise and spend several years developing their craft, according to David Vaucher, director at IHS CERA. Vaucher explained to Fuel Fix that employees should set personal goals about their future, something that comes only after deciding which position they want and researching how to get ahead in that specific field. From there, individuals should seek mentors and – if necessary – additional certifications to help bolster their expertise.