“Oklahoma has the best CareerTech system in the nation, and we should be very proud of that. Our partnership with Francis Tuttle is a great example of how private industry and education can work together.” – Mindy Stitt, Executive Director of OERB
In the mid-2000s, the oil and gas industry in Oklahoma experienced a growth spurt. This led to a competitive environment where companies were hiring from each other because there was a shortage of talent.
The Oklahoma Energy Resources Board (OERB) responded by collaborating with Francis Tuttle Technology Center’s Workforce and Economic Development team to establish the PetroTech Technical Training Program. The first PetroTech class started in January 2007 in Oklahoma City. In 2009, OERB began offering the program through Tulsa Technology Center as well.
The program is geared toward those who are either entering the oil and gas industry or who are looking to transfer to a different area of the industry. Through PetroTech, students earn Data Analyst, Engineering, Geology, or Land Tech Certifications.
The idea started with then-OERB board member, Ronnie Irani. He reached out to Francis Tuttle to ask about a partnership, and the organizations started creating the classes and selecting instructors.
“Ronnie’s vision in the beginning was that a company would look at a resume and see they have the OERB PetroTech Certification and know they were going to be a great candidate,” said Mindy Stitt, Executive Director of OERB. “I think that is what happened is companies do recognize this as a good training tool and something that is very beneficial.”
The partnership between Francis Tuttle and OERB demonstrates how technology centers and local organizations can collaborate to strengthen Oklahoma’s workforce.
“It’s been our pleasure to support OERB and the oil and gas industry as a whole by being part of the PetroTech program,” said Kirsten Lindsay, Director of Workforce and Economic Development for Francis Tuttle. “It’s a partnership that goes back nearly two decades and is a perfect example of industry leveraging the training resources that CareerTech offers.”
Tim Munson was involved in the initial planning and has taught the program’s first course, Intro to Oil and Gas, since the program began. According to Munson, 26 cohorts have completed the intro class, representing about 775 students.
“The loop can be closed relatively quickly between entry into the program and actually starting a new career,” said Munson, who is the Exploration Manager at Spartan Resources, LLC. “It’s been gratifying as an instructor to see students benefit from the program, and the reason I keep doing it is I enjoy teaching and helping people improve themselves and their skillset.”
The program takes about 10 to 12 months to complete, with classes held in the evenings and some offered online. Students also have the option to register for individual classes instead of completing a certification.
Additionally, the classes are a networking opportunity for students as the instructors all have significant industry experience.
“In the first class, I always tell students you should come to class as though you’re on an interview because you never know which one of your instructors or your fellow classmates is going to make a connection that will lead to your next job or promotion,” Munson explained.
OERB is constantly trying to improve the PetroTech Program, reviewing and changing classes to match need. For example, the organization recently implemented advanced classes to provide additional training in areas where students expressed a need. They’ve also added an online instructor-led data analytics series.
“We’re continuing to listen to the industry,” said Cheryl Standage, PetroTech Coordinator. “It started out as industry need, and we’re continuing to strive to listen to them and do what they need.”
The OERB staff and Munson said that throughout the years, they have often received positive feedback from both employers and students. Some students shared how the program changed their lives, preparing them for jobs that allowed them to better support their families.
“It’s been a good, cooperative effort on the part of Francis Tuttle and OERB that has benefited literally hundreds of people and dozens of companies,” Munson said. “It's been a really positive program.”
PetroTech’s full certification programs start each fall, and applications must be received by Aug. 1 to be considered for the upcoming session. More information about the program and individual class options can be found at www.francistuttle.edu/energy or on OERB’s website.