Two-day career development workshop formed connections between science education and the state’s natural gas sector
Science educators from all across West Virginia came together last week for a two-day summit that connected the field of math and science education to West Virginia’s energy industry. The participating teachers attended presentations from industry leaders, received educational resource materials that can be utilized in classroom instruction, and attended site visits to Diversified Energy and Bridge Valley Community and Technical College. Participants also heard a presentation on the future development of data centers and AI initiatives from Senator Glenn Jeffries, Chair of the WV Senate Economic Development Committee.
Throughout the workshop, teachers explored how math and science concepts are central to the work of the natural gas and oil industry, from geology to resource exploration to natural gas well design, to fuel distillation. Hands-on experiments and demonstrations will enable this curriculum to be replicated in their classrooms.
“This industry is passionate about supporting students and educators in our state, especially in the critical area of STEM education,” said GO-WV President Charlie Burd. “Workshops like this are an important part of GO-WV’s wider mission to support West Virginia workforce development. Going forward, we are excited to explore more ways that we can engage with the future of our industry and equip education systems with the tools to train our students for good-paying energy job opportunities right here in West Virginia.”
The event also highlighted West Virginia’s prominent role in powering the country and its outsized contributions to the state’s employment, economy, and tax base. West Virginia is America’s fifth-largest natural gas producer, creating a significant contribution to the nation’s total supply. Further, the energy industry makes up over 12% of total employment in the state, making school curriculums a practical way for students to get excited about the opportunities they will have to pursue sustainable careers in West Virginia’s oil and gas industry.
“The GO-WV Science Teacher Workshop is a hands-on, innovative experience for West Virginia science teachers, providing tools and insights they can bring back to their classrooms this fall. Its goal is to help educate students about West Virginia’s leadership in energy production,” said West Virginia teacher Maureen Miller, who participated in the workshop.
GO-WV is grateful for its members sponsoring the annual workshop, including Antero Resources, EQT, TC Energy, Ergon, Hope Gas, Northeast Natural Energy, and Truist.
