More than 35 students participated in the third annual session
The Tom Dunn Energy Leadership Academy hosted another successful class this year. The third annual session was held July 14-16, 2015, at West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon, W.Va.
More than 35 high school students attended, representing 18 counties across the state. The Academy opened with a career panel, where several industry representatives shared information about careers in the industry and answered questions.
“We had a fantastic panel this year, “ said Dennis Xander, member of the Academy’s board of directors and president of Denex Petroleum. “I think the students obtained some valuable insight into the oil and gas industry and the multitude of careers that are available.”
Students also took field trips to industry sites, including a gas processing plant and a producing well pad.
“It’s very important to take these students into the field and show them what takes place in these facilities,” said Xander. “Having that experience is invaluable.”
The Academy concluded with an education forum and luncheon, which was attended by students and parents. Colleges, universities and technical schools from West Virginia and Ohio participated and provided information about their industry-related degree and certificate programs, check website.
“Having these institutions participate in our program was an excellent opportunity,” said David Haney, president of the Independent Oil and Gas Association of West Virginia (IOGA WV), which sponsors the Academy each year. “It’s important both students and parents know there are multiple educational paths available to obtain a well-paying job in this industry.”
All students participated free of cost and earned a certificate of completion for their efforts.
