Education, Training & Safety
With just a high school education, you can start working in entry-level jobs in the oil and gas industry. Each job and every company will have their own specific requirements, but basic qualifications usually include:
- High school education
- Class 3 or Class 1 clean drivers' licence (in addition to Class 5)
- Physical fitness
Some basic skills for success in the oil and gas industry are:
- Reading and writing skills
- Communication skills
- Problems solving and decision making skills
- Planning and organizational skills
- Computer literacy
- Use of documentation skills (plans, directions, etc)
- Math and science skills
- Mechanical aptitude
Some common industry values for success are:
- Motivation to succeed
- Positive attitude
- Teamwork
- Desire to learn and progress
- Good work ethic
Professional certifications, college diplomas and university degrees can take you far in the oil and gas industry. Math, science and computer courses are particularly valuable in most job sectors, as much of the equipment used in the field requires you to deal with instrumentation, computers and chemicals.
You can gain new skills and further your career by taking advantage of some of the many public and private educational and training opportunities that are available.
Education Options
Many companies provide tuition reimbursement or scholarships to encourage you to further your education. Pursuing lifelong learning is a great way to stay on top of this fast-paced industry.
Skills Training
Learning new skills is a great way to advance your career and increase your earning potential. There are many programs and certifications - like the Petroleum Competency Program - that teach you the latest skills and techniques that will make you even more valuable to an employer.
Safety Programs
Your safety is, of course, a top priority at any company. Most workplaces provide their own safety training for employees - training that is specifically tailored to the particular job, site and company - but there are also organizations and formal programs to help you increase your safety knowledge and competence.
