More Information
To learn more about Integrated Production Technologies (IPTN) program offered by Fletcher Technical Community College, please click here.

To learn more about the Petroleum Services or Safety Technology programs offered by Nicholls State University, please click here.

To learn more about the Process Technology (PTEC) programs offered by Sowela Technical Community College, please click here.

To learn more about the Electrical/Electronics Engineering Technology programs offered by Delgado Community College, please click here.

Pushing the Envelope
Today’s deepwater production facilities are not the typical rigs of the past. These state-of-the-art offshore platforms are equipped with cutting-edge technology, which makes it possible to access oil and gas in water depths of almost 7,000 feet. To meet the never-before-seen challenges in the deepwater Gulf of Mexico, the industry relies on the skill and expertise of technicians trained in production, mechanical, instrumentation, electrical and marine
crafts. That’s why many entry level positions in the industry require a two-year petro-technical degree.

Technician Career Paths
Production: Optimize oil and gas production and control environmental emissions by monitoring the plant and making the appropriate manual adjustments within the production and supporting utility systems;

Mechanical: Operate and maintain mechanical equipment – pumps, compressors, gearboxes, electric motors, pipe work and valves;

Instrumentation and Electrical (I&E): Maintain and calibrate instrumentation, control, protection and automation systems;

Electrical: Resolve electrical power generation, transformation, distribution and utilization problems; and

Marine: Provide installation support on marine aspects of a platform and maintain platform stability and environmental control through tank, ballast and deck weight management.

Consider the Benefits
Working and living offshore is a truly unique experience. Technicians work “hitches,” which typically consist of working two weeks offshore followed by two weeks off duty. Offshore facilities are equipped with all the comforts of home, including galley kitchen service, workout facilities and recreation rooms.

Technicians are paid hourly and are eligible for overtime pay. On average, a new technician can expect to make $55,000 to
$60,000 a year in the oil and gas industry.

Take the Challenge
A two-year degree from one of these institutions can give you the competitive edge you need to land a job in this dynamic, high-tech field. This degree not only provides job seekers a competitive edge and helps them make a smooth transition into the technical work environment but can help them earn $60,000 in the first year of employment. With the deepwater Gulf holding the potential of large untapped resources, the future is bright for individuals looking for challenging and rewarding offshore career opportunities.