A Closer Look at Oil and Gas Education: Utica Shale Academy’s Visit to Ascent Resources
Utica Shale Academy students recently had an enriching opportunity to explore the real-world dynamics of oil and gas operations through field trips to two Ascent Resources facilities in Belmont County. This hands-on experience is invaluable for students eager to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications in the energy sector.
The Field Trip Experience
In October, a group comprising five students and three staff members from the Utica Shale Academy set off to visit Ascent’s Robinson PLT BL and Wise PLT BL sites. This venture provided them with first-hand exposure to essential practices in drilling and production processes. Such outings play a critical role in the educational journey, allowing students to see industry standards and technologies in action.
Learning Through Observation
The visit was not just a leisurely tour; it was carefully structured to maximize educational benefit. At the Robinson PLT BL site, students witnessed the intricacies of drilling—how teams work collaboratively, the equipment used, and the safety protocols in place. Moving to the Wise PLT BL location, they observed the production aspects, understanding how raw materials are processed and prepared for market.
Bridging Classroom Knowledge with Industry Insight
According to officials from the Utica Shale Academy, this experience significantly helped students connect classroom knowledge with hands-on industry insight. It illustrated how engineering principles, geological understanding, and safety regulations come into play during real-world operations. Students reported that seeing the equipment and methods first-hand transformed their comprehension of their studies, igniting a passion for potential careers in the energy sector.
Gratitude Towards Ascent Resources
The opportunity was made possible through the generous hospitality of Ascent Resources, which has committed to fostering educational initiatives within the community. Brent Riggle, the senior external affairs coordinator at Ascent, played a pivotal role in organizing the visit. His efforts helped facilitate meaningful exchanges between students and industry professionals, reinforcing the importance of community engagement in education.
Students’ Reflections
Participants of the trip, including students like Ashley Canann, Logan Krulik, and Isaiah Echols, expressed that they found the experience both enlightening and motivational. Engaging with industry experts allowed them to ask questions, explore their curiosity, and envision themselves in future roles within the oil and gas sector.
The Broader Impact of Industry Engagement
Such initiatives highlight the growing trend of collaboration between educational institutions and energy companies. By exposing students to hands-on experiences, these partnerships not only enhance learning but also help to cultivate the next generation of professionals equipped to tackle the challenges and innovations of the energy industry.
As a vibrant part of their local community, the Utica Shale Academy continues to empower students through structured educational programs and real-world experiences, paving the way for informed careers in sectors vital to both local and national economies.