API 'SkillsReady' Program Prepares Next Generation of Natural Gas and Oil Industry Workers
Anchal Liddar
Posted May 9, 2022
A critical mission for API is to increase industry-wide focus to diversity, equity and inclusion through continuous learning, innovation and leveraging scale to drive greater impact. Developing and disseminating training programs for the industry’s workforce is core to API, and we are well-suited to help prepare the next generation of talent entering the natural gas and oil sector.
API and industry partners are proud to have launched a job readiness program to do just that – expand the industry’s skills-based education opportunities for diverse communities. SkillsReady provides participants a free admission to a four-month course that provides practical industry knowledge in energy operations that applies to all segments of the natural gas and oil industry.
The program is designed to expand the talent pipeline to communities and potential candidates who may not have access to existing programs. Graduates will obtain an API Certificate, that is recognized throughout the natural gas and oil industry. Amanda Eversole, API executive vice president and chief operating officer:
“API and the American natural gas and oil industry are committed to attracting and retaining the best and brightest minds from every corner of America. SkillsReady was created for diverse communities who might not be aware of the opportunities available within the natural gas and oil industry and will help prepare candidates for rewarding careers in major natural gas and oil organizations.”
SkillsReady was designed and is supported by several leading energy companies including Chevron, ExxonMobil, Hess, Fluor Corporation and Parker Wellbore.
Over 16 weeks, leading experts in energy operations will provide e-learning modules and in-person lectures at San Jacinto Community College in Houston. The curriculum includes an overview of the natural gas and oil supply chain, inclusive of hydrocarbon basics, segment operations, and an understanding of basic facility operations. It also covers safety procedures and concepts, critical equipment utilized at facilities, and general operational processes that are applicable to all industry segments.
There are limited seats available for the first SkillsReady class, set to start Aug. 22. The deadline for interested students to apply is June 15.
SkillsReady is the newest program of API-supported initiatives to develop the next generation of qualified and competent workers, as well as promote diversity, equity and inclusion in the natural gas and oil sector. Other programs that support this mission include the STEM Careers Coalition, API’s MSI Initiative and Opportunity@Work.
About The Author
Anchal Liddar is Senior Vice President of API’s Global Industry Services (GIS) division, which is responsible for standards setting, certification, training, publications and safety programs for industry operations. Previously she spent nine years at The Boeing Company, serving various roles in supply chain, finance, and program management. Anchal holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of California – Irvine and a M.B.A. and a Master’s of Science in Information Systems & Technology from Claremont Graduate University.