The Tom Dunn Energy Leadership Academy hosted its fifth session July 10-12, 2018, at West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) in Buckhannon, W.Va. Nearly 40 West Virginia high school sophomores, juniors and seniors participated.
The Academy, sponsored by the Independent Oil and Gas Association of West Virginia (IOGAWV), is a three-day program that provides students with an in-depth look at West Virginia’s oil and natural gas industry. During their time at the Academy, students participated in a variety of activities inside and outside the classroom.
Day one began with an overview presentation from Chad Perkins, vice president of operations at Greylock Energy, followed by the indsutry career panel. The panel included industry professionals representing a wide range of career options – from geologists to landmen to engineers.
“The morning presentation and career panel are integral parts of the program,” Dennis Xander, member of the Academy’s board of directors, said. “This is an opportunity for students to hear directly from professionals about their careers and the many options available.”
The second day included a leadership presentation, given by Kate Reed with Leadership West Virginia, and a field trip. This year, students visited a drilling pad and production site, the MarkWest Sherwood Plant and the Antero Clearwater Facility.
“The field trip shows students how this industry operates in the real world,” Xander said. “It’s such a valuable experience, and we were very excited to have the opportunity to show students these amazing facilities.”
The Academy concluded with a college fair and luncheon, where representatives from academic and technical institutions provided information about their degree and certificate programs. During the luncheon, students received certificates of completion for their efforts.
To learn more about the Tom Dunn Energy Leadership Academy, visit www.TomDunnAcademy.org. Be sure to like and follow the Tom Dunn Energy Leadership Academy on Facebook and Twitter.
