OKLAHOMA CITY - (Oct. 13, 2023) The fourth annual Oklahoma Careers in Energy Week is scheduled for Oct. 16-20. The Oklahoma Energy Workforce Consortium is celebrating the week by promoting the benefits of pursuing careers in the energy industry.
The state’s oil and natural gas industry supported 198,965 jobs in 2022 and contributed $64.9 billion to the state economy, according to a study released by the Oklahoma Energy Resources Board. Oklahoma is the nation’s third-largest producer of wind power, sixth-largest producer of crude oil, fifth-largest producer of natural gas and home to the world’s largest oil storage site. In addition, Oklahoma produces almost three times more energy than it consumes.
Gov. Kevin Stitt issued a proclamation recognizing the state’s energy industry and the opportunities it creates for the state.
“Oklahoma’s all-of-the-above energy strategy makes us a national leader in oil, natural gas and wind production, which leads to a wide range of career opportunities for Oklahomans who are preparing to enter the job market,” Stitt said. “During Careers in Energy Week, we celebrate those who work behind the scenes in Oklahoma’s energy industry and recognize all they do to keep our lights on, our homes comfortable, our cars running and our economy growing.”
OEWC was established in 2019 to help address a looming labor shortage for the nation’s energy industry.
In addition to industry leaders, the consortium includes leaders from Oklahoma CareerTech, K-12 education, higher education and government. The consortium is focused on creating a pipeline of talented, diverse individuals to meet future needs within the state’s energy sector.
“The partnership between the energy industry and CareerTech helps us provide meaningful and tailored energy education programs to more Oklahomans, increasing their chances of securing a rewarding career and improving their earnings potential,” said CareerTech State Director Brent Haken. “In response to the industry’s employment needs, there has been a heightened focus on upskilling and developing transferable skills to fill the skills gap.”
Getting young Oklahomans excited about careers in energy is a top priority of the consortium because developing future engineers, technicians, chemists, construction managers and many other important positions are key to sustaining the industry’s momentum.
“The energy needs of our customers are changing rapidly as more of the everyday items we all use are being electrified and connected to the grid. This dynamic landscape is creating exciting new career opportunities for the next generation of leaders in our industry,” said Sean Trauschke, chairman, president and CEO of OGE Energy Corp. “We know our customers depend on us to provide safe, reliable electricity to power their homes and businesses. That’s why we are excited to partner with others in our industry, educators and state and local officials to invest in the next generation of leaders who will help us make a difference in the communities we call home and create a sustainable future for the energy industry for years to come.”
STEM curriculum plays a pivotal role in energy occupations, and many schools are implementing more programs as a pipeline for similar jobs. STEM education opens doors to many different industries and provides tools and skills for future generations to apply to occupations like energy.
“The energy industry is always evolving, and there’s a continual need for a workforce that is ready to serve our customers and power a brighter future for all Oklahomans,” said PSO President and Chief Operating Officer Leigh Anne Strahler. “From lineworkers, power plant operators and electricians to engineers, accountants and analysts – there’s a place for everyone in the energy industry.”
As part of Careers in Energy Week, a live online chat with industry professionals will be available to students and potential workers each day at GetIntoEnergy.org from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information about careers in energy and the Oklahoma Energy Workforce Consortium, visit oklahoma.getintoenergy.com.
About Oklahoma Energy Workforce Consortium
Oklahoma Energy Workforce Consortium is a partnership among Oklahoma energy companies and organizations with a mission to raise awareness about the energy industry and career pathways available to Oklahoma students. The consortium represents energy industry, education, government and community leaders united to build a talent pipeline for Oklahoma’s energy sector. The full list of consortium members can be viewed at oklahoma.getintoenergy.com.
