Starting out in oil and gas

[timdiesel]

Been curious about breaking into the oil and natural gas industry, but the more I look into it, the more I realize there's no single door to walk through because I see some people land jobs through trade schools and apprenticeships, others come in with engineering or geology degrees, and then there are people who just happened to know the right person at the right time. The range of roles is huge and so are the differences in training and experience needed. But what is the best starting point? should I be focusing on getting specific certifications, building relevant trade skills, or aiming for an entry level position and working my way up?

Those already in the field, how did you get your start, and if you could go back, would you do it the same way?

 

[Aldwin101]

The most direct way to get into the oil and gas industry is to start with an entry-level position. While what you said about this industry having no single door to walk into, this is still the path many people take, as it doesn't require a specific degree or years of prior experience. Jobs like a roughneck on a drilling rig, a frac hand, or a lease operator are common starting points. These roles are physically demanding, but they provide hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the industry from the ground up.

For certifications, read up about Class A CDL and OSHA 10 or 30. While a four-year degree in engineering or geology is necessary for specific roles, don't feel pressured to take that route unless you're aiming for a specialized career. Instead, focus on building relevant trade skills and a strong work ethic, and figure out what specific area of the industry you want to grow in.