UH Energy Debate to Focus on Future Workforce Needs

Despite Low Oil Prices, Industry Concerned About Next Generation of Workers

Recent job losses in the upstream oil and gas industry caused by lower oil prices haven’t dampened industry concerns about a looming shortage of workers, a result of baby boomer retirements and a hiring freeze during the oil bust of the 1980s.

How can they be sure future workers will have the right training and skills?

The final debate in the 2014-15 Energy Symposium Series at the University of Houston will consider that issue Tuesday, May 31.

Speakers include John Colborn, director of Skills for America’s Future at the Aspen Institute; Elaine Cullen, a consultant and former researcher with the U.S. Bureau of Mines and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Services, and U.S. Rep. Pete Olson.

The debate, which begins at 5:30 p.m. in the UH Student Center South Theater, is free and open to the public, but reservations are required. Register at www.uhenergyseries.eventbrite.com. Parking is available in the Welcome Center garage.

WHAT:           “Energy Workforce: How Do We Prepare for the Future?” final debate in the 2014-15

                        UH Energy Symposium Series.

 WHEN:            5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 31.

 WHERE:          UH Student Center South Theater, Entrance 1. Parking available across the street in the

                         Welcome Center garage.

 MEDIA:           Contact Jeannie Kever, 713-743-0778, m-713-504-3769. jekever@uh.edu.