Training program for O&G and Indigenous workers focuses on transitioning inactive sites to renewable energy projects
By KENDALL KING, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on May 19, 2022.
kking@medicinehatnews.com Fossil fuel industry and Indigenous workers in southeast Alberta are being invited to take part in the RenuWell Workforce Training Program, offered in partnership by Medicine Hat College and Canadian non-profit Iron and Earth. The training program, which runs from June 20-27, explores ways in which inactive oil and gas sites can be transformed into renewable energy projects. The program, which can accommodate 15 participants, focuses on cross-training individuals already working in the oil and gas industry. Participants will complete in-class learning and simulations, as well as visit regional RenuWell Project sites. “There’s a lot of lease sites, abandoned oil fields or oil wells in farmers’ fields, where oil companies went bankrupt or stopped producing,” Wesley Paterson, MHC corporate training officer, told the News. “The RenuWell program has identified a lot of potential sites that could be reclaimed and then re-adapted with solar systems.” As well as introducing more renewable energy options in southeast Alberta, Paterson believes the training will provide additional job stability to participants. “There’s instability with work sometimes,” said Paterson. “Oil and gas is good right now. But we’ve seen it go up and then fall. So some people think when things are good, ‘It’s just gonna keep going this way forever.’ And that reality is not true. (But) solar, wind, a lot of these projects have a bit more stability. “These are the kind of things, especially in our area and region, where I see in the next decade, we’ll be moving towards,” said Paterson. “So, Iron and Earth is looking at, how are we going to transition a workforce, if the jobs are going to be in these new industries?” Applications for the program close May 30. Anyone interested in participating in the program must apply online at ironandearth.org. The program begins June 20, however those chosen to participate may also take part in safety tickets and certifications from June 9-17. 9-8
