Petroleum Technicians

Summer and other temporary jobs on drilling and production crews are excellent ways of finding out about this field. Temporary work can provide knowledge of oil field operations, equipment maintenance, safety, and other aspects of the work. You may also want to consider entering a two-year training program in petroleum technology to learn about the field.

Participate in information interviews with petroleum technicians to learn more about the field. In such an interview—which can be conducted in-person, on the phone, or through video-conferencing technology—you will get the opportunity to ask technicians about their work environment, likes and dislikes about their careers, educational training, and other topics that will help you to learn more about the field. Ask your school counselor or a teacher to help you set up information interviews.