Houston, TX |
The oil and gas industry is at a critical juncture, where innovation and skilled talent are more important than ever.
At EZOps, we recognize the need not only to stay ahead of industry trends but also to actively contribute to the growth and development of the next generation of field operators. That’s why we’re excited to announce our collaboration with Northern Lights College in Fort St. John, BC, on their new Field Operations Specialist — Hydrocarbon Resources (FOSHR) training program.
In this article, you will learn:
- The growing need for skilled workers in oil and gas
- How Northern Lights College is preparing new field operators
- How EZOps mobile oilfield management supports hands-on digital training
- What the FOSHR program offers future operators
Meeting the Growing Demand for Skilled Energy Workers
A recent World Energy Employment report from the International Energy Agency shows strong growth across the global energy workforce, with 76 million people employed in 2024 and more than 5 million new jobs created since 2019. Oil and gas remains a major contributor to this growth, yet the report warns that applied technical roles are becoming harder to fill, creating pressure on companies that rely on skilled field operators.
The supply of new qualified workers is not keeping pace with industry needs. The report notes that preventing a widening skills gap by 2030 will require a significant increase in new entrants, along with greater investment in training programs. Without this support, labor shortages could slow project development, increase costs, and create risks for energy security across the oil and gas sector.
Bridging the Skills Gap in the Oil and Gas Industry
Northern Lights College has long been a leader in providing education that aligns with industry needs, and the FOSHR program is no exception. As the oil and gas sector continues to evolve with new technologies and methods, the need for specialized training programs has never been greater.
The FOSHR program is designed to meet this demand head-on, offering a comprehensive 15-week course that combines both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience at a working oil and gas facility.
The program launched its pilot phase in Fall 2024, starting with operators from Tourmaline Oil, one of our biggest clients. The pilot paved the way for the program to open to additional participants in Spring 2025, ensuring that more individuals can gain the skills necessary to excel in the industry.
The Role of EZOps’ Technology in FOSHR
At the heart of the FOSHR program is a commitment to equipping future field operators with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly data-driven environment. That’s where EZOps and our mobile oilfield management solutions come in.
Our technology is being integrated into the data acquisition and production accounting module of the program, providing students with hands-on experience in field data logging, priority management, and compliance management. These modules are more than just technical components. They represent the future of how field operations are managed.
By learning to use EZOps technology in field operations, students will gain valuable insights into how to prioritize tasks efficiently, manage compliance with industry regulations, and make data-driven decisions that enhance operational safety and effectiveness.
Looking Ahead
We’re proud to be part of this initiative and eager to see the impact of our technology on future industry leaders. As the program grows, we’ll continue supporting Northern Lights College and the students who will shape the future of oil and gas operations.
At EZOps, we believe in education and innovation to drive the industry forward, and our collaboration with Northern Lights College reflects that commitment. Supporting the development of skilled field operators is key to strengthening the long-term success and sustainability of the industry.
Interested in Learning How EZOps Can Benefit Your Operations?
Discover how EZOps improves accuracy, safety, and workflow efficiency in the field by reviewing our platform overview. To learn more about the Field Operations Specialist — Hydrocarbon Resources (FOSHR) program, reach out to Northern Lights College directly.