University System Chancellor Mark Hagerott is working on ways to keep energy workers in North Dakota during a slowdown the industry.
He’s already unveiled “Bakken U” – designed as a one-stop shop for laid-off energy employees to find programs and courses at the colleges that could enhance their skills. Hagerott says he’s now working on a second phase.
"We're still working on the name," said Hagerott. "But if oil prices stay down, and there's increasing pressure on this workforce, then part two would be actually finding the resources for these students to stay."
Hagerott says that could include getting them scholarships or grants from companies, their own state government, or from mineral rights owners.
"these people drilled the holes for you, and got the oil for you," said Hagerott. "Can you fund them?"
Hagerott says this could create an "energy reserve" of students.
"The model for oilfield workers has been -- boom or bust," said Hagerott. "In North Dakota, we'd like to say, 'We want you to stay. We want you to become higher skilled, and become part of an energy reserve workforce.'"
Hagerott says that could help companies be ready for the next boom.
"Think of the cost for a company finding people, hiring them and training them," said Hagerott. "Instead, pay for their education so they can stay here."
