The collaboration between the Texas Tech Department of Petroleum Engineering and the Railroad Commission provides hands-on experience for state inspectors.
The Bob L. Herd Department of Petroleum Engineering within the Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering at Texas Tech University, and The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) are collaborating to deliver specialized workforce development training for that state’s oil and gas inspectors.
The training is being held at the petroleum engineering department’s Oilfield Technology Center, located just east of the Fiber & Biopolymer Research Institute in east Lubbock. The center is a unique, 10-acre facility designed to bridge classroom learning with real-world application.
“This partnership represents a meaningful step forward in how we connect education, industry and regulation,” said Marshall Watson, chairman of the petroleum engineering department at Texas Tech. “By providing hands-on training in a realistic environment, we’re helping inspectors build the skills they need to ensure safe and efficient energy operations across Texas.”
Texas Tech hopes this initiative marks the beginning of a long-term relationship with the RRC and other industry partners, further strengthening its role in advancing energy education and training in Texas.
“This training program further strengthens our field inspectors by providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to perform their jobs at the highest level,” said Wei Wang, Executive Director of the RRC. “Partnerships among Texas institutions are critical to advancing the work we do and serving the people of our state. We are proud to partner with Texas Tech to enhance inspector training and help ensure the continued protection of Texas’ natural resources and communities. I thank Texas Tech for their commitment to this important effort.”
The Oilfield Technology Center features a dedicated classroom, a shop equipped with oil and gas equipment cutaways and models, and outdoor training space with production facilities, a pumping unit, gas compressors and a drilling rig. This hands-on environment allows inspectors to gain practical experience in a controlled and safe setting, enhancing their ability to oversee operations across Texas.
In addition to strengthening ties with the RRC, the program will help offset operational costs of the facility while further establishing the department’s reputation as a leader in applied petroleum engineering education and training.
“Practical workforce training for the people of Texas; this is what makes Texas Tech special,” said Roland Faller, dean of the College of Engineering.