Industry, education merge at pipeline training center

Submitted by Michelle Renfrew
Phone: 907-455-2833
01/15/10

Students enrolled in the UAF Tanana Valley Campus process technology program will now be taking classes at the Fairbanks Pipeline Training Center. The new training facility, located off Van Horn Road, is a public/private partnership that prepares Alaskans for work in the oil, gas and construction industries.

"We appreciate the support and encouragement provided by Jim Sampson of the Fairbanks Pipeline Training Center Trust and Randy Cheap of Alaska Works Partnership in making this new arrangement a reality," said TVC director Rick Caulfield.

The university is leasing approximately 6,500 square feet of the new facility, allowing TVC to expand its process technology and safety programs. The programs, led by assistant professor Brian Ellingson, prepare students for work in oil and gas production and refining, mining, utilities and construction.

TVC’s affiliation with the Fairbanks Pipeline Training Center addresses a critical shortage of space for training in two high-growth, high-demand career fields. The program’s proximity to industry and labor partners will also help ensure the programs continue to meet local and statewide employer needs.

"This new location will enable us to continue developing our process technology and safety programs to the highest standards nationally and across the country," said Caulfield.

An open house is scheduled for Jan. 19 from 5 - 6:30 p.m. in the TVC portion of the facility at 3600 Cartwright Ct. off of Van Horn Road.

CONTACT: Richard Caulfield, UAF Tanana Valley Campus director, at 907-455-2850 or racaulfield@alaska.edu or Michelle Renfrew, TVC marketing and community relations manager, at 907-455-2833 or mmrenfrew@alaska.edu.

MMR/1-15-10/123-10