The Collegiate Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development, in partnership with PECO and other industry counterparts, has announced the availability of a new introductory training program to develop a skilled natural gas workforce.

The Gas Distribution Pipeline Mechanic Introduction Program was developed to provide students with the fundamental skills necessary to work in the natural gas distribution industry.

The Delaware County Community College is part of the non-profit Consortium that also includes Drexel University and the community colleges in Philadelphia, Montgomery County, Bucks County, and Camden County.

“Today, the Collegiate Consortium is pleased to partner with natural gas industry leaders on providing the skill-specific training needed to ensure the flow of safe, reliable natural gas to homes and businesses,” said Dr. Jerry Parker, president of DCCC and chairman of the Consortium.

“We are proud to support the development of the curriculum,” said Mike Innocenzo, senior vice president and COO of PECO. “This program will help our industry identify qualified individuals to complete this important work to ensure safe and reliable service for our customers and provide family-sustaining jobs in our region.”

This hands-on program prepares students for entry-level employment in the natural gas industry. Students will learn how to install and maintain pipelines for natural gas distribution systems. Upon successful completion, students will receive an operator qualified (OQ) certification.

More than 600 skilled workers are expected to be needed for repair and replacement of distribution pipelines in the region over the next several years, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.