JVS students attend gas industry conference

Five Jefferson County Joint Vocational School students learned about innovations and operations in the oil and gas industry during the Eastern Gas Compression Roundtable May 12-14.

Seniors Cameron Rusnak, Marek Speece, Elijah Bright, Hayden Aggers and Charles Layman received scholarships to attend the event at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh. The students represented the school’s electrical trades, power mechanics and welding programs.

The Eastern Gas Compression Roundtable is one of the nation’s leading natural gas industry conferences, bringing together professionals, educators and companies involved in gas compression and energy production. Since its founding in 1973, the conference has provided educational opportunities, technical training and networking experiences for those working in the natural gas and oil industries across the country.

JVS Career/Workforce Specialist Carina Aulicino said the students interacted with industry leaders and representatives from oil and gas companies across the country. They also participated in specialized classes and earned certification in introduction to compressor stations.

“This was our second year,” Aulicino said. “It’s primarily oil and gas representatives who come to the convention, and there are educational courses for everyone who attends. They learn about new products and advances in the field and get to network with gas and oil leaders.”

In addition to the conference, the students received free tickets to watch the Pittsburgh Pirates play the Colorado Rockies at PNC Park. Aulicino said she was grateful to Eastern Gas Compression Roundtable Executive Director Joyce Perhac and board member Robert Rafalko for providing the scholarships, saying the opportunity gave students a rare look into the industry.

“The Jefferson County JVS is especially proud of the distinction these students have earned. They are believed to be the only high school students ever invited to participate in the EGCR event,” Aulicino said. “The organizers recognize them for their advanced technical knowledge, professionalism, and strong educational foundation developed through their career-technical labs.”

She said the experience provided insight into career opportunities in the energy industry while helping students build connections with potential employers and industry leaders.

“The JVS continues to provide students with unique opportunities that prepare them for successful careers through hands-on training, industry certifications, and partnerships with businesses and organizations across the region and nation,” Aulicino said.