Process Technology - Petroleum Specialty

Associate of Applied Science Degree. Certificate.

What is Process Technology-Petroleum Specialty?

The ability to understand, operate, shut down, analyze and troubleshoot petroleum-related processes.  Petroleum process technicians are key to the production, operation, and distribution of petroleum products in East Texas and in other petroleum-producing parts of the U.S. This program includes the opportunity for practical experiences. This program is recognized by the Texas Workforce Investment Council (TWIC).

What type of program does Kilgore College offer?

Kilgore College offers a two-year Associate in Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.) in process/petroleum technology. The program prepares graduates to maintain safe and environmentally sound work practices, and perform duties in a cost-effective manner in support of petroleum industry business goals.  Students learn how to to operate plants and associated piping systems for the petroleum industry. 

The program also readies graduates to demonstrate technical knowledge, skills and abilities in the following areas:

  • Computer applications
  • Instrumentation systems
  • Pipeline operations
  • Pipeline production
  • Process systems
  • Quality and safety
  • Refining and petrochemical industry equipment 

Course information:

Career Tree - PETROLEUM

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Process Technology - Petroleum Specialty

Advantages of Petroleum Specialty at KC
  • Scholarships are available
  • Financial assistance for those who qualify
  • Low tuition and fees
  • Job placement service
  • Convenient location
  • Instructors with practical experience
  • Small classes
  • Hands-on training
Job Opportunities and Potential Entry-Level Salaries

Petroleum process technicians are key to the production, operation, and distribution of petroleum products in East Texas and in other petroleum-producing parts of the U.S. Members of the petroleum industry have partnered with Kilgore College to design this Process/Petroleum Speciality degree. Demand for petroleum process technicians provides an excellent rate of placement for graduates of the degree. Starting wages for this degree range between $40,000 to $42,000 annually with excellent benefits.

Definition of Process Engineering

Process Engineering is an environment of teams of people responsible for planning, analyzing, and controlling the production of products from the acquisition of raw materials through the production and distribution of products to customers in a variety of process industries. These industries include, but are not limited to, chemical, food and beverage, oil exploration and production, pharmaceuticals, power generation, pulp and paper, refining and wastewater treatment.

Characteristics of a Good Process Technician

Process petroleum technicians and operators must be self motivated, make good economic decisions,and possess a basic understanding of mechanical systems. They should have a good driving record, communication and computer skills and the ability to use instruments/tools related to the industry. Technicians must be able to work outdoors, perform tasks requiring good mental and physical aptitude, understand regulations pertaining to the industry, and be part of emergency response efforts should the need arise.

Industries that Utilize Process Technology
  • Chemical manufacturing
  • Food and beverage
  • Mining
  • Oil and gas exploration, production, transportation, and refining
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Power generation
  • Pulp and paper
  • Water and waste water treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of salary can graduates expect?

Employees in the process industry are generally rewarded for job excellence through salary increases and promotions. Your financial package usually includes health and dental insurance, profit sharing and retirement plans. The national average entry-level salary is $40,000-plus annually, according to the Center for the Advancement of Process Technology.

What do graduates of the program do?

A process technician monitors and controls mechanical, physical and chemical changes throughout many processes to produce a final product made from raw materials. Duties include maintaining a safe work environment, controlling, monitoring and troubleshooting equipment in processes, and analyzing, maintaining and communicating data obtained through the use of technology.

How long does it take to complete the program?

The program will take two years to obtain an Associate's Degree.

What is the job outlook for graduates?

Excellent. Process technicians will be in demand more than ever in the coming years. A shortage of process technicians currently exists within the chemical, oil and gas exploration and production and power generation industries and future projections do not offer relief. Compounding the problem is the abnormally high number of retirements projected over the next ten years.

For information about Process Technology - Petroleum Specialty:

Tracy Atkins
Instructor, Process Technology
Phone:
(903) 983-8136
Office:
Whitten Applied Tech. Center (WHITN), 118
tatkins@kilgore.edu
Mary Martin
Professional Support Assistant
Public Services & Industrial Technologies
Phone:
(903) 983-8131
Office:
Whitten Applied Tech. Center (WHITN), 114
mmartin@kilgore.edu
Michael Willbanks
Lead
Process Technology
Phone:
(903) 988-7414
Office:
Whitten Applied Tech. Center (WHITN), 112
mwillbanks@kilgore.edu

Public Services & Industrial Technologies