Hess Apprenticeship Program Certified by U.S. Department of Labor

MINOT, ND -- The U.S. Department of Labor has recognized Hess Corporation with an official “Registered Apprenticeship Program” certificate, for Hess’ industry-leading Job Experience Training (JET) program. JET is an apprenticeship program that started in 2017, providing rigorous on-the-job training related to operations in the oil and gas industry, combined with class room training via Bismarck State College. Today’s recognition from the U.S. Department of Labor’s, Office of Apprenticeship, marks a milestone in workforce development as Hess’ JET program is the first registered apprenticeship program in North Dakota’s oil and gas industry.

“It’s a privilege to recognize Hess Corporation as an industry example of how to run and maintain an apprenticeship program that is truly successful. The U.S. Department of Labor works closely with a variety of businesses and we are excited to see such a large, international corporation take the initiative on developing and maintaining an essential apprenticeship program that is sure to improve workforce development in North Dakota,” said Barry Dutton, state director of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship.

“It’s an honor to have the U.S. Department of Labor recognize the Hess JET program as a leading example of an apprenticeship effort in North Dakota. The success of this program truly falls on the backs of the many Hess employees who are passionate about training local talent to stay and work here in North Dakota in the oil and gas industry,” said Brent Lohnes, Hess general manager in North Dakota.

The “Registered Apprenticeship Program” certificate will allow all JET students to earn a U.S. Department of Labor credential that formally recognizes their efforts as students and as journey-level operators. JET apprentices are compensated, while completing Hess specific training, curriculum from the nationally-recognized Bismarck State College’s National Energy Center of Excellence, and working alongside experienced Hess operators.

Hess began the JET apprenticeship with the support of multiple people and leaders passionate about building a safe and skilled workforce in North Dakota oil and gas production. Many of the apprenticeship participants are local students interested in careers within the state’s second-largest industry, oil and gas.