Hi!

My name is Jessica Rich. I am a doctoral candidate in the Department of Communication Studies at the University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill. As part of my dissertation project, I am looking at how shale gas development is transforming communities and employment across the United States. One of my main goals is to increase opportunities for individuals to participate in local democratic and decision-making processes.

I am interested in learning about how people talk about their work, and about the environments in which they work. I am looking for individuals currently or formerly employed by shale gas industries and/or whose work or training has been impacted by shale gas drilling.

If you would like to take part in this study, you’ll be asked to participate in a one-on-one interview that lasts approximately one hour. You will be asked questions about your work, as well as your opinion about the impact of shale gas development on local communities. With your consent, the interview will take place by phone or in person and may be audio-recorded. Participants must be at least 18 years of age.

Each person brings a unique perspective of how shale gas development is changing work, employment, and communities. By sharing your experience, you will help to improve opportunities for a wide range of individuals and organizations to participate in local decision-making processes.

For more information, or if you or someone you know would like to participate in this study, please feel free to contact me by email at jlrich@email.unc.edu.

Thanks for your interest!