EID's Shawn reports on November's Utica Shale Workforce Development Summit in Zanesville organized by former Congressman Zack Space:

"Last week, the Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies hosted a Utica Shale Workforce Development Summit to help communities prepare their workforce for the expanding oil and natural gas industry.  The Summit was organized by former Congressman Zack Space, and brought together elected officials, educational institutions, economic development specialists, county agencies and industry to craft a blueprint for collaborative-community efforts as the Utica Shale begins to expand in scope, and in opportunity.

The event, held at Ohio University’s and Zane State College’s Student Center in Zanesville, drew nearly 100 attendees, and was the first-of-its-kind planning session for the area.  It brought together leaders and experts on a variety of different facets to help provide guidance as to how best approach the new, exciting opportunities coming forward as we begin to increase the state’s shale development.  Each table was evenly divided with representatives from different backgrounds in order to best approach growing areas of interests and concerns with developing our communities and workforce.

Before each table could begin the process of identifying the best strategies for eastern Ohio to move forward, the attendees were treated with presentations from Charlie Dixon of Ohio Oil and Gas Energy and Education Program (OOGEEP), Dave Mustine of JobsOhio and David Wilhelm, founder of Ohio Appalachia Business Council.  Each presenter gave their outlook and interpretation of the importance of the Utica Shale to the region.

Charlie Dixon provided the audience with an overview of the oil and gas industry in Ohio, while detailing the impressive work the Ohio Oil and Gas Energy Education Program has done over the years in helping educate and provide expertise in developing programs that will ensure Ohioans are ready to for the new jobs created by Ohio’s oil and gas industry."

READ THE REST: http://www.eidohio.org/shale-summit/