Marietta College’s annual Energy Technical Exhibition will take place Friday, Sept. 25, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center. Organized by Marietta’s Petroleum Engineering students, the hands-on event brings together industry professionals, educators and students for a day focused on innovation, technology and career opportunities across the energy sector.
This year, several high school students from the region will attend the exhibition as well. Their inclusion in the event will give them a vital opportunity to learn more about the industry and make important connections with Marietta faculty.
Formerly known as the Earth, Energy, and Environment (E3) Student Conference, the exhibition gives students the opportunity to network with professionals working in the energy industry, learn about a range of career paths, and view industry-standard equipment through company demonstrations. Bob Chase, Professor Emeritus and Chair of the Department of Petroleum Engineering and Geology, said the event provides students with unique, one-on-one access to several companies within the industry.
“Those represented at the Exhibition typically hire individuals for a wide variety of occupations ranging from diesel mechanics to laboratory technicians to engineers. Students are encouraged to visit booths set up by the companies and submit their resumes for positions appropriate to their level of education,” Chase said.
Beyond the opportunity to engage with industry professionals, the exhibition provides Marietta students with real experience in organizing and leading a professional event. Through their work planning the exhibition, Petroleum Engineering students build leadership, communication, and career-readiness skills through a unique experiential opportunity.
Hunter Wick, a third-year petroleum engineering major, who took an active role in planning the event this year, has attended the exhibition since his freshmen year. Wick stressed how informative and helpful an event like this can be that brings together not only majors but also industry professionals.
"I am very excited for this event.” I have been planning this event since March and have dedicated so much time and energy to this. I cannot wait to see what kind of good it does for the Petroleum Engineering space at Marietta College and the surrounding area,” Wick said .
Benjamin Petrie, a Petroleum Engineering major, also collaborated with his fellow peers on planning the exhibition, as well as helping with catering.
"Helping with this event gives me face time with future employers and other industry professionals. It has a massive impact on my future goals, by creating a career portal if you will. It is a direct transfer from in class opportunity to professional experience, without having to step foot off campus," Petrie said.
For more information about the Energy Technical Exhibition, contact Susan Hiser at 740-376-4775.