Despite record oil and gas production in the U.S., job opportunities in the sector continue to decline due to increased efficiency and technological advancements.
Mike Soraghan reports for E&E News.
In short:
- Oil production in the U.S. has reached an all-time high, with the country averaging 13.4 million barrels a day, yet employment in the oil and gas fields has decreased by nearly 20% from pre-pandemic levels.
- Technological innovations such as automated rigs and remote drilling have reduced the need for workers, leading to a more streamlined but smaller workforce.
- While job growth has slowed, the oil and gas industry continues to support related jobs in refineries, infrastructure and supply chains, contributing significantly to local economies.
Key quote:
“You just need fewer workers to produce more oil. When you need less workers, that’s a sign of growth. On the other hand, these are real people losing their jobs.”
— Greg Upton, executive director of Louisiana State University’s Center for Energy Studies
Why this matters:
The decline in oil and gas jobs amid rising production highlights a shift toward greater efficiency, which could affect employment in energy-dependent regions. As technology evolves, the industry may see further job reductions, impacting economic stability in key areas reliant on fossil fuel production.
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