<body><div><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=0NlLB2_1Gnk4jQF00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0NlLB2_1Gnk4jQF00" width="768" height="512" >SOMERSET, Ky. (Nov. 5, 2026) — Somerset Community College is partnering with the Geothermal Drillers Association to launch a hands-on training program that will prepare workers for geothermal drilling careers and help develop the region’s energy workforce.The Geothermal Drilling Intensive will take place Jan. 11-23, 2027, at SCC’s Valley Oak Center in Somerset. Participants will complete 80 hours of classroom and field instruction covering drilling operations, safety and the development of geothermal boreholes and loop fields.The program combines technical instruction with drill site experience, allowing participants to observe drilling operations and follow borehole projects through completion.“The demand for skilled workers in the geothermal energy sector continues to grow,” said Alesa Johnson, vice chancellor of workforce solutions. “We are excited to partner with the Geothermal Drillers Association to develop this new career pathway and provide participants with hands-on training and industry knowledge that can lead directly to employment opportunities in this growing energy field.”The launch comes amid a federal push to expand training for energy careers. The U.S. Department of Energy recently announced nearly $11.1 million for eight workforce development projects through its Partnerships for Academic-Industry Career Training initiative, known as PACT.The initiative supports hands-on training and industry-recognized credentialing programs across energy sectors, including oil, natural gas, coal and geothermal energy. Its goal is to prepare workers to build, operate, maintain and modernize energy infrastructure.SCC’s intensive will introduce participants to the science behind geothermal boreholes and loop fields, drilling fundamentals, workplace protocols and safety practices. Instruction also will cover different drilling disciplines, subsurface conditions and the full life cycle of geothermal drilling projects.Critical thinking and problem-solving will be part of the curriculum, helping participants prepare for decisions and challenges encountered in field operations.Graduates may have access to additional opportunities, including potential paid apprenticeships in the geothermal industry. They also may be included in the Geothermal Drillers Association’s database of trained candidates, providing another connection to prospective employers.“Somerset Community College is helping lead the way in developing the next generation of geothermal drilling professionals, creating career pathways for new entrants and transitioning workers alike,” said Stacy Kinnaly, executive director of the Geothermal Drillers Association.Kinnaly said the association will contribute industry expertise and a regionally tailored curriculum to help build a skilled workforce and expand economic opportunity across Appalachia.For SCC, the partnership adds a training pathway that connects classroom learning with practical experience and potential employment.“Somerset Community College is proud to be part of preparing the next generation of energy professionals,” SCC Chancellor Carey Castle said. “Through partnerships with industry leaders, we’re creating pathways to high-demand careers while supporting economic growth throughout our region.”More information about the program is available on SCC’s Geothermal Drilling Intensive webpage. </div></body>

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SOMERSET, Ky. (Nov. 5, 2026) — Somerset Community College is partnering with the Geothermal Drillers Association to launch a hands-on training program that will prepare workers for geothermal drilling careers and help develop the region’s energy workforce. The Geothermal Drilling Intensive will take place Jan. 11-23, 2027, at...

Somerset Community College launches geothermal drilling training program

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SOMERSET, Ky. (Nov. 5, 2026) — Somerset Community College is partnering with the Geothermal Drillers Association to launch a hands-on training program that

Somerset Community College launches geothermal drilling training program

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