Nicor Gas celebrates ‘Careers in Energy’ Week

NAPERVILLE, IL – October 18, 2023 – Nicor Gas is celebrating ‘Careers in Energy Week’ this week – a nationwide event highlighting career opportunities in the natural gas industry. Illinois’ growing economy increases demand for skilled trades workers in manufacturing, construction, and utility industries and the energy industry offers a variety of exciting options for students and work-ready adults.

Nicor Gas is committed to offering career opportunities to more than 2,000 talented and dedicated employees in a variety of technical, administrative and professional fields, as well as helping the next generation discover a career in the energy industry.

“At Nicor Gas, we design, construct, operate and maintain the company’s more than 34,000 miles of underground pipeline and are proud to employ individuals in a variety of technical, administrative and professional roles,” said Wendell Dallas, president and CEO of Nicor Gas. “As the largest natural gas provider in Illinois, we are committed to seeking skilled talent to fill key roles and preparing the next generation for opportunities in the industry through career fairs, in-classroom activities and community engagement programs.”

Nicor Gas Career Academy
Since 2018, Nicor Gas and IBEW Local 19, in partnership with NPL Construction Co. and the Quad County Urban League, have offered Career Academy, a free, six-week job-readiness program designed to prepare participants for entry-level work in the utility industry, focusing on natural gas.

Nicor Gas with the Quad County Urban League recently welcomed the ninth cohort of students to the program to address the growing need for a qualified, skilled and diverse pool of candidates within Nicor Gas and its construction partners, including but not limited to IBEW Local 19, NPL Construction Co., INTREN, KS Energy Services and Pipe Strong. 

To date, nearly 200 students have graduated from the program’s curriculum focused on natural gas operations training that integrates core math concepts, safety, technology, employability skills, and personal and professional development. Participants also job shadow the Nicor Gas Call Center to understand the customer experience.

To learn more about Nicor Gas’ Career Academy, visit NicorGas.com/CareerAcademy.

Nicor Gas Market Development Initiative
The Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program is fostering career growth in the energy efficiency industry through its new Market Development Initiative. The initiative is designed to help diverse contractors expand their business and underemployed individuals increase their skillset.   

Through the Trade Ally Development (TAD) program, diverse contractors can grow their businesses in the energy efficiency field. Through certifications, growth plan development and mentorship, they are equipped with tools to support their expansion.

The Workforce Training and Employment (WTE) program gives individuals who are new to the energy efficiency industry the opportunity to elevate their skills. Those who are currently in the field can also increase their earning potential by gaining key professional credentials, as well as hands-on and classroom training.

Resources for Students and Teachers
Nicor Gas has held a long-term partnership with the Center for Energy and Workforce Development (CEWD) to highlight exciting career opportunities and education in the natural gas industry. For videos, one pagers and more activities and information to share with students of all ages, visit CEDW.org.