Olds College’s land agent program will return after a one-year hiatus because of the poor economy.
An industry advisory committee recommended the program take new applicants for this year, the college announced on Wednesday.
“Energy prices are recovering and the industry in Western Canada is stabilizing,” said Andrew Fulford, Land Agent program alumna and current employee of Birchcliff Energy.
“This should lead to opportunities for new graduates as companies begin to expand their operations. Additionally, there should be numerous opportunities for graduates in the renewable energy, utilities and pipeline transmission sectors and the government/regulatory sector.”
Land agents help industry, government and landowners negotiate the terms of agreements to acquire land for infrastructure such as highways, well sites, pipeline routes, and alternate energy sites.
Olds College has offered a land agent program for 35 years.
“The Land Agent Program at Olds College is recognized in the energy sector as the place to look when hiring new Land Agents,” asserts Fulford.
“The program teaches the students the base skills required for them to be successful in this industry.”