how the heck do you break into o&g? [Archive] - Beyond.ca - Car Forums

ExtraSlow

01-04-2014, 05:04 PM

So, what's your degree in? who was your experience with? Why aren't they hiring you back?

I assume you are a new graduate? If so, you should know that it's ALWAYS hard to land a great first job. co-ops and internships do help, so you may have to work harder to get past that. Also, all resource industries are cyclical, and some years the number of new graduate positions is a lot smaller than the number of new graduates. This means again, you may need to work harder to get yourself hired.

Once you have five years of experience, you are good to go in this industry. Before that, you aren't as valuable as you think, and you need to be constantly proving yourself.

Not sure what's happening with all the big companies, but I do know at least two of them have an informal hiring freeze on while they go through some restructuring. A lot of companies are selling assets, and looking to shrink rather than grow. Hard to justify hiring people in that environment.

Have you considered field work on the service side of the business?

J-D

01-04-2014, 05:12 PM

Originally posted by 8baller8
I don't have a classic internship with an o&g company like a lot of my peers but I do have some solid work experience under my belt already. I can guarantee it beats what the majority of my peers did in their co-op positions.

I've been applying like mad to e&p and service companies to no avail.

Is it all who you know or did I miss the boat in university by not doing co-op?

I never did any co-op or internships and got a job in O&G right after graduating.

If you aren't getting any feedback after applying like crazy, perhaps you need to work on your resume and cover letters?

8baller8

01-04-2014, 05:19 PM

Forgot to mention I have a Commerce degree from Haskayne.

8baller8

01-04-2014, 05:22 PM

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
So, what's your degree in? who was your experience with? Why aren't they hiring you back?

I assume you are a new graduate? If so, you should know that it's ALWAYS hard to land a great first job. co-ops and internships do help, so you may have to work harder to get past that. Also, all resource industries are cyclical, and some years the number of new graduate positions is a lot smaller than the number of new graduates. This means again, you may need to work harder to get yourself hired.

Once you have five years of experience, you are good to go in this industry. Before that, you aren't as valuable as you think, and you need to be constantly proving yourself.

Not sure what's happening with all the big companies, but I do know at least two of them have an informal hiring freeze on while they go through some restructuring. A lot of companies are selling assets, and looking to shrink rather than grow. Hard to justify hiring people in that environment.

Have you considered field work on the service side of the business?

I agree with the fact that I'm not as valuable as I think I am. But I also think I am more valuable than some folks getting hired before me. :poosie:

Not sure if I should go from business graduate to work in the field in the service side either. I've done field work in my past and to be honest, I don't really want to do it anymore. I don't know if that's the best career move for me right now either.

infected

01-04-2014, 05:24 PM

So what kind of work experience do you have?

8baller8

01-04-2014, 05:27 PM

Originally posted by infected
So what kind of work experience do you have?

manager for a transportation company...I'd break it down further but I value at least SOME anonymity on these forums. I'm just starting to get really discouraged like it wasn't worth it to get my degree. Especially when I have friends in the field making huge bank and other friends working downtown o&g still making pretty solid money with potential for advancement.

BigMass

01-04-2014, 05:43 PM

Originally posted by 8baller8

manager for a transportation company...I'd break it down further but I value at least SOME anonymity on these forums. I'm just starting to get really discouraged like it wasn't worth it to get my degree. Especially when I have friends in the field making huge bank and other friends working downtown o&g still making pretty solid money with potential for advancement.

managers in O&G usually come up from relevant experienced positions. Engineers, techs, designers etc. The only thing you're going to get in O&G without a relevant degree is secretarial type work / HR / accounting etc.

J-D

01-04-2014, 05:52 PM

Originally posted by 8baller8

manager for a transportation company...I'd break it down further but I value at least SOME anonymity on these forums. I'm just starting to get really discouraged like it wasn't worth it to get my degree. Especially when I have friends in the field making huge bank and other friends working downtown o&g still making pretty solid money with potential for advancement.

How many years of experience do you have in a management role?

If you think your peers are applying straight to management roles out of their undergraduates, you're mistaken. Your competition is much further into the workforce.

8baller8

01-04-2014, 06:00 PM

Originally posted by J-D

How many years of experience do you have in a management role?

If you think your peers are applying straight to management roles out of their undergraduates, you're mistaken. Your competition is much further into the workforce.

I only have a little over a year of managerial experience nor am i applying for managerial roles. Looking for a analyst/coordinator type position. Trust me, i am not shooting for the stars. Realistically, I know where I stand.

Thomas Gabriel

01-04-2014, 06:42 PM

Commerce degree with what major? Supply chain sounds like the best fit based on what you said. But if you don't know exactly what you want to get into, you won't get in. And any new grad job gets 300+ applicants, most with experience. You're gonna have to network. Also if you've applied to 50+ jobs with no calls at all, there's a mistake on your resume/cover letter.

hampstor

01-04-2014, 07:04 PM

Without direct oil/gas experience, one way is to get lots of exp in a transplantable line of business - anything that is considered a 'corporate service' (ie: supply chain, human resources, communications, finance, IT), and then network like mad with people in the industry.

With what you have - I'd also suggest looking into an entry/intermediate supply chain role (buyer/supplier management) to get your foot in the door. Since you worked for a transportation company, you could focus on transportation within supply chain (ie: transportation buyer/purchaser dealing with FTL/LTL/hotshot carriers).

8baller8

01-04-2014, 07:23 PM

Thanks for the help guys.

403ep3

01-04-2014, 08:19 PM

It is kind of tough to get into O&G nowadays. Even my company is looking to restructure some areas of the business and are looking to hire from within, first and foremost, and look at outside candidates after.

It's good to know people so make sure you network and try to get contacts that will vouch for you. HR contacts are nice to have.

themack89

01-05-2014, 09:16 AM

A lot of my friends have recently graduated Econ or Haskayne or Both and are having a bitch of a time getting a job. I can't explain why (and its not because they are bad at life), but things are slow going for some reason right now.

This is why I stopped applying for white collar and went to the rigs lol

BigMass

01-05-2014, 09:54 AM

Originally posted by themack89
A lot of my friends have recently graduated Econ or Haskayne or Both and are having a bitch of a time getting a job. I can't explain why (and its not because they are bad at life), but things are slow going for some reason right now.

most companies around the world now are looking to maximize profits through cuts and efficiencies not increased growth. This is taking a huge toll on the job market. Calgary is slowing down as a lot of budgets for 2014 have been slashed. Unless oil goes up another $20 or we get firm approval for Keystone it's going to be a slow year for growth and new hires. I don't foresee massive layoffs but if Calgary keeps getting 30k new people every year thinking this is the garden of Eden the job market could start becoming over saturated pretty fast.

16hypen3sp

01-05-2014, 10:16 AM

Originally posted by BigMass

most companies around the world now are looking to maximize profits through cuts and efficiencies not increased growth. This is taking a huge toll on the job market. Calgary is slowing down as a lot of budgets for 2014 have been slashed. Unless oil goes up another $20 or we get firm approval for Keystone it's going to be a slow year for growth and new hires. I don't foresee massive layoffs but if Calgary keeps getting 30k new people every year thinking this is the garden of Eden the job market could start becoming over saturated pretty fast.

:thumbsup:

You want to break into O&G?... get rid of the white collar search and go blue collar. Best decision I have ever made.

8baller8

01-05-2014, 10:28 AM

Nast

01-05-2014, 12:15 PM

Originally posted by 16hypen3sp

:thumbsup:

You want to break into O&G?... get rid of the white collar search and go blue collar. Best decision I have ever made.

This! Im in IT/GIS right now and there is no hope of moving up or taking on more responsibility. I've had 3 interviews so far with other places, all within the IT sector and they either didn't end up hiring anyone or went with someone else. And these positions paid less than what Im currently making (I was willing to sacrifice a bit). My skills transfer easily since I have a degree with IT and business admin as a minor. The GIS side gives me more application support and programming.

Ive come to realize that I hate sitting in front of a computer doing nothing so Im looking to get into field jobs. Any advice

bjstare

01-05-2014, 01:06 PM

Originally posted by 8baller8

I can understand Econ students not getting hired. But not hiring Haskayne students is ridiculous, IMO.

:rofl:

msommers

01-05-2014, 01:38 PM

O&G seems to be in a slump right now, not really sure when the high of the cycle is going to hit again but I hope it's in that direction anyways. I've been picking up supplies periodically at a Geo store over the last few months and every time there is someone who wants to chat (read: rant) about how shitty this year is for work (because there isn't as much).

I was fortunate in having quite a bit of experience coming out of school in my direct field working for the government, even an extended summer student job for 8 months instead of 4 at a mid-size O&G company. Left with great rapport, in fact my mentor and also manager go for lunch every couple months to keep in touch. Unfortunately graduation time rolled around and the company downsized the group, someone internally took my job (who recently got laid off). My mentor's group has since downsized considerably and my old manager, who left that company, has been applying elsewhere because his latest company isn't really drilling (among other gongshow things in the budget).

Everyone I know who got full-time Jr jobs after Uni were summer students there, Master/PhD students or very, very lucky because they knew someone personally. I found it rather assuming and frustrating how many ladies got in the office when everything on paper said a lot more people were more qualified. But hey if I was a manager I can't say I blame them, they're good looking. There are a few girls who did field work, so it wasn't everyone and of course guys go in too.

Really at the end of the day, it's who you know. I was hoping field work would expand this because I barely know anyone. Unfortunately everyone downtown left the project area we were in because it basically got axed (after being there for 3 years). The group was small and for some odd reason most left for jobs in the US. The company I'm doing work for now has a hiring freeze.

I'm still grateful to have a job in my field and gaining related experience. I'd hate to be a marketing student or something working at Futureshop waiting for "The Big Break."

M.alex

01-05-2014, 04:06 PM

Originally posted by 8baller8

I can understand Econ students not getting hired. But not hiring Haskayne students is ridiculous, IMO.

Oh yea, because Haskayne students are so fvcking awesome :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

schurchill39

01-05-2014, 05:35 PM

Agreed with everyone's comments here about the industry being slow and cyclical right now. Everyone is having a hard time finding jobs without some serious connections.

That being said, a lot of it comes down to attitude and my first impression when reading your post was that you had a pretty entitled attitude. Perhaps you're projecting that in your interviews?

If you always compare yourself to others, especially when you think you deserve better than them, you're not going to get very far. Humble yourself, keep applying and maybe if you have to do some shitty jobs to break in (blue collar service work) then do it to get ahead.

rizfarmer

01-05-2014, 06:11 PM

Biggest thing likely holding you back would be lack of graduate level degree or accreditations, not to mention everything else stated in this thread working against your favour. Majority of new professionals I see breaking into oil and gas are CFA/MBA. I even see this trickling down into banking these days. Over qualified people are settling for jobs in non commodity based businesses because of the current competitive environment.

Unless you have engineering or project based IT skills essential to o&g, your chances of gaining employment in that industry are not good without significant inside connections. This doesn't appear to be changing any time soon either. Good luck anyway.... keep persisting

BrknFngrs

01-05-2014, 06:24 PM

Originally posted by 8baller8

I can understand Econ students not getting hired. But not hiring Haskayne students is ridiculous, IMO.

Yikes, you definitely need to dial in this attitude. This by itself could be sinking you.

403ep3

01-05-2014, 07:03 PM

Originally posted by BrknFngrs

Yikes, you definitely need to dial in this attitude. This by itself could be sinking you.

Lol wow! I have an idea why you aren't getting jobs now :nut:

Ease up on the attitude.

pfis300

01-05-2014, 08:10 PM

Yeah a lot of people want the "good" O&G jobs right off the bat, and nobody is wanting to start at the bottom. Even to big companies if you have a brain, and can say you went drilling or servicing or something it shows you can handle the shit.

CapnCrunch

01-06-2014, 09:44 AM

Originally posted by 8baller8

Especially when I have friends in the field making huge bank and other friends working downtown o&g still making pretty solid money with potential for advancement.

Why aren't your friends helping to get your foot in the door?

busdepot

01-06-2014, 10:01 AM

Originally posted by 8baller8

I can understand Econ students not getting hired. But not hiring Haskayne students is ridiculous, IMO.

You might want to check your ego here, slugger.

I know a few econ guys who do just fine and better than Haskayne grads. Trust me when I say that your B.Comm isn't that special. I know this, I have one. As a freshly minted grad, you literally know nothing. I'm sorry, but you don't. You don't have any value to an E&P at this point because they're going to need to train you from scratch. It's cheaper for them to find someone who's already got some time under their belt. Things aren't the way they used to be and the big shops aren't spending money like drunken pirates anymore on hiring.

You're going to need to either get analyst experience elsewhere or re-evaluate your direction.

interlude

01-06-2014, 10:25 AM

Originally posted by 8baller8

I can understand Econ students not getting hired. But not hiring Haskayne students is ridiculous, IMO.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. This is why companies hire people with relevant experience, not the education they have on paper.

Graduating from Haskayne does not give you a pass in the grown up world.

Neil4Speed

01-06-2014, 10:41 AM

Originally posted by 8baller8

I can understand Econ students not getting hired. But not hiring Haskayne students is ridiculous, IMO.

Holy quoteworthy. I mean yeah, any idiot could get an Econ degree right? Supply Demand badabing badaboom.

themack89

01-06-2014, 06:33 PM

Surely 8baller8 is trolling us....

Marsh

01-06-2014, 06:57 PM

Originally posted by 8baller8

I can understand Econ students not getting hired. But not hiring Haskayne students is ridiculous, IMO.

I Lol'd:rofl:

8baller8

01-06-2014, 08:20 PM

I meant nothing by my statement about Econ students, nor do I really care about student life. I'm certainly not an elitist. I don't know why so many of you are making a big deal out of this.

Thanks for the advice from those who helped me. It seems it is challenging to get a connection inside oil and gas so I should be happy about my current position in life.

CompletelyNumb

01-06-2014, 08:38 PM

Originally posted by CapnCrunch

Why aren't your friends helping to get your foot in the door?

Most relevant post.

You have connections already. Use them.

FraserB

01-06-2014, 08:44 PM

Originally posted by CapnCrunch

Why aren't your friends helping to get your foot in the door?

They're probably Econ grads.

403ep3

01-06-2014, 09:01 PM

My gf is in HR and pretty much all resumes she sees have a degree of some sort. They seem to be a dime a dozen. Go talk to your friends and tell them to be better friends and get your foot in the door.

Take a look at volunteering too. This is surprisingly a good way to network! For example, HR need a certain amount of volunteer/education hours to keep their designation.

msommers

01-06-2014, 09:07 PM

Originally posted by 403ep3
HR need a certain amount of volunteer/education hours to keep their designation.

Wait what?! Need to volunteer :confused:

ExtraSlow

01-06-2014, 11:20 PM

8baller8, you know who people help the most? Humble Employees, Hard workers, and people who earn the respect of their peers and superiors. None of those things is easy.

I have the pleasure of working with a lot of new grads and students in my job. Mostly Engineers, but the principles are transferable. I've had an intern tell me that the work I gave him was "uninteresting and not teaching me enough". Funny thing was, that was my work as a full time P.Eng. That student did not get a job offer. I've had students who worked hard at shit assignments, because they knew they'd learn something, and when they were done those assignments, they came right to me and asked for more. They were humble and hungry for knowledge. Those are the kind of people I want to hire.

Your first step to improving your position isn't "getting a break" from someone else, it's changing your attitude, and making the most with what you have.
Ask about job-shadows, read job posting for intermediate positions and try to figure out what experience you need for those, then figure out what entry level positions you should be looking for. I have news for you, most entry level jobs are shit. In every field. Most shit jobs also teach you a lot.

Anyway, lecture over, good luck.

austic

01-06-2014, 11:41 PM

I used to work on campus recruiting for both summer and new grad positions in the finance side.

Without a Co-Op or a Summer Student position your resume doesn't get much of a second look as everyone you are competing with has a degree.

I would try volunteering with an applicable industry association.

403ep3

01-07-2014, 08:21 AM

Originally posted by msommers

Wait what?! Need to volunteer :confused:

I dunno. Apparently 100 points needed in 3 years? You can volunteer for the points?

themack89

01-07-2014, 09:54 AM

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
8baller8, you know who people help the most? Humble Employees, Hard workers, and people who earn the respect of their peers and superiors. None of those things is easy..

Wise words. I learned this the hard way

r3ccOs

01-07-2014, 10:04 AM

8baller8 is probably a typical entitled 30 year old new grad who lives with his parents, thinking he should be in a Management role after finally finishing his b.comm

Well sir, I can tell you a number of your graduate class, if they have broken into O&G, thanks to their internship, are doing basic data entry jobs in Finance, HR, or Accounting.

In fact, a econ degree may be more relevant in a mid-stream/downstream company than a general b.comm if they are looking for people to perform forecasting for our commodity traders.

However this experience can be gained anywhere, and if its relevant, you can "break into O&G".

Otherwise, sorry bud, if you want to be the VP of E&P or Thermal, I think you took the wrong major, cause a Geosciences degree would be alot more relevant to O&G.

I'm sure if you want to be a heavy machine operator up in the Mac, someone here can hook you up!

bjstare

01-07-2014, 11:52 AM

Originally posted by 8baller8
I meant nothing by my statement about Econ students, nor do I really care about student life. I'm certainly not an elitist. I don't know why so many of you are making a big deal out of this.

...

I don't think anyone thought you cared about student life; your comment insinuated that you think your Haskayne education is more valuable than an Econ degree (in the post-grad, grown-up world). This made you seem arrogant and entitled, in a thread where you're asking for help. That's why everyone is LOL'ing at you.

in*10*se

01-07-2014, 12:09 PM

so much humble pie served in this thread.... :poosie:

this attitude doesn't change much even when someone gets older and more educated either... god damn post designated professionals/specialists think they own the world... and this isn't restricted to O&G for that matter... doctors, lawyers, finance, accounting, engineering, mba's... everyone thinks they're entitled...

hard work and delivering results speak louder volumes than any piece of paper from any Ivy league school or your Haskayne school of business.

You are a dime a dozen, and a small fish in a small pond... you would have a lot to learn about life and the world outside of your little bubble in calgary.

busdepot

01-07-2014, 02:44 PM

Originally posted by r3ccOs

In fact, a econ degree may be more relevant in a mid-stream/downstream company than a general b.comm if they are looking for people to perform forecasting for our commodity traders.

THIS :thumbsup:

8baller8

01-07-2014, 08:22 PM

Originally posted by r3ccOs
8baller8 is probably a typical entitled 30 year old new grad who lives with his parents, thinking he should be in a Management role after finally finishing his b.comm

Well sir, I can tell you a number of your graduate class, if they have broken into O&G, thanks to their internship, are doing basic data entry jobs in Finance, HR, or Accounting.

In fact, a econ degree may be more relevant in a mid-stream/downstream company than a general b.comm if they are looking for people to perform forecasting for our commodity traders.

However this experience can be gained anywhere, and if its relevant, you can "break into O&G".

Otherwise, sorry bud, if you want to be the VP of E&P or Thermal, I think you took the wrong major, cause a Geosciences degree would be alot more relevant to O&G.

I'm sure if you want to be a heavy machine operator up in the Mac, someone here can hook you up!

Wrong, not 30 and dont expect to be in management.
Moreover, i fully expect to get an entry level job seeing as i want to "break in" to oil and gas. Nice try on thr psychoanalysis though.

8baller8

01-07-2014, 08:25 PM

Originally posted by in*10*se
so much humble pie served in this thread.... :poosie:

this attitude doesn't change much even when someone gets older and more educated either... god damn post designated professionals/specialists think they own the world... and this isn't restricted to O&G for that matter... doctors, lawyers, finance, accounting, engineering, mba's... everyone thinks they're entitled...

hard work and delivering results speak louder volumes than any piece of paper from any Ivy league school or your Haskayne school of business.

You are a dime a dozen, and a small fish in a small pond... you would have a lot to learn about life and the world outside of your little bubble in calgary.

I agree with you. So much butthurt in this thread. I think i can prove myself in oil and gas if i finally break in. In addition, i truly think haskayne has prepared me more for post-graduate life compared to othet majors. Is this really that big of a big deal to you? I already work a real job and know what it takes to be successful. You seem to be forgetting that and trying to "teach me a lesson".

icky2unk

01-07-2014, 10:23 PM

Originally posted by 8baller8

I agree with you. So much butthurt in this thread. I think i can prove myself in oil and gas if i finally break in. In addition, i truly think haskayne has prepared me more for post-graduate life compared to othet majors. Is this really that big of a big deal to you? I already work a real job and know what it takes to be successful. You seem to be forgetting that and trying to "teach me a lesson".

If you did then why are you on beyond asking for advice on how to get a job in O&G lol. Trust me I use about 2% of the information I've learnt in Haskayne and I actually think Haskayne is one of the worst business schools in the world because you don't learn anything of relevance. Theory and a foundation but no real applicable skills. High Schools are providing better excel skills to students then haskayne does lol.

The difference between a FNCE Degree and an ACCT degree is what..4 classes? lol.

I can also tell you that everyone I know in Haskayne who is looking for a job that I know of has an entitlement issue and the ones who don't are the ones that are working downtown.

Nast

01-07-2014, 10:59 PM

I know most of the blame lies with the individual but there is also some fault with the school for giving people these inflated egos. Schools do all they can to promote and market the institution then talk themselves up to students once they get there. Some of them are dumb enough to drink the koolaid if you will, and believe that school X gives you something no other school does. Since post secondary grads are a dime a dozen with our generation, it takes something more tangible than smoke and mirrors to stand out and get your "dream job". My two cents anyways.

J-D

01-07-2014, 11:21 PM

Originally posted by 8baller8

I agree with you. So much butthurt in this thread. I think i can prove myself in oil and gas if i finally break in. In addition, i truly think haskayne has prepared me more for post-graduate life compared to othet majors. Is this really that big of a big deal to you? I already work a real job and know what it takes to be successful. You seem to be forgetting that and trying to "teach me a lesson".

Haskayne hasn't really prepared you for that much. There are group projects - but the people who gain the most experience from that were social beforehand anyways. I'm sure I use less than 5% of what I learned getting my BComm on a weekly basis :rofl:

Perhaps I got lucky going directly into O&G after graduating... but the majority of my marketable skills were learned on-the-job.

woodywoodford

01-08-2014, 12:16 PM

Originally posted by 8baller8

I can understand Econ students not getting hired. But not hiring Haskayne students is ridiculous, IMO.

Hmm...let's see.

Finance major: TVM, TVM, TVM, repeat.

Econ major: econometrics, game theory, competitive strategy, international economics.....and TVM.

So which ones more useful? I did both, this isn't exaggerating.

dirtsniffer

01-08-2014, 12:29 PM

Originally posted by 8baller8

...In addition, i truly think haskayne has prepared me more for post-graduate life compared to othet majors....

I went through Schulich and I had no problem getting into O&G :love:

r3ccOs

01-08-2014, 02:12 PM

Originally posted by J-D

Haskayne hasn't really prepared you for that much. There are group projects - but the people who gain the most experience from that were social beforehand anyways. I'm sure I use less than 5% of what I learned getting my BComm on a weekly basis :rofl:

Perhaps I got lucky going directly into O&G after graduating... but the majority of my marketable skills were learned on-the-job.

lol my bcomm undergrad was from Asper school of business, but I didn't expect exclusive treatment after completing lol

icky2unk

01-08-2014, 03:46 PM

Originally posted by woodywoodford

Hmm...let's see.

Finance major: TVM, TVM, TVM, repeat.

Econ major: econometrics, game theory, competitive strategy, international economics.....and TVM.

So which ones more useful? I did both, this isn't exaggerating.

That comparison is no better than his assumption that a degree from Haskayne is superior to Economics.

If all you got out of your finance was TVM then you didn't take the right classes. Both are perfectly capable degrees depending on what you want to do upon graduation or what you are interested in.

Finance: TVM, Mergers & Acquisitions, Portfolio Management, International Business, Options & Futures, New Venture Financing

bjstare

01-08-2014, 05:16 PM

Originally posted by dirtsniffer

I went through Schulich and I had no problem getting into O&G :love:

Haha I have a B.Eng as well. I was gonna suggest this, but can you imagine how arrogant/entitled OP would sound if he got an engineering degree as well?
:drama:

faiz999

01-08-2014, 05:17 PM

my advice would be seeking out further certifications that separate you from your peers.

also as mentioned before, network. the guys you know working O&G likely knew someone in the company beforehand. the old adage often holds true "its not what you know, its who you know."

good luck in your search!

viff3r

01-09-2014, 08:49 AM

Originally posted by 8baller8

manager for a transportation company...I'd break it down further but I value at least SOME anonymity on these forums. I'm just starting to get really discouraged like it wasn't worth it to get my degree. Especially when I have friends in the field making huge bank and other friends working downtown o&g still making pretty solid money with potential for advancement.
Well you're definitely gonna take a pay cut, based on your comment in the salary thread.

I'm 24 and I make about 75K-80K (dependent on bonus). When I tell people my age this, most are pretty impressed.

Why not carry on with your current company? Or do you wanna get out from under your boss' (dad's) thumb?

Disoblige

01-09-2014, 09:41 AM

When someone posts their salary (and tries to increase it by including bonuses), then adds "When I tell people my age this, most are pretty impressed. ", sounds like someone who's trying to flaunt to me no matter how someone puts it. And with his tone in this thread already, I totally see why he's getting heckled in here. Pretty hilarious.

Not going to tell you (8baller8) to change your attitude, because it's obvious you won't.

I can tell you most if not all my interviews I was hired more so because of personality moreso than educational background.

I know some young people in engineering with entitled attitudes and they are the most annoying people ever. They act like they deserve more and they try to bargain their salary when they have little to no experience. Also at work they think they are all that. It really makes all of us look bad and they obviously have no idea how to work as a team. I'm just glad that usually this doesn't work out for people in the real world, as they get eaten alive.

GTS4tw

01-09-2014, 09:55 AM

Originally posted by viff3r

Why not carry on with your current company? Or do you wanna get out from under your boss' (dad's) thumb?

Haha fucking classic.

Cos

01-09-2014, 10:11 AM

themack89

01-09-2014, 11:15 AM

@icy2unk and woody...

There is a fundamental difference between Haskayne grads and Econ grads, its thought process. Believe it or not, the years you spend in University DOES change the way you think, in some cases permanently.

I can't say for certain what Haskayne does to you, but my best ball park is teaches you process and application. Econ mostly teaches you to think. Its an ass load of theory, a little application, and focuses heavily on thinking about the two combined.

But one things for certain: many Haskayne students believe Econ is easy as shit, because they take classes with Tracey. Let me set up your Econ stream and I PROMISE you will kiss your 3.7 good bye. :) And no, Money & Banking is not in that stream.

bjstare

01-09-2014, 11:27 AM

Originally posted by themack89
@icy2unk and woody...

......

I can't say for certain what Haskayne does to you,

...........

Based on what I've seen, it turns people to arrogant douches.

(Before OP gets defensive, this comment is not directed solely at him. My opinion has been formed over the last few years.)

woodywoodford

01-09-2014, 11:32 AM

I didn't even go to U of C :bigpimp:

austic

01-09-2014, 11:33 AM

I like how this has turned into one giant pissing match between Haskayne and Econ grads.

:dunno:

The biggest problem with new grads these days are the sense of entitlement. The salary and responsibility expectations out of school are laughable. I blame the professors who feed them a constant line of bullshit that they are hitting the industry at just the “right time” as the baby boomers are going to retire and they will all become rich executives.

In reality people are delaying retirement and these days grads are a dime a dozen so unless you have applicable experience getting a decent job out of school is tough.

Your education may get you in the door but once there, hard work and stying humble will keep you there.

icky2unk

01-09-2014, 11:40 AM

Originally posted by themack89
@icy2unk and woody...

There is a fundamental difference between Haskayne grads and Econ grads, its thought process. Believe it or not, the years you spend in University DOES change the way you think, in some cases permanently.

I can't say for certain what Haskayne does to you, but my best ball park is teaches you process and application. Econ mostly teaches you to think. Its an ass load of theory, a little application, and focuses heavily on thinking about the two combined.

But one things for certain: many Haskayne students believe Econ is easy as shit, because they take classes with Tracey. Let me set up your Econ stream and I PROMISE you will kiss your 3.7 good bye. :) And no, Money & Banking is not in that stream.

Oh I don't disagree, I'm just simply stating that both degrees serve their own purpose and each degree can be garbage or it can be good information depending which route you take.

Both can be difficult and both can be easy, it's a matter of whether or not you wish you challenge yourself.

Nonetheless I do agree that many Haskayne students are entitled but they soon come quick to realize that doesn't get them anywhere. It's easy to pick out good from the bad at haskayne within 5 minutes of a conversation. As mentioned the issue is that is the mentality Haskayne likes to spew out, I mean have you talked to Ryan Lee before lol. That guys is a prime example of what Haskayne does to you lol.

AsianAfroSamurai

01-09-2014, 11:53 AM

A lot of the advice on here is spot on but one thing that I notice that I wanted to point out to you is its not clear what you want to be doing in the O&G side.

What is the exact roles you are chasing after? If your current role transfers easily to an O&G role than that's great, if not what is it that you want to be doing?

If you don't have that clarity, no one is going to give it to you.

It's likely that you may need to train up. Have you considered focusing on getting your production accounting designation or even landsmen training.

Don't see these things as the end. A lot of very successful people start in land or production accounting and branch out based on their hard work and skills.

Your degree just gives you an entry to the door. That's about it. It's hard to accept that after spending 4 years of your life getting a degree that it doesn't amount to much but that's basically the reality.

My practical advice to you would be:

1) Find out all the roles that you can transition to. Find the gaps in training that you can start to fill.

2) Setup info meetings with a bunch of companies and just talk to them. Let them know your eagerness and that you want to make a transition. Eat some humble pie please. Some of these people you might talk to may not have degrees and just have SAIT or NAIT. Show them that you are willing to work hard and prove yourself. A lot of that will come down to your attitude. Gently bug them once a month and at some point something will fit.

3) Stop going after mid-level positions. You will likely start in some junior position. Take it with the understanding that you will work your way back up and can change roles. If you have a strong network, this might be different but if you did, you already would have a job. Mid level positions are for people with real experience. They don't want people to do on the job training.

4) Educate yourself. Sign up for SAIT's two day training course or take this course - http://www.oilpatch101.com/index.html. Get some books - this one is good - http://www.amazon.com/Nontechnical-Petroleum-Exploration-Drilling-Production/dp/1593702698

Check out CAPPA's primer - http://cappa.basecorp.com/index.aspx?tabid=13&sc=OGPOL

Learn this stuff. If you don't understand what a UWI is or what DLS is or the lifecycle of a Well than you are sending the wrong message. Talking the language and showing that you have an understanding of the industry beyond the words oil and gas will go a long way.

5) Stop comparing yourself to your peer group the way you are. There's healthy comparison and then there is your type of comparison. Healthy comparison is figuring out what others did differently than you and how you can improve. Comparing yourself based on how much better you should be doing based on your education versus others is just foolish. That's throwing the buck and not fully accepting responsibility for your own life.

Good luck!

busdepot

01-09-2014, 12:02 PM

I hate the people who say they went to Haskayne, and not U of C. If didn't actually go to UofC, you wouldn't really know what that is. There are very few schools that actually have that pedigree (Rotman and Osgoode come to mind). Haskayne isn't even on that map. There are schools in Canada that have way better rankings (which I know can be trivial) that are almost completely unheard of such as HEC Montreal.

Haskayne doesn't really prepare you for anything. There are a few useful classes and you only come out of there with the most basic understanding of concepts with some senior finance and accounting classes being the exception. Haskayne has bit of funding under its belt which pays for some flashy signage, some computers and a few endowments for research, but to say it's a top school is a joke.

The only real relevant knowledge from Haskayne that I picked up was from that SGMA course with Dr. Bob and the business law class from Professor Bowal. The rest was picked up on the job. I think it's hilarious that grads out of there thinking that a top employer like GS or a major E&P is going to see Haskayne on your resume and think that this kid is a surefire bet and you'll get hired at 90k out of school. Raff out roud.

in*10*se

01-09-2014, 01:17 PM

OP. Speaking from experience.

Go to the Haskayne career center.

1. Talk to a career advisor there about what you want to do.
2. Bring your resume for critique
3. Ask them for job postings in the O&G industry

I really think this should be your first step, rather than coming to a car forum for career advice. Utilize what you have at haskayne and start there.

ExtraSlow

01-09-2014, 01:55 PM

At least the people at Haskayne won't make fun of your degree like some of us are.

BananaFob

01-09-2014, 02:05 PM

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
At least the people at Haskayne won't make fun of your degree like some of us are.

Lol don't be so sure.

I had an International Business Degree (worthless) and I had it written as B.Comm - International Business on my resume. They advised that I delete my concentration and just leave it as B.Comm. as it would be "confusing" to potential employers.

mrsingh

01-09-2014, 04:15 PM

- Show up downtown to one of the corporate offices after hours
- Bring crowbar
- Avoid security
- Profit?

msommers

01-09-2014, 05:04 PM

:rofl:

/thread

Thomas Gabriel

01-09-2014, 05:48 PM

At least you learn some math in econ. Haskayne degree = CFA level 1.

icky2unk

01-09-2014, 07:20 PM

Originally posted by Thomas Gabriel
At least you learn some math in econ. Haskayne degree = CFA level 1.

It's pretty funny all the Econ majors complain about the OP's comment about Econ yet they all come on here bashing Haskayne claiming their degree is so much better. IMO that makes you no better and just as conceited.

Could it be possible that both degrees have their benefits any weaknesses or is that concept to difficult to grasp lol

Darkane

01-09-2014, 08:47 PM

So let me get this straight ..

Would Haskayne as an entity be compatible to McPhail at SAIT?

If so.. El oh fucking el.

borN

01-10-2014, 09:27 AM

Originally posted by busdepot
I hate the people who say they went to Haskayne, and not U of C. If didn't actually go to UofC, you wouldn't really know what that is. There are very few schools that actually have that pedigree (Rotman and Osgoode come to mind). Haskayne isn't even on that map. There are schools in Canada that have way better rankings (which I know can be trivial) that are almost completely unheard of such as HEC Montreal.

Haskayne doesn't really prepare you for anything. There are a few useful classes and you only come out of there with the most basic understanding of concepts with some senior finance and accounting classes being the exception. Haskayne has bit of funding under its belt which pays for some flashy signage, some computers and a few endowments for research, but to say it's a top school is a joke.

The only real relevant knowledge from Haskayne that I picked up was from that SGMA course with Dr. Bob and the business law class from Professor Bowal. The rest was picked up on the job. I think it's hilarious that grads out of there thinking that a top employer like GS or a major E&P is going to see Haskayne on your resume and think that this kid is a surefire bet and you'll get hired at 90k out of school. Raff out roud.

Although I agree with you that employers, especially larger firms not based in Calgary, would question the pedigree of Haskayne compared to other top schools, I do however think your view on "relevant knowledge from Haskayne" is very limited and shallow.

Fact is, Haskayne is not a top business school in Canada. Some programs excel more so than others, and some stuff is offered at Haskayne that is unique, such as oil and gas energy classes, but as a whole the department has followed the fate of being mediocre. From a finance perspective, if you're trying to get a job in private equity in Toronto, SF or NYC, you'll be competing against graduates from top schools who will already be ahead just based on that fact.

However, that doesn't mean the experience and knowledge gained is redundant and useless. It's unfortunate you think that it didn't "prepare you for anything". In my case, I took what I thought to be the most challenging finance courses and branched off into a few energy management courses that helped me get into the O&G industry. One class in particular is taught by a BP trader and Plains Midstream BD Manager, which I thought to be entirely useful (and still use the information gained from that course today). Even more relevant in my university term was the case studies I took which helped me differentiate myself and allowed me to gain key industry contacts, ultimately helping me secure a job in investment banking.

Maybe it's just the way I've viewed university though. My thought have always been that the goal of going through university is to get a job. You study mostly basic, theoretical concepts that aren't applicable on the job, but it's to show that you can do it successfully and better than others. Of course I'm not going to use basic TVM and Gordon Growth valuation theory to value an O&G company now, but you have to build your fundamentals somewhere, right?

I also say Haskayne just because it's easier than U of C Business - not for any other reason... (but can't say that on behalf of everyone, of course).

Anyways, getting back on topic, breaking into O&G depends on what field you're getting into. The accounting route is pretty clear cut. If you come from a finance background, it's a bit trickier and most E&P companies only need accountants, back office staff and engineers.

ExtraSlow

01-10-2014, 09:36 AM

Originally posted by borN
Maybe it's just the way I've viewed university though. My thought have always been that the goal of going through university is to get a job. You study mostly basic, theoretical concepts that aren't applicable on the job, but it's to show that you can do it successfully and better than others.
Bang on. I studied at a mid-level engineering school, but it got me the paper I needed, and that, combined with some hard work, got me my first job. After that first job, nobody gives a fuck where you want to school. The real test of your ability and value happens in the workplace.

Whenever I work with students from one of the top engineerin schools, I always tell them to park the ego. Folks from the "lesser" schools don't need that speech.

themack89

01-10-2014, 09:49 AM

Originally posted by borN
One class in particular is taught by a BP trader and Plains Midstream BD Manager

I thought Neal was a trader as well... Or are you talking about a different class

borN

01-10-2014, 10:05 AM

Originally posted by themack89

I thought Neal was a trader as well... Or are you talking about a different class

Maybe a different class. Dave was the guy from plains, Wade from BP.

busdepot

01-10-2014, 11:57 AM

I do agree that the purpose of going to school was to secure future employment and make the right contacts to get there. While there are certainly some valuable things that could be taken from the B.Comm program at UofC, the skill-set you leave with is primitive at best. Aside from a few senior level finance or accounting classes which essentially serve to get your feet wet, you only gain a very simple and conceptual understanding of the mechanics of financial transactions or whatever else. You do not gain any practical or working knowledge of those concepts which can and does create a very steep learning curve once employee in a related field. I just don't think you come out of there as a prepackaged titan as OP was insinuating.

The energy management program at UofC was just being started when I graduated. I cannot speak to its credibility or success. I would hope that it would a strong program given the resources available locally to support such a major. During my time at the school, I was very involved with things like ICBC and the now defunct TSE club. The network building is where I found the most benefit, as did you. Aside from a few key courses, you don't learn a lot.

With your experience, the class itself wasn't what got you your job, it was the contacts from it. Which I think is an excellent use of the program. However, even the most challenging of finance classes at the school serve to introduce only the most basic of concepts which are important, but you're not ready to conquer the world as OP feels he is.

borN

01-10-2014, 12:50 PM

Originally posted by busdepot
I do agree that the purpose of going to school was to secure future employment and make the right contacts to get there. While there are certainly some valuable things that could be taken from the B.Comm program at UofC, the skill-set you leave with is primitive at best. Aside from a few senior level finance or accounting classes which essentially serve to get your feet wet, you only gain a very simple and conceptual understanding of the mechanics of financial transactions or whatever else. You do not gain any practical or working knowledge of those concepts which can and does create a very steep learning curve once employee in a related field. I just don't think you come out of there as a prepackaged titan as OP was insinuating.

The energy management program at UofC was just being started when I graduated. I cannot speak to its credibility or success. I would hope that it would a strong program given the resources available locally to support such a major. During my time at the school, I was very involved with things like ICBC and the now defunct TSE club. The network building is where I found the most benefit, as did you. Aside from a few key courses, you don't learn a lot.

With your experience, the class itself wasn't what got you your job, it was the contacts from it. Which I think is an excellent use of the program. However, even the most challenging of finance classes at the school serve to introduce only the most basic of concepts which are important, but you're not ready to conquer the world as OP feels he is.

Fair enough - I can see where you're coming from. Yeah, you really do come out into industry without much to offer. It definitely seems like the OP is in the wrong frame of mind - my post was more referring to all the bashers of 'the Haskayne experience'. I think, as someone else previously stated, the more you challenge yourself in uni by taking things like ICBC and courses off the beaten track, the more you'll gain as opposed to the taking the clear cut course structure that's recommended.