The Natural Gas Compression program is designed to prepare students for careers focused on the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of compression equipment used in the natural gas industry.
The curriculum emphasizes mechanical systems, electrical fundamentals, and hands-on maintenance practices. Students develop skills in hydraulics, small engine systems, pumps, compressors, mechanical drives, and motor control, along with industrial troubleshooting techniques required to diagnose and resolve equipment failures.
Additional training in programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and instrumentation supports modern compressor operations where monitoring and control systems are integrated into equipment performance.
Graduates are prepared to work as compression technicians responsible for equipment reliability, operational efficiency, and safe operation of compressor stations in field environments.
Academic advisor: Daniel Hall, (903) 693-1149, dhall@panola.edu
Semester I
Semester II
Semester III
Semester IV
HEMR 1370 is a capstone course.
Mission Statement
Natural Gas Compression graduates will:
- Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot compression equipment used in natural gas systems.
- Apply mechanical, electrical, and control system knowledge to diagnose equipment failures.
- Demonstrate proficiency in engines, compressors, and mechanical drives used in field operations.
- Utilize basic PLC and instrumentation systems to support compressor monitoring and performance.
- Maintain safe, efficient, and reliable compressor operations in field environments.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of industrial machinery mechanics, maintenance workers, and millwrights is projected to grow 13% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than average, with approximately 49,100 job openings each year. Growth is driven by increased automation and the need for skilled technicians to maintain and repair complex industrial equipment. Multi-skilled technicians with electrical and mechanical training are in particularly high demand.