Petrochemicals Education and Training

Gain knowledge about working with basic petrochemicals and related equipment through training courses

By Deneatra Harmon
Those who work in the petrochemicals industry usually have backgrounds in chemistry and math or related fields. Petrochemical manufacturers pursue career paths as scientists, petrochemical engineers, process managers and more. The tasks of petrochemical engineers and suppliers revolve around separating and converting raw materials, oils and other petroleum-based substances into polymers, plastics and synthetic fibers, all of which are eventually made into consumer products such as heat-resistant plastic containers, food packaging, athletic gear or building insulation. Petrochemical manufacturers must take the training courses available to gain an understanding of the process from material to market. On-the-job training centers and laboratories cover the fundamentals of petrochemicals products, as well as how to process base chemicals into gasoline, polypropylenes into carpets and polystyrenes into electronics, to name a few.

In addition to obtaining a college degree in chemical engineering, chemistry or a related scientific field, get petrochemicals education and training by:

1. Consulting manuals or looking for on-site training courses on the basics and fundamentals of petrochemicals.

2. Training on the different types of petrochemical products and other materials to identify which are appropriate for your applications.

3. Considering OSHA-certified schools, training centers or other information that instructs on the safe handling of petrochemical products.

 

Learn all about the basics and fundamentals of petrochemicals

Entering the petrochemicals industry requires the knowledge of different types of chemicals, materials, equipment and other processes.
Try: View training course schedules at Honeywell's UOP Training Services. Topics cover process technology, engineering, plant economics and more. To learn about petrochemical products and other issues such as material compatibility, petrochemical manufacturer Emerson Process Management offers online learning resources and courses at its regional training centers. Get a basic career overview of petrochemical engineers' common tasks at the Schools in the USA website.

Identify different types of petrochemicals and their applications

Petrochemical engineers must determine which petrochemical products to use for various projects and applications.
Try: Petrochemical suppliers such as Shell Chemical feature reference literature and technical information. Petrochemical manufacturer BASF features publications and information about petrochemicals and other products. ICIS Training offers online courses in petrochemicals, including lessons on aromatics, polymers and base oils.

Find training centers that align with Occupational Safety & Health Administration standards

OSHA-certified schools and training centers can instruct on the safe handling of materials, equipment and chemicals such as petrochemicals.
Try: OSHA features a list of schools that provide petrochemicals education and training, as well as courses that cover chemical exposure, construction safety and ergonomics. Find videos and other information on petrochemicals and workplace safety at Emergency Film Group.

 

  • Manufacturing with a petrochemical product often requires certification to ensure quality customer service. Petrochemical engineers and manufacturers generally adhere to International Organization for Standardization (ISO 9001) requirements.