In response to the growing energy industries in the tri-state area, West Liberty University's Resource Corp. kicked off a new coal and natural gas industry initiative known as the Institute for Energy and Commerce on Tuesday at the university's Highlands Center.
During a press conference at the center, WLU President Robin Capehart said the initiative is in response to the "rapidly changing economic world in which we live."
Capehart said the program will continue to fulfill the university's role in two ways: providing a quality educational experience and serving as a resource for the community, the region and the state by producing research, programs and initiatives that will "advance the knowledge base and contribute to the economic needs" of the area.
"The continuing growth of the coal industry and the rapid growth of the natural gas industry have created both questions and opportunities," Capehart said. "The ever-increasing need to pursue energy independence as a nation requires careful deliberation and a vigorous discussion of the issues surrounding the energy industry - as well as the intellectual preparation of individuals, who can meet the critical need for leadership in the future." He added the institute will take a leadership role in conducting timely and thoughtful research on issues surrounding the role of the energy industry in the economic future of the state and country. That may result in specific new educational programs at the university geared toward jobs in management, safety, engineering and other opportunities available in the energy fields.
The Institute for Energy and Commerce will operate out of West Liberty's Highlands' location and will be organized and operated by the WLU Research Corp. under the direction of Jim Shaffer, vice president for grants management at WLU.
Also, Michael Hicks, director of the Center for Business and Economic Research and a professor of economics in the Miller College of Business at Ball State University, has agreed to serve as a visiting scholar and a distinguished research fellow.
Chris Hamilton, senior vice president of the West Virginia Coal Association, will serve as an advisor and as chairman of the Institute's Industry Council.
"A lot of good things are going on in the energy field, and West Liberty's reach extends not only in West Virginia but into Ohio and Pennsylvania as a formidable energy alliance," Hamilton said. "It's fitting that West Liberty takes on the leadership role."