Tarleton State University students majoring in geological sciences had a chance to learn about recruitment opportunities from two ExxonMobil professionals during a presentation on Friday afternoon. Robin Borthwick, Geotechnical Skill Area Coordinator for ExxonMobil, and Shannon Strickland, a geotechnical advisor, provided students with information on the various careers the company offers to geoscience majors. Students who wish to start a career with ExxonMobil were advised to have a sound academic record, plenty of extracurricular activities, communication skills and the ability to thrive in a competitive environment. The presentation also provided application instructions and an overview of the function of geotechnicians, as well as a description of the day-to-day activities of an ExxonMobil employee. Strickland and Borthwick shared their own experiences as employees, as well as tips for prospective employees looking to get an edge in the business.

“This is the best job I’ve ever had because it’s all about people,” said Strickland as he described his position as an advisor for potential geotechnicians. “Once a person enters into a career as a geotechnician at Exxon Mobil, we have so much high-end training,” he said.

There will be plenty of high-end training happening at ExxonMobil’s new training center in Houston, which is currently set to open in 2014. The center will include a child development center, outdoor work areas, and state of the art training facilities to ensure the most conducive work environment possible for employees.

According to Strickland, Exxon Mobil is hoping to offset the attrition in the Geotech Skill Area that is expected to take place over the next few years by recruiting students early and helping them achieve success in a long-term commitment to the company.

According to Borthwick, “Career development embodies a combination of company needs, individual capabilities, and individual interests. ExxonMobil is looking for geotechnicians who are interested in a long-term career that will afford them many opportunities for personal growth and development. Career-development stages provide a link between the needs and values of the company and the factors related to individual advancement.”

Potential employees should posess technical knowledge, leadership and interpersonal competencies. ExxonMobil also offers reimbursement to employees who wish to pursue a Master’s Degree in geological sciences while furthering their career. Anyone interested in applying for a position as a geotechnician for Exxon Mobil can find more information at www.exxonmobil.com/apply or contact Shannon Strickland at (281)-654-1372 or [email protected].