Hands-on training key for SaskEnergy's Operations Technicians

SaskEnergy's Operations Technicians don't have “customer service” in their job titles, but it's still an important part of their daily work!

“My favourite thing about this role is working with customers and answering their questions,” says Operations Technician Jordan Bergsveinson.

A former SaskEnergy Customer Service Representative, Jordan recently completed two years in our Operations Technician Qualifying Position (OTQP) as part of her training.

Located in communities across the province, Technicians support the daily operation of SaskEnergy’s natural gas system. From installing new services, to emergency response and gas line repairs, to customer service appointments, Operations Technicians are key to the delivery of safe, reliable service.

Like Jordan, fellow former OTQP Keagan Coleman was drawn to the role's customer focus.

“I was interested in the customer aspect of the job,” says Keagan, who has a background in the oil and gas sector and is now an Operations Technician in the Saskatoon area. “I enjoy working with people every day and providing a service for the customer.”

SaskEnergy’s 26-month OTQP training program helps develop successful Operations Technician applicants.

“The program teaches how to do the job safely and efficiently,” explains Nick Anderson with SaskEnergy’s Training department. “The training combines classroom learning with hands-on field work. Our instructors are experienced Technicians and have a ton of knowledge that's critical to the program.”

Six training modules cover everything from gas safety and metering to line hit response, and regulator station operation.

“Each module combines the best of both settings,” says Brandon Acorn, an Operations Technician and one of the OTQP training program instructors. “Trainees take what they learn in the classroom and put it into practice, under supervision. They also take their experiences in the field back into the classroom to support group learning.”

Along the way, participants must pass both written and practical exams.

“There’s a lot to learn in a relatively short amount of time,” says Keagan, a former Operations Assistant and Utility Operator with SaskEnergy. “The classroom slows it down and focuses on the more technical aspects of the equipment and jobs. The field time allows you to put that into practice alongside experienced Technicians.”

The in-house training helps to set them up for success once they transition to their role as an Operations Technician. The program gives participants a taste of the work they'll be expected to perform in the field, which can vary greatly. Operations Technicians help install gas lines, locate and repair leaks, and respond to potential customer issues.

“As they progress, their responsibilities increase and they can perform some jobs on their own,” Brandon explains. “The goal is for them to have more tools, more capabilities and more confidence at the end of each module.”

SaskEnergy Operations and Training teams regularly review and update the training content with new processes, equipment and technology. 

“Expectations of the program are high because the stakes are high,” Keagan says. “Technicians have to be able to think on their feet and perform under pressure in the field every day. We also need to be knowledgeable and professional, as we’re often the face of the company with customers.”

Eighteen months after completing the OTQP training program, Keagan is thriving in his Operations Technician role.

“If you’ve ever had an interest in working on SaskEnergy’s Operations team, I highly recommend that you look into a role as a Technician,” he says. “This is a very rewarding and fulfilling career, and SaskEnergy has built the program to help set you up for success, if you’re willing to learn and work hard.”

“I highly recommend to anyone that if they are thinking of being a Tech, do it,” agrees Jordan. “For me, it was the best decision I could have ever made!”