The Marcellus Shale project in Pennsylvania will provide expansive job opportunities for local workers when it comes on stream.

Servicing the reserve will be the Marcellus Shale Education and Training Centre, which has robust growth plans that will help to secure local employment through the recession, the Times Leader reports.

Speaking to the paper, Jeffrey Lorson, an industrial technology specialist at the college, said that the centre will collaborate with the Penn State Cooperative Extension in order to ensure that students are provided with industry-focused training opportunities.

"The centre has the potential to provide very meaningful training options for local residents ... If the industry grows as we expect it to, there will be long-term career opportunities," added Stephen Rhoads, president of the Pennsylvania Oil & Gas Association.

Geology.com reports that interest in the Marcellus Shale area has peaked in recent years, with many experts identifying it as a potential "super giant" gas field that will play a key part in the future of the US energy industry.

5th Global Education and Training event for Oil and Gas: Exploration and Production