One of the leading industrial training colleges in the United States has welcomed a funding boost as it looks to meet growing demand for skilled workers in the Texas oil and gas industry.

In a statement released by the Kilgore College, it was confirmed that the Longview Economic Development Corp has provided a $200,000 grant for the construction of new facilities aimed at enabling students with on-site oil and gas training.

This money comes on top of additional funding from businesses working within the Texas energy industry, and business leaders are confident that such initiatives will go a long way towards bridging the existing skills gap.

Richard Andrews, president of the LEDCO board, commented: "The industrial community and some of our oil and gas companies have said there is a shortage of industrial maintenance personnel.

"That shortage is expected to continue well into the future," he added, speaking to the Texan News Journal.

The news comes as the price of crude in the US rises amid fears that Tropical Storm Gustav will hit production platforms in the Gulf of Mexico.

Oil & Gas Directory: Training & Development