Marcellus Shale Fuels Job Creation In Pa.

PITTSBURGH (NewsRadio 1020 KDKA) — Matt Pittzarella of Range Resources joined KDKA'S Robert Mangino to discuss the steady job growth within the Marcellus Shale industry.

"There's an enormous difference between the growth in the oil and gas industry and the normal private sector," said Pitzerella.

According to federal statistics, job growth in the oil and gas industry has increased by 40 percent over a six-year period, while jobs in the private sector have increased by 1 percent.

"This enormous boom that we've sustained over the years in oil and gas may have been the only thing that truly kept us out of falling into a true great depression as opposed to an extended recession," said Pitzerella.

Vice President of Policy and Communications at the Marcellus Shale Coalition, Steve Ford, sees more job opportunities being made available within the Marcellus Shale industry.

"As we continue to see Marcellus production maintain here in Pennsylvania there will be additional opportunities," said Ford.

In addition to technical jobs associated with Marcellus Shale, office jobs are available for job seekers as well.

"The impact of this industry is real, there consistent and sustainable overtime, not just in Pennsylvania but in the country as well," said York.

Listen to the Marcellus Shale hour every Wednesday and Saturday at 7 p.m. on NewsRadio 1020 KDKA.