After a successful trial at last year’s AAPG ACE meeting in Long Beach, CA with Suez Canal capturing the top video prize:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qJuxdTVhak

http://www.aapg.org/explorer/2012/06jun/wwwupdate0612.cfm

The AAPG Student Chapter Committee would like to announce that the 2013 AAPG Student Chapter YouTube competition is now underway and will award $1,000 for the top video, $300 for 2^nd and $100 for 3^rd place.

To participate please have your chapter create a video and upload it to YouTube. Then send the link to Mike Mlynek at AAPG mikem@aapg.org

Rules:

Videos should highlight your Chapter and your activities.

Videos should not be longer than 3 minutes.

Only 1 video entry per AAPG Student Chapter.

Each member of the Student Chapter Committee will be allowed to vote

Also one at large vote will be determined by “popular vote” determined by number of likes of the video once posted to the AAPG Student Programs Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/AAPGStudentPrograms

A second popular vote will be taken from number of views and/or likes of the video on YouTube.

Deadline to submit your video for consideration: April 30^th.

For a little inspiration and to see last year’s video please check them out at: http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL07246E9E5EAA49FC

Awards to be given at the Student Chapter Reception at the AAPG Annual meeting in Pittsburgh, PA on Monday May 20^th at the Westin Hotel from 6:00 -8:00 p.m.

Good luck.

****NOTE CHANGE IN APPLICATION DEADLINE****  now 1 June 2013

The Stephen E. Laubach Structural Diagenesis Research Award Fund promotes research combining structural geology and diagenesis, and curriculum development in structural diagenesis. The donors believe multidisciplinary approaches often reveal new insights into long-standing problems and expose productive avenues for enquiry. To help promote the cross disciplinary emphasis of this annual award, the Sedimentary Geology and Structural Geology & Tectonics Divisions have been designated to jointly select the recipient.

Graduate students, postgraduate and faculty level researchers are eligible.

This award addresses the rapidly growing recognition that fracturing, cement precipitation and dissolution, evolving rock mechanical properties and other structural diagenetic processes can govern recovery of resources and sequestration of material in deeply buried, diagenetically altered and fractured sedimentary rocks. The award highlights the growing need to break down disciplinary boundaries between structural geology and sedimentary petrology, exemplified by the work of Dr. Stephen Laubach and colleagues.

Please visit http://rock.geosociety.org/sed/SGD_Awards2.html#Laubach for application instructions.

Competed applications should be sent to:  christie.rowe@mcgill.ca by 1 June 2013.

If you haven’t already registered for ACE 2013 do it here

1. IBA Short Course

If you are interested in possibly competing in the IBA program in the future and want a jump start the IBA prep class may be for you. The IBA class will be on Sunday May 19^th from 8:30 a.m. -2:30 p.m. in room 306/307 of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center

How to sign up: To sign up for this exciting course taught by Bob Stewart of ExxonMobil which prepares students and professors that may like to participate in the IBA competition for 2014, please email Mike at mikem@aapg.org in the subject line put “IBA Class” so I can easily find your message. Respond ASAP as there is no cost to attend and space is limited to 45 participants. If you are interested in the IBA program make sure and attend this event.

In the course, we will explore concepts, methods, and tools of petroleum geoscience, which we use on a day-to-day basis to make exploration decisions in the energy industry.  We will focus on how we make decisions with limited information, identify critical information in light of multiple scenarios, evaluate risk vs. uncertainty, maximize the value we get from integrated teams, etc.  To investigate these topics, we will generate play element maps, play summary charts, cross-sections, and play summary maps. The course will combine lecture materials and hands-on exercises, with an emphasis on the exercises.  The course will focus on an applied problem in basin exploration.  Students will make play maps, evaluate play risk, bid on prospective acreage. Throughout the course we will stress the importance of integration across disciplines and scales, focusing on the interaction and expression of fundamental basin formation, fill, and evolution processes from regional to basin and play to prospect scale. These discussions will include consideration of plate motion, paleogeography, stratigraphy, structural deformation, sedimentology, rock properties, subsurface imaging, burial history, and fluid migration.

2. You can sign up to participate in the YP Meet and Greet when registering:

Date: Sunday, 19 May

Time: 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.

Location: David L. Lawrence Convention Center

Make plans to participate in the annual YP Meet & Greet event. This is a great networking opportunity and serves as a link to connect students and professionals at ACE. The Young Professionals Committee oversees this event, pairing students and young professionals with experienced AAPG attendees to guide newcomers through the convention experience. Participants will have the opportunity to be introduced prior to the Opening Session on Sunday afternoon.

Professionals may be paired with one or more students/young professionals. Experienced attendees will then go to the Opening Session with their group and are encouraged to show the students/young professionals around the Exhibition Hall floor during the Icebreaker Reception, introducing them to other AAPG members and their colleagues.

This program grows in popularity every year with positive reviews from all who participate.

3. IBA Awards Ceremony

Also on Sunday you can attend the IBA Awards Ceremony which will be held at 3:00 p.m. at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center Spirit of Pittsburgh Ballroom (3^rd) floor. Come see the IBA finalist teams and learn the final results. If you are a sponsoring company I would like to encourage you to watch the team presentations on Friday and Saturday (May 17^th – 18^th) if you need additional information email: mikem@aapg.org.

You’ve read about it, heard stories about and perhaps even seen online videos of the Imperial Barrel Award (IBA) award presentations — but this year you can experience the excitement yourself.

The live announcement of the winning teams for this year’s IBA competition will be open for all to attend and will take place in the Spirit of Pittsburgh Ballroom, just prior to the Opening Session and Awards Ceremony.

AAPG/AAPG Foundation’s IBA Program is an annual competition in evaluating prospective basins, featuring teams of the top geoscience graduate students in the world — all of whom have qualified for the finals by first winning IBA Region and Section competitions.

The exciting presentation will include an introduction of the IBA program and of all of the teams, plus recognition of the many generous sponsors who make the program possible. It all leads to the grand finale: the announcement of this year’s winners.

Come help us celebrate the accomplishments of these hard-working students, see which teams win scholarship funds for their geosciences departments and applaud the school that leaves Pittsburgh with the title of IBA Champion.

4. Immediately following the IBA Awards the AAPG ACE 2013 Opening Session begins:

Date: Sunday, 19 May

Time: 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

Location: Spirit of Pittsburgh Ballroom

Fee: Included with registration

This year, you can be part of history! The opening session of this year’s AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition will reflect the history and significance of the Association’s first-ever annual meeting in Pittsburgh and pay tribute to AAPG’s first meeting in the Eastern Section since 1986.

This year’s opening session will be a multi-media celebration that looks back at Pittsburgh’s and the Eastern Section’s role in the history and development of the profession, as well as looking forward in anticipation of the future that will be “Making the Play With Technology.” It’s the perfect way to start your Pittsburgh ACE experience — and it’s a presentation you won’t want to miss.

General Chair Mike Canich will serve as the master of ceremonies and will offer the official welcome to ACE 2013 — as well as a reminder of the city’s and region’s importance to the industry. Yes, you can be sure that the region’s game-changing shale plays will be an important part of the presentation.

He’ll be joined by AAPG President Ted Beaumont, who will deliver a presidential address that speaks to the critical era and enormous potential that both the profession and AAPG are experiencing.

And the highlight of it all will be the annual awards ceremony, featuring AAPG vice president-Regions, Stuart D. Harker, when the best of AAPG will be honored in a fast-moving, colorful and entertaining session.

5. During the exhibition be sure to stop by the Chevron sponsored Student and Faculty Lounge, which will be located in the exhibition hall connected to the AAPG Center.

Complimentary refreshments are provided each day during exhibition hours. The lounge functions as the AAPG Student Headquarters during the meeting offering students and faculty their own place to meet with fellow students, faculty and industry professionals to develop career contacts and lifelong friendships. While you are there be sure to thank Chevron for all of their financial support including the sponsorship of student member dues and the newly created Student Chapter Faculty Advisor Sponsorship.

6. AAPG Bookstore and General Store:

Visit the AAPG Bookstore and take advantage of member pricing on books, and digital publications as well as an opportunity to pay your member dues. While browsing the books be sure to pick up your AAPG apparel and gifts. Sales proceeds of General Store items benefit the AAPG Student Chapters working in the Store. If you are part of a Student Chapter you should consider working in the General Store: http://aapg.informz.net/admin31/templates/Template_Html.asp?MFQID=9948539&test=t

7. Student Career Seminar

Date: Monday, 20 May

Time: 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

Location: Westin Hotel, Butler East/West Room

Fee: $10 –sign up during the registration process

Limit: 64 people –currently still spots remaining (4/3/13)

This workshop is designed to assist students and recent graduates in their employment search endeavors within the petroleum and environmental industries by better understanding the activities of day-to-day life in these industries and also offers specific job search strategies and tips for finding that perfect job. There will be a brief introduction to the table discussion leaders, who are industry managers and technical professionals, followed by a series of 30-minute facilitated roundtables where students are encouraged to ask questions of the discussion leaders. The discussion leaders will rotate amongst the tables, maximizing interaction between industry professionals and students. Students may also choose to sign up for a resume review with an industry recruiter during this workshop.  The resume review offers practical guidelines for resume development and interviewing tips.

A sampling of roundtable discussion topics includes: the outlook on current industry staffing needs, recruiting trends, what to expect from industry employment, and how to find a mentor. This workshop is sponsored by the AAPG/SEG Student Expo Committee, which organizes expos and job fairs across the country at various times of the year. Information about these expos can be found at www.studentexpo.info.   This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about careers in the industry and meet potential recruiters.

8. AAPG/SEPM Student Reception

Date: Monday, 20 May

Time: 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Location: Westin Hotel, Allegheny Ballrooms II & III

All students and faculty attending the convention are invited to the AAPG/SEPM Student Reception. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and refreshments while mingling with your peers. An introduction will be given by an ExxonMobil representative before the top three poster authors from the Shell sponsored “Selected Academic Research Topics: Student Presentations” receive awards.

The Jim Hartman Service to Students Award will be conveyed to AAPG recipient(s) who have contributed exceptional service to AAPG’s Student Programs. The awards program closes with the presentation of the Schlumberger sponsored Outstanding Student Chapter Awards along with the recognition of the Imperial Barrel Award teams.

9. Convention Volunteers Needed

Students and Young Professionals — sign up to be a volunteer at ACE and earn some cash and other great benefits. Volunteers are needed in the following areas: Judges Room, Opening Session, Oral Sessions, Poster Sessions and Registration.

Here’s what you’ll get: $25 for every four hours worked: attendee amenity, Program Book and CD-ROM of abstracts.

Select the day(s) and time(s) you are available, as well as the location(s) you prefer, when you register online. If you prefer to use the printed registration form select “I want to be a student volunteer” and you will be contacted for your preferences. To receive benefits, volunteers must be either students or employees in the industry who are recent (2011-2012) graduates.

For more information email: Ray Follador, Volunteer Chair (geodawg@comcast.com)

10. Career Center

Dates: Monday, 20 May: 8:30 a.m.– 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, 21 May: 8:30 a.m.– 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, 22 May: 8:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

306/307 at the Convention Center

The Career Center in Pittsburgh is an AAPG benefit for both employers and job seekers. The room is conveniently accessible to the public and meeting registration is not required to utilize this service. The AAPG Career Center helps job seekers and employers connect in an environment specifically designed for petroleum geosciences professionals, saving them both time and effort. A full-time attendant will be in the room to answer questions and assist with scheduling interviews, as well as posting resumes and jobs.

Job seekers — bring your resume to post to the Career Center bulletin board at no charge. AAPG members also have the option of posting their resumes online. Employers — post jobs on our bulletin board and contact us to reserve a table to meet with job seekers or share promotional material about your company. Those with paid postings to our online Career Center have access to our online resume database as well. Companies may reserve half-day, full-day or all 3 days, at no cost. Table must be staffed by your company representative; limited space available.

To reserve your space or for more information contact:

Vicki Beighle, AAPG Member Services Manager vbeighle@aapg.org

11. Post-Convention Field Trip 8

AAPG Student Chapter (AAPG-SC) and Society for Sedimentary Geology (SEPM)

Stratigraphy and Depositional Environments of Middle to Late Devonian Natural Gas Reservoirs in the Central Pennsylvania Appalachian Basin: Marcellus, Burkett and Lockhaven Formations

Note: This one sells out fast folks so don’t be surprised if it is sold out (were still some spots on 4/3/13)

Dates: Wednesday, 22 May, 3:00 p.m.–Friday, 24 May 7:00 p.m. (Departs from and returns to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center)

Leaders: Daniel Kohl (Chevron North America, Moon Township, Pennsylvania), Rudy Slingerland and Courtney Swanson (The Pennsylvania State University, State College, Pennsylvania), and Bob Clarke (Consultant, Irving, Texas)

Fee: Graduate Students & Faculty Advisors only $50

Includes: Ground transportation, two nights’ lodging based on double occupancy, breakfast Thursday and Friday, lunch Thursday and Friday, dinner Wednesday and Thursday, refreshments, guidebook

Limit: 35 people

This field trip will examine the sedimentology and stratigraphy of world famous Appalachian Basin oil and gas reservoirs. First day of the trip will examine the lower portion of the Middle Devonian Marcellus Formation. These strata were deposited within a third order depositional sequence (~3 my duration), associated with the Mahantango Formation delta complex. We will examine the full spectrum of depositional environments associated with this sequence, from proximal deltaic sandstones, to the distal organic-rich mudstones and shales which are the target of unconventional production in the basin. Second day will examine the overlying Upper Devonian shale and sandstone reservoirs. The Burkett Member is an emerging unconventional shale gas reservoir in the basin, and exhibits many similarities to the underlying Marcellus Formation. The Lock Haven Formation is a conventional sandstone reservoir that has produced more than 55 billion cubic feet of gas in the Council Run Field, just a few miles west of the outcrop exposures.

Each day of this trip will begin by examining cores provided by the Penn State’s Appalachian Basin Black Shale Research Group (ABBSG), followed by a short drive to exposures of these formations in the central Pennsylvania Nittany Anticlinorium. Accommodations will be provided in State College, PA, within walking distance to The Pennsylvania State University.

11. Post-Convention Field Trip #14

http://www.aapg.org/pittsburgh2013/shortcourses2.cfm#ShortCourse14

A MUST ATTEND Short Course for AAPG YPs and Student Members

SC#14: Unconventional Workforce Assets –
Developing New Leaders in the Energy Industry

Thursday, 23 May 2013

Time is limited. Register now.

Whether you’re preparing for your first job or considering your next career move,  attend this short course to steer your career in the right direction for maximum payout.  Immediately following the short course, enjoy the networking social where career-enhancing discussions and  new relationships are waiting just for you.

Sign up NOW for Short Course #14 While Seats are Still Available.
Date: Thursday, 23 May
Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Westin Convention Center Hotel, Pittsburgh
Fee: Professionals $150; Students $50 (limited)
Includes: Continental breakfast, lunch, two coffee breaks, networking reception, and slides

Review Short Course Agenda

Review the Complete Description of Post-Convention Short Course #14

….Full Story

For a video of last years RMR please click on the image below.

The American Geosciences Institute is accepting applications for the 2012-2013 William L. Fisher Congressional Geoscience Fellowship. The successful candidate will spend 12 months (starting September 2012) in Washington, DC, working as a staff member in the office of a member of Congress or a congressional committee. The fellowship represents a unique opportunity to gain first-hand experience with the federal legislative process and make practical contributions to the effective and timely use of geoscientific knowledge on issues relating to the environment, resources, natural hazards, and federal science policy.

 Prospective applicants should have a broad geoscience background and excellent written and oral communications skills. Minimum requirements are a Master’s degree with at least three years of post-degree work experience or a Ph.D. at the time of appointment. Although prior experience in public policy is not necessary, a demonstrable interest in applying science to the solution of public problems is desirable. Applicants must be a member of one of AGI’s member societies (see list).

The fellowship carries an annual stipend of up to $65,000 plus allowances for health insurance, relocation, and travel. Additionally, the fellowship includes a possible two to four month extension.

 Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, statement of purpose and a  curriculum vitae and request three letters of reference. Candidates should ask three people to submit letters of reference through the online submission site. Deadline for submission of applications is February 1, 2012.

Please visit the AGI Fisher Fellows Webpage for more information and for a list with links of other geosciences societies that offer similar fellowships.

2.  2012 Geosciences and Policy Internships with AGI Government Affairs

AGI’s Government Affairs Program offers summer and semester internship opportunities for geoscience students (undergraduates or Masters students) with an interest in public policy and in how Washington impacts the geoscience community. Interns gain a first-hand understanding of the legislative process and the operation of executive branch agencies. They hone writing, research, and web publishing skills. Stipends for the interns are generously supported by AGI, the American Association of Petroleum Geologists and the American Institute of Professional Geologists Foundation.

The following links provide additional information on the internships and how to apply. Go to the links to submit an application online.

2012 AGI/AIPG Summer Internships
Apply by March 15 of internship year (Open for submission of applications on Nov 1 of previous year)

2012 AGI/AAPG Fall Semester Internships
Apply by April 15 of internship year (Open for submission of applications on Nov 1 of previous year)

2013 AGI/AAPG Spring Semester Internships
Apply by October 15 of previous year (Open for submission of applications on April 30 of previous year) 

Please send any comments or requests for information to AGI Government Affairs Program at govt@agiweb.org.

3. Another program we have received information for is the 34th International Congress (IGC) Students and Early Career Scientists Travel Grant and Mentoring Program.

 For more information please visit: http://www.geosociety.org/flyers/IGC_Grant2012.pdf

A record of relevant courses and grades (students only),

Two letters of recommendation, and a

Cover letter addressing your reasons for attending the meeting and a prioritized budget of expenses.

Many chapters still haven’t turned in their reports, so the answer could be NO.

L. Austin Weeks Grant 

The deadline for Student Chapters to apply for the L. Austin Weeks grant is quickly approaching: December 15, 2011. For more information and to apply please visit: http://students.aapg.org/chaptergrant.cfm

 Student Chapter Book Gift

 AAPG Student Chapters that have yet to apply for the Student Chapter Book Gift have until December 15, 2011 to have their forms turned in. Active Chapters are eligible every third year.  New chapters can receive the benefit right away.  For more information and to apply please visit: http://students.aapg.org/rebates.cfm#bookgift.cfm

 Grants-in-Aid 

It is also a good time to prepare a complete an application for AAPG Foundation Grants. The deadline for applications is January 31, 2012.

 Grants are for graduate students in amounts from $500-$3,000.

 For more information and to apply please visit: http://foundation.aapg.org/gia/

Reports

The bylaws require the student chapter to submit two reports, one mid-year and another at the end of the calendar year. These reports are vital to AAPG in that they provide AAPG with its only tangible data regarding the success of the program. The Chapter’s reports keep the Chapter eligible for many of the benefits to having an AAPG Student Chapter and are what the Student Chapter Committee references in order to decide the Outstanding Student Chapters each year. It is preferable that the Chapters report be emailed to students@aapg.org, as a Word or PDF attachment. However reports may also be mailed or faxed to AAPG HQ.

A report is defined as a document containing:

1. A listing of the officers of the chapter (AAPG member number, name and email addresses)
2. Faculty advisor and any co-advisors (AAPG member number, name and email addresses)
3. A member list for the Chapter (AAPG member number and name)
4. A report on activities the chapter has engaged in since their last report was filed.
5. A brief financial summary of the Chapter’s usage of funds.

All reports for the year, including the End of Year Reports(activities from July-December), are due by the deadline of Dec15th.

We have received the following university’s Mid-Year Reports for the activities from January-June (listed in alphabetical order). If your chapter is not listed here we have not recieved your report. 

Ahmadu Bello University

Ain Shams University

Alexandria University

American University of Beirut

Auburn University

Brigham Young University-Idaho

California State University, Fresno

Colorado School of Mines

Concord University

Delft University of Technology

Eotvos Lorand University

Ghent University

Idaho State University

Imperial College of Science, Technology & Medicine

Indian School of Mines University, Dhanbad

Institut Francais du Petrole (IFP)

Institute of Technology – Bandung

Institute of Technology Sepuluh Nopember

Institute Polytechnic LaSalle Beauvais

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso

Makerere University

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Obafemi Awolowo University

Oklahoma State University

Rice University

Santa Barbara City College

Southern Methodist University

Stephen F. Austin State University

Trisakti University

University of Aberdeen

University of Akron

University of Alabama

University of Diponegoro

University of Gadjah Mada

University of Ibadan

University of Ilorin

University of Indonesia

University of Iowa

University of Jos

University of Kansas

University of Karachi

University of Lagos

University of Leeds

University of Leoben

University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur

University of Manchester

University of Miskolc

University of Montpellier II

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

University of Nigeria, Nsukka

University of Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran”

University of Sindh

University of Stavanger

University of the State of Rio de Janeiro

University of Utah

University of Western Ontario

West Virginia University

Zagazig University

Students and Companies:

The deadlines for registration for many of the AAPG Student Expo events are fast approaching so register today.

 Students – now is your opportunity to meet/network/ and hopefully interview with a number of companies at one time.

 Companies – now is your opportunity to find top notch talent from around the country and in some cases from around the world at one, some, or all of our Expo events.

1. AAPG/SEG Student Expo

September 8-9, 2011
George R. Brown Convention Center
Houston, Texas

The Student Expo is a unique tool for linking geoscience students with industry recruiters. Students benefit by presenting their work, networking, and interviewing with multiple employers while companies enjoy cost-efficient recruiting from a diverse and talented student population.

Activities at the two-day Student Expo include field trips, short courses, an open poster session and Icebreaker, followed by a full day of poster presentations and interview.  Students submit their resumes and poster abstracts in advance of the meeting, which allows companies to identify candidates with specific skills.  There will be an informal reception where poster awards will be presented. 

DEADLINE FOR STUDENT REGISTRATION to have your resume and/or abstract in the book for companies is August 29th, 2011. 

 Visit the Student Expo website: Click here.  

2. AAPG Eastern Section Student Summit and Student Job Quest

  September 24th, 2011, Arlington, Virginia 

 Held in conjunction with AAPG’s Eastern Section Meeting. 

 Added this year is the Eastern Section Student Summit  ES Student Summit
[scribd id=63256933 key=key-1hxg6dpszujhi4moxy98 mode=list]

 For more information click on graphic below.

3. Rocky Mountain Rendezvous

The 2011 Rocky Mountain Rendezvous of Geoscience Students and Employers (RMR) job fair is scheduled for Sept 30-Oct 1 on the campus of the University of Wyoming (UW).  Sponsored b y the AAPG and SEG this job fair is a great place to network and find a job. We in the Dept of Geology and Geophysics at UW understand students and how important getting a job is.  We work really hard to help students secure interviews with recruiters and we pride ourselves on providing lots of “face time” between students and recruiters with field trips, short courses, banquets, poster sessions and receptions.  Generous industry support allows us to offer significant cash awards to poster presenters for honorable mention as well as 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd place. We also offer limited support for travel to the RMR.  For more info and t learn how to register, please go to the RMR website at:

http://aapg.gg.uwyo.edu/RockyMtnRendezvous/home.html

Our goal is not to be the biggest job fair, but to be the best at providing students and recruiters opportunities to connect.  Come be a part of our 10^th anniversary RMR.

 Randi S. Martinsen 

4. AAPG/SEG West Coast Student Expo

October 13-15, 2011 Northridge, CA

The AAPG-SEG West Coast Student Expo is set for 13-15 October 2011. The venue will be the California State University Northridge Student Union. Check our web site�
http://www.csun.edu/geology/aapg-seg.htm for updates and additional event information.   

For additional information and to register please click here! 

The Petro-Ed courses feature robust graphics, simulations and automated, interactive learning modules.  They are completely self-paced and can be used as a supplement to existing courses.  For links to the full catalogue and to see more samples of the animations, visit the course descriptions and links below, or click the link:  http://www.aapg.org/education/online/petroed.cfm

This is a wonderful opportunity for AAPG chapters and student members.  While it is not unusual to find open-access learning objects on the web, such as quizzes, interactive maps, interactive instructional diagrams, full lessons that develop knowledge and skills can be quite expensive, particularly in areas such as petroleum exploration and development.  Qualifying student chapters will have access to three courses at no cost.

Scholarships for three separate online interactive learning courses are available for the following online, interactive module-based courses, which are completely self-guided, with automated reviews and quizzes. There is no instructor interaction, which makes them an ideal complement to traditional classroom-based courses, and an effective supplement to course texts and lab materials.

Apply for the Scholarship

Please send an e-mail to Dr. Susan Nash (snash@aapg.org), Director of Education and Professional Development, AAPG.  In your e-mail, please provide responses to the following items:

1.  Name / Institution / contact information (address / email)

2.  What is the name of your AAPG chapter?

3.  What kinds of online learning does your university’s geosciences program currently use?

4.  How would your student chapter use the software licenses if they are awarded to you?

In addition to keeping in touch and providing suggestions about how to use the license, we will interview the winning chapters and feature photos of members and leadership (along with their faculty sponsor) on the AAPG Learn! Blog.

Descriptions of the Courses

Basic Principles of Petroleum

http://ils.techno-media.com/SITES/petroed_2010/?unitid=BPP

This course is designed for students who require a basic understanding of the petroleum industry to perform their jobs. It provides an easy-to-understand introduction to the basics of upstream and downstream activities. Students will learn how hydrocarbon deposits are formed, explored for, and produced. Next, students will learn how crude oil and gas are converted from a raw material to finished product and delivered to markets, or traded worldwide, as a commodity.

Geology of Petroleum

Exploration for Oil and Gas

Drilling Operations Basics

Production of Oil and Gas

Petroleum Refining Process

Transportation, Distribution and Delivery of Oil and Gas

Marketing Petroleum Products

Introduction to Well Control

http://ils.techno-media.com/SITES/petroed_2010/?unitid=IWC_IADC

The premise of Introduction to Well Control computer based training course is that every member of the rig crew should understand the fundamental principles of well control in order to obtain the highest degree of safety during drilling operations. This self-paced interactive multimedia program takes a rig hand through the basic concepts of well control in an easy to understand, straight-forward manner. 3D animations, graphics and other visual imagery are used to quickly communicate complex subject material to manpower with diverse technical backgrounds and language skills.

Well Control Equipment

Units of Measure

Hydrostatic Pressure

Pressure Balance

Causes of Kicks

Controlling the Well

Restoring the Well

Oil Well Drilling

http://ils.techno-media.com/SITES/petroed_2010/?unitid=OWD

Oil Well Drilling introduces the techniques and technologies involved in drilling oil wells. The course is intended for personnel new to the oil and gas industry, specifically including those in the administrative and support services as well as those in the field. Oilwell Drilling provides a firm foundation knowledge of oilfield practices and terminology that can prove invaluable in every sector of the industry. This course comprises ten computer-based training modules, each representing two hours of instruction and exercises.

Introduction to Rig Types and Basic Drill String Components

Basic Blowout Prevention Equipment Components

Introduction to Drilling Fluids

Mud Circulation and Treating Equipment

Hoisting Equipment

Rotating Equipment, Mast, and Substructure

Pipe Handling

Casing and Cementing

Well Logging, Mud Logging, and Drill Stem Testing

Power Systems and Instrumentation

I am often told by students attending an AAPG Annual meeting that there is just so much stuff going on that they are sure they are missing stuff, so what should they make sure they do not miss. I answer this question in some form or another multiple times during a meeting, and sometimes many of the events have already passed, so I thought I would use this forum to share my thoughts with you before you come to the meeting. Also I am going to alert you to some opportunities that as I write this are still available to you. Oh and if you have not yet registered for ACE 2011 in Houston. Make it happen here.  So without further delay.

The Top 10 Student events at the AAPG Annual meeting ACE -2011 in Houston for Students and Young Professionals.

1. AAPG/SEPM Student Chapter Field Trip

Pre-Convention Field Trip 4 AAPG Student Chapter (AAPG-SC/SEPM)
Was Hurricane Ike the Big One? Effects and Aftermath of a Giant Storm

To take a look at the trips offered click here

Date: Saturday, 9 April, 8:00 a.m.– 8:00 p.m.
Leaders: Chris Barker and LaRell Nielson (Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, Texas) and Robert Clarke (Consultant, Irving, Texas)
Fee: Students/Faculty $25
Includes: Transportation, lunch, refreshments, guidebook
Limit: 35 people (students and faculty only)

2. IBA short course/Preparation class.

When: Sunday, April 10^th from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Where: George R. Brown Convention Center  room 360 A&D.

What: In the course, we will explore concepts, methods, and tools of petroleum geoscience, which we use on a day-to-day basis to make exploration decisions in the energy industry.  We will focus on how we make decisions with limited information, identify critical information in light of multiple scenarios, evaluate risk vs. uncertainty, maximize the value we get from integrated teams, etc.  To investigate these topics, we will generate play element maps, play summary charts, cross-sections, and play summary maps. The course will combine lecture materials and hands-on exercises, with an emphasis on the exercises.  The course will focus on an applied problem in basin exploration.  Students will make play maps, evaluate play risk, bid on prospective acreage. Throughout the course we will stress the importance of integration across disciplines and scales, focusing on the interaction and expression of fundamental basin formation, fill, and evolution processes from regional to basin and play to prospect scale. These discussions will include consideration of plate motion, paleogeography, stratigraphy, structural deformation, sedimentology, rock properties, subsurface imaging, burial history, and fluid migration.

How to sign up: To sign up for this exciting course taught by Bob Stewart of ExxonMobil which prepares students and professors that may like to participate in the IBA competition for 2012, please email Mike at mikem@aapg.org in the subject line put “IBA Class” so I can easily find your message. Respond ASAP as there is no cost to attend and space is limited to 60 participants. If you are interested in the IBA program make sure and attend this event.

3. Student /Professional Meet N-Greet:

The AAPG Young Professionals Committee is again sponsoring a Student – Professional Meet-N-Greet on Sunday, April 10 at the Annual Convention in Houtson, TX from 2 p.m. thru the Opening Session and Icebreaker.  Please see this page for additional information:

http://www.aapg.org/houston2011/meetngreet.cfm

4. Opening Session and Awards Ceremony:

Sunday April 10^th from 4:00-5:00 p.m. in the George Bush Grand Ballroom at the George R. Brown Convention Center. For those of you participating in the Student/Professional Meet N-Greet you will be attending this with your assigned professional. Don’t miss this brief yet powerful ceremony as the best of AAPG are honored.

5. Student and Faculty Lounge:

During exhibition hours at the exhibition hall connected to the AAPG Center.

Be sure to stop by this lounge area sponsored by Chevron. Complimentary refreshments are provided each day during exhibition hours. The lounge functions as the AAPG Student Headquarters during the meeting offering students and faculty their own place to meet with fellow students, faculty and industry professionals to develop career contacts and lifelong friendships. While you are there be sure to thank Chevron for all of their financial support including the sponsorship of student member dues.

6. AAPG Bookstore and General Store:

Visit the AAPG Bookstore and take advantage of member pricing on books, and digital publications. You can also pay your member dues and pick up your 2011 Annual Abstracts CD-ROM here. While browsing the books be sure to pick up your AAPG apparel and gifts. Sales proceeds of General Store items benefit the AAPG Student Chapters working in the Store. 

7. AAPG/SEG Student Expo Committee – Career Workshop:

Monday April 11^th from 3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. in the Hilton Americas Hotel in room 335C.

Resume review from 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.

This workshop will consist of a few topics of discussion to assist students and recent graduates in their quest for employment in the petroleum and environmental industries by better understanding the activities of day-to-day life in the energy/environmental industries as well as specific job search strategies and tips for finding that perfect job. This discussion will focus on how to gain employment, the outlook on current staffing needs, recruiting trends, and what companies are looking for in future employees.

From 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. a representative from Kelley Services will be available to answer questions and provide useful and practical guidelines including resumé development and interviewing tips. This workshop is sponsored by the AAPG/SEG Student Expo Committee, which organizes expos and job fairs across the country at various times of the year. Information about these can be found at www.studentexpo.info.

This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about careers in the industry and meet potential recruiters. Currently there are still seats available, so sign up when you register or add it to your registration. Also some seats open up from no-shows, so if you did not sign up, bring $10 and see if you can get a seat.

8. Career Center:

Monday April 11^th 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Tuesday April 12^th 8:30 a.m. -5:00 p.m., Wednesday April 13^th 8:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Located in Room 330 A of the George R. Brown Convention Center.

Stop by and connect to employment opportunities. Bring along your resume or job listings (if you are an employer) and the Career Center volunteers will assist you in posting it to the AAPG Career Center website for maximum industry exposure as well as the onsite bulletin boards within the room.

9. AAPG/SEPM Student Reception:

Monday April 11^th from 5:30 p.m. -8:00 p.m. at the Hilton Americas Hotel -Ballroom of the Americas A/B (Level 2).

Make sure you don’t miss this one!

All students and faculty attending the convention are invited to the AAPG/SEPM Student Reception.

Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and refreshments while mingling with your peers. A talk given by an ExxonMobil representative is scheduled before the top three poster authors from the Shell-sponsored “Selected Academic Research Topics: Student Presentations” receive awards. The Jim Hartman Service to Students Award will be conveyed upon an AAPG member who has contributed exceptional service to AAPG’s Student Programs. The awards program will close with the presentation of the Schlumberger-sponsored Outstanding Student Chapter Awards along with the Imperial Barrel Award prizes. Be sure to visit and network with all of the VIP’s and give a personal thank you to all of the company representatives that sponsor and make many of AAPG’s student programs possible.

10. Additional Opportunities, classes, field trips.

These 9 events listed above are by no means all of the great events, programs or opportunities to take advantage of while in Houston but this list should give you a good head start.

To learn of more of the Student Activities planned for Houston check out :

http://www.aapg.org/houston2011/StudentActivities.cfm

If you have questions, comments or want to sign up for the IBA prep course be sure to email me.

This is a key way for your Student Chapter to earn some money while attending ACE 2011.

As for the sign up form it should be in this post or arriving shortly via email to Student Chapter Presidents and Advisors.

For more information on this program please review this story from a past issue of the AAPG Explorer.

General Store 2011