As the energy sector evolves, the systems that transport oil and natural gas are becoming more complex, efficient, and technologically driven.
Recently, we met with Dr. Samuel Ameri, Chairperson and Professor in the Department of Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering at WVU’s Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources, to gain insight into the future of the midstream industry and how the university’s online Midstream Petroleum Engineering, M.S. program prepares graduates for a career in the industry.
This first-of-its-kind program works to prepare engineers to lead the next generation of infrastructure, innovation, and energy delivery.
Photo: Graphic featuring Dr. Samuel Ameri posing on the Evansdale campus
This program is specifically focused on midstream engineering. For someone who isn't familiar with the field, what does that mean? What industry needs were Statler looking to meet when creating this program?
The best way to describe it is that midstream engineering connects production to delivery for end users. When you look at the petroleum industry, it generally consists of three segments.
- Upstream: Exploration through drilling and production.
- Midstream: Pipeline and infrastructure that moves that production to the end users.
- Downstream: Delivery and processing of petroleum products.
To understand how important that is, think about everyday products like water bottles, phones, medical supplies, agricultural products, cosmetics, or even sports equipment.
Many of these are derived from oil and gas. How that oil and gas is delivered to the processing plants, factories, or anywhere else it may need to go is where this program is focused. A majority of the curriculum looks at pipeline engineering, the most efficient way to move large volumes of energy.
While oil and gas can be transported by truck or barge, those methods are used less frequently due to their comparative cost and inefficiency. If petroleum prices go up, the cost of vehicle transportation goes up.
That affects costs for consumers, too. Things like groceries, manufactured goods, and many other products can see prices rise.
Energy infrastructure plays a role in the overall economy, so ensuring the transportation of energy is as cost effective and efficient as possible is critical.
That is why our students spend much of their time on pipeline development and maintenance, as well as the safe storage of these important resources.
Looking ahead, what does growth look like for the industry?
The infrastructure demand is immense. Building a mile of major pipeline can cost anywhere from $4 million to $6 million.
If you look at a map of the United States, there are millions of miles of pipeline in operation.
All of that infrastructure must be maintained and upgraded over time. Some pipelines were installed many years ago, and newer materials are now available that are stronger and easier to handle.
Pipelines may also play a role in the future of energy systems. For example, they could be used for hydrogen transportation or carbon capture and utilization, where CO₂ is moved through pipelines.
Renewable natural gas is another developing area, and it would also rely on pipeline infrastructure. Even as the energy landscape evolves, the need for pipeline systems will remain important.
Photo: Midstream Petroleum Engineering faculty and students pose at the Berkshire Hathaway Plant in Cove Point, MD on a site visit
Do you expect job opportunities in this field to continue growing?
Absolutely. The scale of the infrastructure alone creates demand for engineers. Pipelines must be designed, monitored, and maintained safely.
There are also specialized roles involved. For example, reservoir engineers work on underground gas storage systems. Natural gas can be injected into underground reservoirs during the summer and withdrawn in the winter when demand increases.
There are also engineers who work with compressors, processing systems, and separation equipment used in pipeline operations.
Some companies operate internationally, like Chevron or Exxon, but there are also strong regional companies here in West Virginia exporting natural gas.
My hope is that students graduate with the knowledge to contribute to this industry and help maintain reliable energy systems and continue to support energy infrastructure and energy independence. Dr. Samuel Ameri, Chairperson and Professor in the Department of Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering
What advice would you give someone considering a field like midstream engineering?
Energy touches nearly every part of daily life. Petroleum derivatives appear in many products, from plastics and electronics to pharmaceuticals and construction materials.
Because of that, energy infrastructure will always be necessary.
Petroleum and natural gas engineering fields also tend to offer strong career opportunities and competitive salaries.
My hope is that students graduate with the knowledge to contribute to this industry and help maintain reliable energy systems and continue to support energy infrastructure and energy independence.
Learn More
Thank you to Dr. Ameri for his insight and willingness to meet with us to discuss this program.
Want to learn more? Explore the online Midstream Petroleum Engineering, M.S. program page or connect with program contact Dr. Kashy Aminian with any questions about the program experience and application process.