HOUSTON, Texas – A major development involving Venezuela’s leadership is raising questions here in Houston, particularly in an energy-driven city where global events can have a significant impact on local job markets.
With Venezuela’s vast oil reserves back in focus amid U.S. military action, Houston’s energy workforce is paying close attention. Industry leaders say what happens overseas can influence hiring decisions at home, even if changes don’t come quickly.
According to workforce experts, interest is already picking up. Recruiters report hearing from oil and gas workers with experience in Venezuela, with some already submitting resumes in anticipation of future opportunities.
Experts caution that any major shift would take time. Investment decisions can take years, and Venezuela’s energy infrastructure would require significant rebuilding before large-scale expansion could happen. Still, if U.S. companies increase their work in Venezuela, Houston could be well-positioned to benefit.
International energy projects often rely on Houston-based workers, from engineers and managers to technical and offshore crews.
“This is the part of the industry where having no degree, you’re not having an associate’s degree, you could make $100,000 a year, easily,” said Ramanan Krishnamoorti, vice president for energy and innovation at the University of Houston. “If you start to work offshore, you make double that. With almost minimal experience, you could make six figures.”
For now, there is no immediate change at local facilities, including refineries like the one in Pasadena. But energy leaders say Houston remains well-positioned for future job growth if global oil development expands.