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Nicholls

State

University Executive Summary

for 2014-15

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OPENING STATEMENT

With over 5,800 undergraduate students, 600 graduate students, 650 employees and a $55 million annual budget,

Nicholls State University realizes its mission of quality teaching, research and service by contributing to the

educational and economic needs of its service region. Nicholls provides 80% of the Bayou Region’s nurses, 80% of

its teachers, and the majority of college graduates in the region. University faculty are actively engaged in regional

research and program enhancement, securing in 2014 over $1 million dollars of awards from the Board of Regents

alone.

Our 2015 W.I.S.E. overarching goals include:

Increase graduates in high-demand disciplines

Increase preparedness of graduates to work in the Bayou Region’s and Louisiana’s industries

Increase partnerships with industry in the Bayou Region

Increase regional research and innovation

Nicholls seeks to become the leader in providing baccalaureate-prepared professionals for Louisiana’s Regional

Labor Market Area (RLMA) four- and five-star energy sector jobs. For over four decades, Nicholls has established a

reputation for educating and providing engineering technologists for the oil and gas industry. The University’s

Department of Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management (PETSM) offers unique educational

opportunities for both traditional students and non-traditional working students by way of the blended face-to-

face instruction, laboratory, and a web-based delivery system designed to accommodate rotational work

schedules. There are no other known programs of this kind in the Gulf Coast region. PETSM has established

articulation agreements with the Louisiana Community Technical College System (LCTCS) and has assumed the role

as leader in continuation from the two year Associate of Science degree to the Bachelor of Science degree.

Nicholls offers the Bachelor of Science Degree in Petroleum Services with concentrations in Exploration and

Production (PSEP) and Safety Technology (PSST). These new concentrations were established in 2010 to allow

students to focus on particular sectors of the industry, and for those ambitious enough, the option of becoming

experts in both exploration and production and safety technology. The concentration areas were created in

response to workforce needs.

Our curriculum is designed so that students can earn the Associate of Science in Petroleum Services (PSAS) or

Safety Technology (STAS) in two years while pursuing the four-year baccalaureate degree in either PSEP or PSST.

The associate level degrees create early employment opportunities for students while continuing their education

in the four year exploration and production or safety technology tracks. Major oil and gas companies like Chevron,

Shell, and BHP Billiton hire associate-level graduates and support their continuation of studies while working on

rotational work schedules. This two-plus-two model provides a seamless transition into the Bachelor of Science

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program. The majority of students will earn a combination of Associate of Science degrees and Bachelor of Science

degrees.

In 2014, the Safety Technology Associate of Science degree was authorized for full delivery through Nicholls

Online, and the Petroleum Services Associate of Science is pending approval for online delivery. The online

degrees create more access to students who are seeking career advancement or career changes to increase

earning capacity, as well as those currently employed in the industry. All programs are accredited by the

Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE).

Our curriculum prepares graduates for key leadership positions within the safety and environmental, drilling and

completions, and production operations segments of the industry. Some are employed in one of many specialized

well services or supply functions critical to supporting petroleum operations. With the “Big Crew Change” (nearly

50% of the experienced workforce retiring in the next 10 years) impacting the industry sustainability, advancing

technology and increased domestic energy production, students are flooding into these programs to cash in on

high paying, high demand industry jobs which are critical to our regional and state economy.

PETSM’s enrollment is rapidly growing and resources to serve this expansion are putting a strain on the system. In

fall 2014, PETSM admitted 162 new students into the program. Of these students, forty-two percent have

graduated from high schools located in Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes-the “gateway to the oil and gas

industry” and the region where the energy industry has made substantial investments.

W.I.S.E. Institutional Contact: Dr. Todd Keller, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs [email protected] 985-448-4148

mailto:[email protected]

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WISE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

1. INCREASE INSTRUCTIONAL CAPACITY AND STUDENT ACCESS IN PETROLEUM

ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT (PETSM) CURICULA

2. EXPAND STUDENT ADVISING SERVICES AND IMPLEMENT CAREER MENTORING

TO ADDRESS W.I.S.E. REGIONAL WORKFORCE NEEDS

3. CREATE W.I.S.E. SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Priority 1:

The capacity and access project will renovate and furnish five existing classrooms in Gouaux Hall to address the

immediate infrastructure needs in providing access for students. The planned renovations will nearly double

capacity to accommodate current demand and projected growth for the next three years. Installation of state of

the art instructional technology and video capture equipment will enhance the unique blended learning delivery

system. The future human resourcing challenges will be addressed through continued private and public workforce

partnerships. The project will commence upon receipt of initial distributions from WISE funds. The anticipated

start date for the project is spring 2015.

Priority 2:

The advising and career mentoring project funded by WISE will directly address regional workforce needs by

expanding current student advising to include a specialization in energy- related four- and-five star jobs for the

regional labor market. The University will employ an industry liaison to engage the local employers to establish

and coordinate internships, externships, service learning opportunities, apprenticeships, research opportunities,

and jobs. This project will connect the student to workforce opportunities, mentoring, and job shadowing

services. A W.I.S.E. advisor will guide the student through the two- plus- two degree programs, workforce

education and training opportunities, and partnering programs at the technical and community colleges. The

project will fund two graduate assistants, one undergraduate student, and two specialists in advising and

workforce outreach. Personnel will also provide extension services to the new Cooperative Learning Center for

Texas A&M TEEX –OSHA located at our satellite campus in Houma, LA.

An office suite in Gouaux Hall will be renovated and a dedicated student career resource center with an interactive

career exploration and employment video wall will be provided. The center will solicit regional input in

determining local and regional needs, areas of economic development, and better alignment of institutional

offerings, research, service, and labor market needs. The center will coordinate efforts with existing economic

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development organizations such as South Central Industrial Association (SCIA), South Louisiana Economic Council

(SLEC), and Louisiana Department of Labor’s WORK-IT program.

http://www.nicholls.edu/news/2014/nicholls-signs-agreement-with-the-texas-am-engineering-extension-service-

teex-to-offer-specialized-safety-and-health-training/

Priority 3:

The scholarship project will follow the LMI requirement and will be administered through the University

Scholarship office on campus. Scholarships will be available to students majoring in disciplines that provide

graduates for four- and- five star jobs and STEM related fields of study. We anticipate a tiered scholarship system

that may include: LMI students from the Region III Labor Market; students with associate degrees who are

continuing towards a bachelor degree in a defined RLMA 4- or-5 star job; and faculty mentored students

participating in undergraduate research and service learning projects linked to 4-and-5 start jobs.

Anticipated outcomes include: on-time graduation, increased number of graduates, participation in Nicholls

Research Week, public presentations, and publications. Graduates who are better prepared through the

undergraduate research experience have project management and problem solving skills (i.e. responsibility,

persistence, synthesis, analysis, thoroughness, teamwork, leadership, commitment, patience, perspective-taking

and ethical behavior). W.I.S.E. funding will help leverage energy related company sponsored scholarships.

Emphasis of scholarship awards will be placed on LMI students with needs not met by other funding sources,

thereby closing the gap. Nicholls has identified 32% (1,847) of its undergraduate students as LMI students. Closer

examination revealed 330 students with a gap in financial need.

http://www.nicholls.edu/news/2014/nicholls-signs-agreement-with-the-texas-am-engineering-extension-service-teex-to-offer-specialized-safety-and-health-training/


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GOALS

PROJECTED COMPLETERS

Program/Degree 2012-13

(baseline) 2013-14 (actual)

2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18

Petroleum Services (B.S.)

14 18 25 26 28 35

Petroleum Services (A.S.)

28 34 40 42 43 45

Safety Technology (A.S.)

57 83 95 97 99 100

TOTAL 99 135 160 165 170 180

PROJECTED ENROLLMENTS



2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18


149 243 323 332 339 350


46 33 35 36 37 38


69 40 104 107 109 112

TOTAL 264 316 462 475 485 500

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PARTNERS

Organization Support Provided

Chevron $ 28,000

BHP Billiton $ 20,000

Petrobras America $ 15,000

South Central Industrial Association (SCIA)

$ 5,000

Morgan City Oilman’s Rodeo $ 10,000

American Association of Drilling Engineers (AADE)-Lafayette and New Orleans Chapter

$ 15,000

Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) $ 2,242

Total $ 95,242

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BUDGET

BY OBJECT/INITIATIVE

Category Strategic Priority Funding Source Total

Infrastructure 1 Capital outlay $ 115,000

Infrastructure 1 General Funds $ 140,000

Student Advising Services 2 CDBG $ 121,208

Industry Match 1 Industry $ 95,242

RED Scholarships 3 CDBG $ 100,000

GRAND TOTAL $ 571,450

BY FUNCTION


Personnel 2 CDBG $ 85,000

Fringe Benefits 2 CDBG $ 16,500

Supplies (general) 2 CDBG $ 19,708

Classroom Renovations 1 Capital outlay $115,000

Classroom Renovations 1 General Funds $ 91,000

Supplies (Furnishings) 1 General Funds $ 49,000

Supplies (Furnishings) 1 Industry Match $ 36,500

Equipment (Video Wall) 2 Industry Match $ 45,000

Supplies (Counseling Office Furniture)

2 Industry Match $ 8,200

Travel and Outreach 2 Industry Match $ 5,542

Scholarships 3 CDBG $100,000

GRAND TOTAL $571,450

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JUSTIFICATION:

Personnel: $85,000 total request

Outreach Coordinator for industry relations to coordinate efforts with existing economic development

organizations such as South Central Industrial Association (SCIA), South Louisiana Economic Council (SLEC), and

Louisiana Department of Labor’s WORK-IT program as well as mentoring students. The outreach coordinator will

act as a liaison to coordinate internships, externships, service learning opportunities, apprenticeships, research

opportunities, and jobs. @ $35,000

PETSM Advisor (50% split effort) for curricular navigation, synchronizing the course offerings to accommodate the

rotational schedules, and academic guidance@ $20,000

Two graduate students will support the advising and outreach functions as deemed necessary @ $12,000 each =

$24,000

One undergraduate student will assist with office operations @ $6,000

Fringe: $16,500 total request

Outreach Coordinator@ $35,000 X 30% fringe (university fringe rate) = $10,500

PETSM Advisor @ $20,000 X 30% fringe (university fringe rate) = $6,000

Supplies: $113,408

General supplies include printing, STEM Kits, workforce events, career panel discussion events, paper and

promotional materials, research supplies @ $19,708

Furnishings include ergonomics table and chairs for renovated classrooms @ $85,500

Furnishing for office @ $ 8,200

Equipment: $45,000 total requested

Interactive career exploration and employment kiosk (Video Wall) @ $ 45,000

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Travel & Outreach: $5,542 total requested

The funds will be used for regional travel to workforce events, networking and stakeholder engagement.

Classroom Renovations: $206,000 total requested

Five classrooms and one office suite in Goaux Hall to be fully renovated to accommodate current and a three year

projected demand.

Scholarships: $100,000 total requested

Scholarships awards will be based on CDBG rules and provided for one or more of the following: tution, fees,

books. Scholarships may be awared up to two years.

WISE Implementation Plan

Institutional Contact Dr. Al Davis

Nicholls State University [email protected]

FY 2014-15

UL SYSTEM

10/28/2014

Nicholls State University

Implementation Plan

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WISE Implementation Plan

Date: October 28, 2014

System: University of Louisiana System

Institution: Nicholls State University

Contact: Dr. Todd Keller, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs [email protected] 985-448-4148 Description:

The WISE Fund’s stated program goals are to increase graduates in high priority fields, increase research

productivity, and enhance the curriculum and/or student experience in response to industry needs. Each

Louisiana public postsecondary institution allotted funds by the WISE Council is invited to submit an

Implementation Plan outlining how the investment of WISE funds will result in meeting program goals.

Requirements:

Executive Summary:

Appendix A

The Implementation Plan: Proposals should be organized according to targeted program(s) or

department(s). Indicate the department or office and institutional official(s) who will be

responsible for administering the Plan or the specific program expenditures. Please identify the

institutional official(s) by name and position.

WISE Priority 1: Increase Instructional Capacity and Student Access in Petroleum Engineering

Technology and Safety Management (PETSM) Curricula

Responsible Parties:

PETSM Executive Director Michael Gautreaux will lead the project within the

PETSM department. He will work closely with Michael Davis, Assistant Vice

President of Physical Plant and Terry Dupre, Director of Purchasing. The Chief

Financial Officer, Ronald Rodriguez, will be responsible for managing all

expenditures.

Activities/Timeline

See Appendix B for Timeline for Priorities 1 & 2. Appendix C is an architectural

drawing of the entire project. Project will commence in January 2015 and

concluded in accordance with projected timeline in Appendix B. The renovations


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of three classrooms in Gouaux Hall, identified as A, B, and C in Appendix C will be

Phase I of the project. The beginning of Phase II is contingent upon the

completion of the new Culinary Building which is anticipated in May 2015

WISE Priority 2: Expand Student Advising Services and Implement Career Mentoring to

Address W.I.S.E. Regional Workforce Needs


PETSM Executive Director Michael Gautreaux will lead the project within the

PETSM department. He will work closely with Michael Davis, Assistant Vice

President of Physical Plant and Terry Dupre, Director of Purchasing. The Chief

Financial Officer, Ronald Rodriguez, will be responsible for managing all

expenditures. Kristie Goulas, Director of Career Services, will oversee the

administrative function of the center.

Activities/Timeline

See Appendix B for Timeline for Priorities 1 & 2. The administrative functions will

begin in January 2015 and continue thereafter. The construction portion of Phase

II is contingent upon the completion of the new Culinary Building which is

anticipated in May 2015.

WISE Priority 3: Create W.I.S.E. Scholarship Program


The university official overseeing scholarship awarding is Debi Benoit, Director

of the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs. The research component

will be overseen by Dr. John Doucet, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

Activities/Timeline

In year one of funding (Spring 2015), we will distribute $20,000 in the form of performance-based scholarships, up to $2000 maximum, to be applied to recipients’ tuition and fees. In each of the subsequent academic years (Fall 2015-Spring 2016 and Fall 2016-Spring 2017), we will award a total of $40,000 in scholarships, for total scholarships worth $100,000 over three years. Recipients will be obligated to conduct research under the mentorship of a faculty member. The university will track research performance by requiring completion of student timesheets carrying departmental validation and regular progress reporting, as well as final project reporting in each semester of scholarship receipt.

Private Match:

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a. The sum of actions to a specific academic/training program, department, center, or

institute requires a 20% match from a private source. The private match requirement is

provided in R.S. 17:3138.2 (D)(4)(a) (2014) [hyperlink].

W.I.S.E. Match Certification can be found in Appendix D.

b. The management board, or their designee, must certify that a private match has been

guaranteed before funds are withdrawn. (No response required)

Credential-granting Programs: Each program that grants a degree, certificate, or diploma for

which you wish to expend funds, please provide the following:

a. The degree/certificate level, title of program, description, and CIP code associated with

the degree program (should be a designated “high-priority field” [hyperlink to list].)

Nicholls State University is focusing on the programs in Petroleum Technology which is

designated as a high-priority field . http://regents.louisiana.gov/wp-

content/uploads/2014/10/Program-Gaps-for-FY-14-15.xlsx

Degree Level

Title of Program Description CIP Code

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Petroleum Services

The Bachelor’s degree program in Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management combines work experience and academic coursework to prepare students for management positions in the drilling, production, service, and supply segments of the petroleum industry.

15.0903

Associate of Science (A.S.)

Petroleum Services

The Nicholls Associate degree program in Petroleum Services combines work experience and academic coursework to prepare students for management positions in the drilling, production, service and supply segments of the petroleum industry.

15.0903

Associate of Science (A.S.)

Safety Technology

The curriculum is designed to accommodate persons working seven on/seven off so that they may attend classes on their days off as full time students. The curriculum contains a blend of technical and supervisory courses to prepare a person for the more complex technical and middle management positions in the drilling and production operations as well as the highly technical service and supply segment.

15.0903

The associate degree programs are designed as a “two plus two”. “Two plus two” allows students to earn one (or both) of the Associate degrees in either Petroleum Services or Safety Technology. Students can continue for two additional years and earn a Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Services.

http://regents.louisiana.gov/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Program-Gaps-for-FY-14-15.xlsx

http://regents.louisiana.gov/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Program-Gaps-for-FY-14-15.xlsx

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b. If the degree program is not designated as a “high-priority field”, please explain.

N/A

c. The action(s) you wish to take in the plan to meet the WISE Fund goals.

i. If adding/altering courses, indicate the addition/alteration by department and

course number.

N/A

ii. If adding faculty using WISE funds, indicate the number, brief description of the

credentials of faculty to be hired, whether the faculty will be tenure-tracked and

the anticipated costs.

No faculty being hired. The Executive Summary in Appendix A outlines the non-

faculty personnel needs being addressed by the WISE funds. See excerpt below:


Outreach Coordinator for industry relations to coordinate efforts with

existing economic development organizations such as South Central

Industrial Association (SCIA), South Louisiana Economic Council (SLEC),

and Louisiana Department of Labor’s WORK-IT program as well as

mentoring students. The outreach coordinator will act as a liaison to

coordinate internships, externships, service learning opportunities,

apprenticeships, research opportunities, and jobs. @ $35,000

PETSM Advisor (50% split effort) for curricular navigation, synchronizing

the course offerings to accommodate the rotational schedules, and

academic guidance@ $20,000

Two graduate students will support the advising and outreach functions

as deemed necessary @ $12,000 each = $24,000



Outreach Coordinator@ $35,000 X 30% fringe (university fringe rate) =

$10,500


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iii. If equipment, renovations, or other capital investment is required, provide a

description.

A complete description of renovations and equipment purchases is outlined in

Appendix A: Executive Summary. Also, Appendix C contains an architectural

depiction of the renovations. See excerpt below from Executive Summary:

Supplies: $113,408

General supplies include printing, STEM Kits, workforce events, career

panel discussion events, paper and promotional materials, research

supplies @ $19,708

Furnishings include ergonomics table and chairs for renovated

classrooms @ $85,500



Interactive career exploration and employment kiosk (Video Wall) @ $

45,000


The funds will be used for regional travel to workforce events,

networking and stakeholder engagement.


Five classrooms and one office suite in Goaux Hall to be fully renovated

to accommodate current and a three year projected demand.

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d. Delivery method of the program (traditional, online, etc.).

The PETSM degree programs are the only known of their kind, uniquely scheduling

courses to accommodate rotational work schedules including 7-days-on, 7-days-off and

the 14-days-on, 14-days-off. Courses are delivered in a hybrid format to accommodate

the unique rotational schedules of the non-traditional students served. The Safety

program is also offered through Nicholls Online in a completely online format.

e. If the institution has attempted to create or expand this program previously, include

reasons for not proceeding.

The Safety Technology Associate of Science program was successfully expanded in

January 2014 into Nicholls Online to be delivered completely online, responding to the

needs of the industry. University of Louisiana System has approved the offering of the

Petroleum Services Associate of Science program in Nicholls Online beginning in January

2015. Approval letter from University of Louisiana System can be found in Appendix E.

f. Five years of enrollment and completer history.

Enrollment

Program Fall 2010 Fall 2011 Fall 2012 Fall 2013 Fall 2014


88 94 149 243 323


23 31 46 33 35


44 49 69 40 104

Totals 155 174 264 318 462

Percent Change from 2010

12.3% 70.3% 105.2% 198.1%

Completers

Program 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013 2013-2014


15 15 16 14 18


12 11 18 28 34


19 26 32 57 83

Totals 46 52 66 99 135

Percent Change from 2009-2010

13.0% 43.5% 115.2% 193.5%

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g. The expected outcomes from the actions proposed. If increasing the number of

graduates, indicate the estimated number of graduates. If improving curriculum,

provide metrics to demonstrate the improvement.

Expected outcomes, in terms of enrollment and completers, are outlines in Appendix A:

Executive Summary. See Tables Below:




2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18


14 18 25 26 28 35


28 34 40 42 43 45


57 83 95 97 99 100

TOTAL 99 135 160 165 170 180




2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18


149 243 323 332 339 350


46 33 35 36 37 38


69 40 104 107 109 112

TOTAL 264 316 462 475 485 500

Research Productivity: Each program conducting research or proposing to increase research

productivity should include the following:

a. The department, center, or institute at which the research is to be primarily conducted.

b. The action(s) taken in the plan to meet the WISE Fund goals.

i. If adding faculty or research personnel (to include graduate students) using

WISE funds, provide a brief description of the credentials of the person(s) to be

hired.

ii. If equipment, renovations, or other capital investment is required, provide a

description.

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iii. Anticipated costs.

iv. The expected outcomes from the actions proposed. If the addition of faculty is

also part of the plan to increase graduates, the expected research productivity

outcome need only be listed once.

Nicholls State University is not using WISE funds to directly increase research productivity this

funding period.

Aid Programs: If WISE Funds are to be used for financial aid, graduate assistantships, or

fellowships, please provide the following:

a. The name of the financial assistance program and budget of the program for the prior

three fiscal years.

WISE funds will be used to establish a new scholarship program, with an emphasis on

undergraduate research.

b. The number and amount (a range of amounts is permissible).

Year Number of Students Total Dollars

2014-15 10 – 15 $20,000

2015-16 10 – 15 $40,000

2016-17 10 – 15 $40,000

Scholarships will be awarded up to $2000/semester.

c. The expected outcome consistent with WISE Fund goals.

Participation in undergraduate research and the financial support will increase the

persistence of the student in their degree program, which will be one of the four and

five star job programs. Increases in retention and graduation rates are expected.

Graduates who are better prepared through the undergraduate research experience

have project management and problem solving skills (i.e. responsibility, persistence,

synthesis, analysis, thoroughness, teamwork, leadership, commitment, patience,

perspective-taking and ethical behavior). Mentor assessments will be developed to

measure growth in these areas.

Multiple Years: If any or all of the programs taking action within this report anticipate multiple

years of WISE Funds, then indicate the number of years for investment, the ultimate outcomes,

and anticipated costs. There should be a clear delineation of funding expectations by fiscal year.

Money allocated for a single fiscal year to an institution for an action should be expended by the

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end of the following fiscal year (i.e., 2 fiscal years to spend money allocated at the beginning of

the first fiscal year) or the money may revert back to the system for redistribution.

The renovation project and scholarship plan will extend beyond this fiscal year using the existing

WISE funds, as indicated in Appendix B for the project timeline and the scholarship section of

this report.

The first year of WISE funds will give our programs a much-needed jump-start towards

accommodating the current demand which has far exceeded expectation and strained existing

resources. These funds will help us to accomplish the first phase of a three phase plan

estimated as $2.8 million. Additional years of funding could be used to continue future phases,

doubling instructional space.

Continuation and expansion of the WISE scholarship program would allow the university to

expand its emphasis on undergraduate research. Graduates who are better prepared through

the undergraduate research experience have project management and problem solving skills

(i.e. responsibility, persistence, synthesis, analysis, thoroughness, teamwork, leadership,

commitment, patience, perspective-taking and ethical behavior).

Outcomes:

a. The institution should state its anticipated outcomes based on the sum of its actions for

each academic/training program, department, center, or institute.

b. The outcomes should include the anticipated timeframe of the outcome. If an institution

plans to increase graduates, the institution must provide the timeframe in which those

graduates are expected.

Enrollment in the PETSM program will nearly double (increase of 89.4%) from the 2012-

2013 baseline year by the 2017-18 academic year. (See table above in section g.)

The number of completers will increase by 81.8% by 2017-18. (See table above in section g.)

Through the increase in career advising and mentoring, formal internships will be developed

and students will be place in these by January 2016.

Accreditation & Approvals:

a. For any of the educational or research programs listed in the Implementation Plan, list

any approvals required by the management board, Board of Regents, or accrediting

body to initiate the program.

The Department of Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management degree

offerings are accredited by The Association of Technology, Management, and Applied

Engineering (ATMAE). No part of the W.I.S.E proposal requires the approval of ATMAE.

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The proposed changes will strength our compliance with the accreditation standards, as

far as facilities, career placement and resources, and increased industry support.

b. Estimate costs for any changes related to accreditation. None.

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Appendix A

Nicholls

State

University Executive Summary

for 2014-15

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OPENING STATEMENT

With over 5,800 undergraduate students, 600 graduate students, 650 employees and a $55 million annual budget,

Nicholls State University realizes its mission of quality teaching, research and service by contributing to the

educational and economic needs of its service region. Nicholls provides 80% of the Bayou Region’s nurses, 80% of

its teachers, and the majority of college graduates in the region. University faculty are actively engaged in regional

research and program enhancement, securing in 2014 over $1 million dollars of awards from the Board of Regents

alone.

Our 2015 W.I.S.E. overarching goals include:

Increase graduates in high-demand disciplines

Increase preparedness of graduates to work in the Bayou Region’s and Louisiana’s industries

Increase partnerships with industry in the Bayou Region

Increase regional research and innovation

Nicholls seeks to become the leader in providing baccalaureate-prepared professionals for Louisiana’s Regional

Labor Market Area (RLMA) four- and five-star energy sector jobs. For over four decades, Nicholls has established a

reputation for educating and providing engineering technologists for the oil and gas industry. The University’s

Department of Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management (PETSM) offers unique educational

opportunities for both traditional students and non-traditional working students by way of the blended face-to-

face instruction, laboratory, and a web-based delivery system designed to accommodate rotational work

schedules. There are no other known programs of this kind in the Gulf Coast region. PETSM has established

articulation agreements with the Louisiana Community Technical College System (LCTCS) and has assumed the role

as leader in continuation from the two year Associate of Science degree to the Bachelor of Science degree.

Nicholls offers the Bachelor of Science Degree in Petroleum Services with concentrations in Exploration and

Production (PSEP) and Safety Technology (PSST). These new concentrations were established in 2010 to allow

students to focus on particular sectors of the industry, and for those ambitious enough, the option of becoming

experts in both exploration and production and safety technology. The concentration areas were created in

response to workforce needs.

Our curriculum is designed so that students can earn the Associate of Science in Petroleum Services (PSAS) or

Safety Technology (STAS) in two years while pursuing the four-year baccalaureate degree in either PSEP or PSST.

The associate level degrees create early employment opportunities for students while continuing their education

in the four year exploration and production or safety technology tracks. Major oil and gas companies like Chevron,

Shell, and BHP Billiton hire associate-level graduates and support their continuation of studies while working on

rotational work schedules. This two-plus-two model provides a seamless transition into the Bachelor of Science

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program. The majority of students will earn a combination of Associate of Science degrees and Bachelor of Science

degrees.

In 2014, the Safety Technology Associate of Science degree was authorized for full delivery through Nicholls

Online, and the Petroleum Services Associate of Science is pending approval for online delivery. The online

degrees create more access to students who are seeking career advancement or career changes to increase

earning capacity, as well as those currently employed in the industry. All programs are accredited by the

Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE).

Our curriculum prepares graduates for key leadership positions within the safety and environmental, drilling and

completions, and production operations segments of the industry. Some are employed in one of many specialized

well services or supply functions critical to supporting petroleum operations. With the “Big Crew Change” (nearly

50% of the experienced workforce retiring in the next 10 years) impacting the industry sustainability, advancing

technology and increased domestic energy production, students are flooding into these programs to cash in on

high paying, high demand industry jobs which are critical to our regional and state economy.

PETSM’s enrollment is rapidly growing and resources to serve this expansion are putting a strain on the system. In

fall 2014, PETSM admitted 162 new students into the program. Of these students, forty-two percent have

graduated from high schools located in Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes-the “gateway to the oil and gas

industry” and the region where the energy industry has made substantial investments.

W.I.S.E. Institutional Contact: Dr. Todd Keller, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs [email protected] 985-448-4148


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WISE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

1. INCREASE INSTRUCTIONAL CAPACITY AND STUDENT ACCESS IN PETROLEUM

ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT (PETSM) CURICULA

2. EXPAND STUDENT ADVISING SERVICES AND IMPLEMENT CAREER MENTORING

TO ADDRESS W.I.S.E. REGIONAL WORKFORCE NEEDS

3. CREATE W.I.S.E. SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Priority 1:

The capacity and access project will renovate and furnish five existing classrooms in Gouaux Hall to address the

immediate infrastructure needs in providing access for students. The planned renovations will nearly double

capacity to accommodate current demand and projected growth for the next three years. Installation of state of

the art instructional technology and video capture equipment will enhance the unique blended learning delivery

system. The future human resourcing challenges will be addressed through continued private and public workforce

partnerships. The project will commence upon receipt of initial distributions from WISE funds. The anticipated

start date for the project is spring 2015.

Priority 2:

The advising and career mentoring project funded by WISE will directly address regional workforce needs by

expanding current student advising to include a specialization in energy- related four- and-five star jobs for the

regional labor market. The University will employ an industry liaison to engage the local employers to establish

and coordinate internships, externships, service learning opportunities, apprenticeships, research opportunities,

and jobs. This project will connect the student to workforce opportunities, mentoring, and job shadowing

services. A W.I.S.E. advisor will guide the student through the two- plus- two degree programs, workforce

education and training opportunities, and partnering programs at the technical and community colleges. The

project will fund two graduate assistants, one undergraduate student, and two specialists in advising and

workforce outreach. Personnel will also provide extension services to the new Cooperative Learning Center for

Texas A&M TEEX –OSHA located at our satellite campus in Houma, LA.

An office suite in Gouaux Hall will be renovated and a dedicated student career resource center with an interactive

career exploration and employment video wall will be provided. The center will solicit regional input in

determining local and regional needs, areas of economic development, and better alignment of institutional

offerings, research, service, and labor market needs. The center will coordinate efforts with existing economic

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development organizations such as South Central Industrial Association (SCIA), South Louisiana Economic Council

(SLEC), and Louisiana Department of Labor’s WORK-IT program.

http://www.nicholls.edu/news/2014/nicholls-signs-agreement-with-the-texas-am-engineering-extension-service-

teex-to-offer-specialized-safety-and-health-training/

Priority 3:

The scholarship project will follow the LMI requirement and will be administered through the University

Scholarship office on campus. Scholarships will be available to students majoring in disciplines that provide

graduates for four- and- five star jobs and STEM related fields of study. We anticipate a tiered scholarship system

that may include: LMI students from the Region III Labor Market; students with associate degrees who are

continuing towards a bachelor degree in a defined RLMA 4- or-5 star job; and faculty mentored students

participating in undergraduate research and service learning projects linked to 4-and-5 start jobs.

Anticipated outcomes include: on-time graduation, increased number of graduates, participation in Nicholls

Research Week, public presentations, and publications. Graduates who are better prepared through the

undergraduate research experience have project management and problem solving skills (i.e. responsibility,

persistence, synthesis, analysis, thoroughness, teamwork, leadership, commitment, patience, perspective-taking

and ethical behavior). W.I.S.E. funding will help leverage energy related company sponsored scholarships.

Emphasis of scholarship awards will be placed on LMI students with needs not met by other funding sources,

thereby closing the gap. Nicholls has identified 32% (1,847) of its undergraduate students as LMI students. Closer

examination revealed 330 students with a gap in financial need.



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GOALS




2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18


14 18 25 26 28 35


28 34 40 42 43 45


57 83 95 97 99 100

TOTAL 99 135 160 165 170 180




2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18


149 243 323 332 339 350


46 33 35 36 37 38


69 40 104 107 109 112

TOTAL 264 316 462 475 485 500

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PARTNERS

Organization Support Provided

Chevron $ 28,000

BHP Billiton $ 20,000

Petrobras America $ 15,000

South Central Industrial Association (SCIA)

$ 5,000

Morgan City Oilman’s Rodeo $ 10,000

American Association of Drilling Engineers (AADE)-Lafayette and New Orleans Chapter

$ 15,000

Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) $ 2,242

Total $ 95,242

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BUDGET

BY OBJECT/INITIATIVE


Infrastructure 1 Capital outlay $ 115,000

Infrastructure 1 General Funds $ 140,000

Student Advising Services 2 CDBG $ 121,208

Industry Match 1 Industry $ 95,242

RED Scholarships 3 CDBG $ 100,000

GRAND TOTAL $ 571,450

BY FUNCTION


Personnel 2 CDBG $ 85,000

Fringe Benefits 2 CDBG $ 16,500

Supplies (general) 2 CDBG $ 19,708

Classroom Renovations 1 Capital outlay $115,000

Classroom Renovations 1 General Funds $ 91,000

Supplies (Furnishings) 1 General Funds $ 49,000

Supplies (Furnishings) 1 Industry Match $ 36,500

Equipment (Video Wall) 2 Industry Match $ 45,000

Supplies (Counseling Office Furniture)

2 Industry Match $ 8,200

Travel and Outreach 2 Industry Match $ 5,542

Scholarships 3 CDBG $100,000

GRAND TOTAL $571,450

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JUSTIFICATION:


Outreach Coordinator for industry relations to coordinate efforts with existing economic development

organizations such as South Central Industrial Association (SCIA), South Louisiana Economic Council (SLEC), and

Louisiana Department of Labor’s WORK-IT program as well as mentoring students. The outreach coordinator will

act as a liaison to coordinate internships, externships, service learning opportunities, apprenticeships, research

opportunities, and jobs. @ $35,000

PETSM Advisor (50% split effort) for curricular navigation, synchronizing the course offerings to accommodate the

rotational schedules, and academic guidance@ $20,000

Two graduate students will support the advising and outreach functions as deemed necessary @ $12,000 each =

$24,000



Outreach Coordinator@ $35,000 X 30% fringe (university fringe rate) = $10,500


Supplies: $113,408

General supplies include printing, STEM Kits, workforce events, career panel discussion events, paper and

promotional materials, research supplies @ $19,708

Furnishings include ergonomics table and chairs for renovated classrooms @ $85,500




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The funds will be used for regional travel to workforce events, networking and stakeholder engagement.


Five classrooms and one office suite in Goaux Hall to be fully renovated to accommodate current and a three year

projected demand.

Scholarships: $100,000 total requested

Scholarships awards will be based on CDBG rules and provided for one or more of the following: tution, fees,

books. Scholarships may be awared up to two years.

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Appendix B

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Timeline for WISE Priorities 1 & 2

Activities 1/15 2/15 3/15 4/15 5/15 6/15 7/15 8/15 9/15 10/15 11/15 12/15 1/16

Step 1: Develop Bid Specifications for PETSM Renovation Project and Bid letting Process

Michael Davis,Terry Dupre

Step 2 Bid Award, Purchasing of equipment, Begin Phase I Renovations. (Priority I)

See Attached Proposed Floor Plan Modifications (Rooms A, B, C)

Michael Davis, Terry Dupre

Step 3-Begin Phase II Renovations. (Priority II)

See Attached Proposed Floor Plan Modifications (Room 409 [red] and PETSM Advising Center [blue])

Michael Davis, Terry Dupre

Step 4-Establishment of Career Center Item 5

Recruit and Hire Personnel

Stakeholder Outreach Activities (Recruiters, Economic Development, Internships)

Michael Gautreaux, Kristie Goulas

Step 5-Installation Item 2:

Bid, Acquire and Install Interactive Career Exploration and Employment Video Wall

Terry Dupre

Step 6-Installation Item 1:

Career Exploration and Employment Center Open House

Michael Gautreaux, Dr. Bruce Murphy

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Appendix C

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Appendix D

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Appendix E

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