DGC: EnVision e-Learning and Simulations to Fill Workforce Skills Gap

EnVision Tackles Gas Worker Skills Gap Dakota Gasification Company (DGC) uses e-learning and simulations to fill the workforce skills gap at the Great Plains Synfuels Plant in Beulah, ND

Many of DGC’s experienced operators have recently retired, and the company is hiring new operators to fill the void. Recognizing the need for quick and effective training, DGC called upon GSE to employ its EnVision™ e-learning tutorials and simulations to shorten the learning curve while preparing workers from all backgrounds, from entry-level to expert operators.

DGC’s employees will use self-paced tutorials to master the unit operations quickly and process controls fundamentals. They will then use real-time universal simulation models for practicing normal and critical operations, troubleshooting, and malfunction recovery. DGC can even use the EnVision tools in the years ahead to refresh experienced operators and train incoming employees at any level.

DGC is currently working with GSE and its partner, Systran Inc., to conduct a training needs assessment and training program development project. DGC chose GSE’s EnVision products because the practical nature of the simulators, course content and tutorials best met its training needs. With the implementation of this program, DGC will experience the long-term benefit of an enriched training program that reduces the time it takes to produce proficient console operators.

DGC is a subsidiary of Basin Electric Power Cooperative. DGC’s Great Plains Synfuels Plant is the only commercial-scale coal gasification plant in the United States that manufactures natural gas and has been doing so since 1984.

GSE’s EnVision tools are a part of GSE’s Human Performance Improvement Solutions, that provide the process, technology and services needed to go from screening and selection to developing an expert team.