The Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology has completed the first phase of construction for a gas compression training center at its Okmulgee, Oklahoma, campus.

Nabholz Construction Co. workers finished the structural steel framework on Feb. 11. The 24,000 sq.ft. (2200 m²) building will be finished in May.

The center, which was funded partially by a US$2 million Chesapeake Energy Corp. grant, will house a program that trains students to diagnose, service and maintain gas compression equipment.

Students who complete four semesters of coursework and two semesters of paid internships receive an Associate in Applied Science degree in Natural Gas Compression. The institute said the new center will facilitate an increase in enrollment.