I fell into being an instructor quite by accident. My workplace closed in December 2008 during the height of winter and the recession. Most hiring in my profession, Process Operations, occurs during the late spring and early summer. I was preparing myself for a move to Northern Alberta where most of the opportunities in my field come up. Just prior to this, my spouse saw an ad in the newspaper placed by a college looking for technical instructors in the Middle East. I decided I'd rather be hot than cold. With the full support of my spouse, we sold everything we owned and moved halfway around the world.
Through some challenges and triumphs, six years later we are both comfortable with our career choices. I do have some uncertainties looming though. No job in the Middle East is permanent, even if you stay for years. My skills as an instructor have evolved. My vocational currency as a subject matter expert, however, is becoming staler. No amount of conferences and workshops can take the place of real field experience. Many colleges at home are moving toward sessional or part time instructors, making it difficult to return to Canada as an instructor.
To increase my employability or move to a managerial position, I need to weigh the benefits of spending the time and money to get a Masters Degree. Alternatively, the Oil and Gas industry is in a major downturn with few good jobs available.
Sometimes, without any clear road signs, a tomorrow the same as today is not a bad thing. In the mean time, I will continue my PIDP journey, and see what happens.
Through some challenges and triumphs, six years later we are both comfortable with our career choices. I do have some uncertainties looming though. No job in the Middle East is permanent, even if you stay for years. My skills as an instructor have evolved. My vocational currency as a subject matter expert, however, is becoming staler. No amount of conferences and workshops can take the place of real field experience. Many colleges at home are moving toward sessional or part time instructors, making it difficult to return to Canada as an instructor.
To increase my employability or move to a managerial position, I need to weigh the benefits of spending the time and money to get a Masters Degree. Alternatively, the Oil and Gas industry is in a major downturn with few good jobs available.
Sometimes, without any clear road signs, a tomorrow the same as today is not a bad thing. In the mean time, I will continue my PIDP journey, and see what happens.