Students in Holland College's Commercial Diving program received a visit from a recruiter from Global Industries Offshore recently, the second such visit the program has received from a U.S.-based off-shore commercial diving company in the past six months.

The interest the program is receiving stems from a shortage of commercial divers off the shores of North America and in deep sea operations across the world, according to program instructor Steve White.

"Right now, there is a huge demand for divers in the off-shore oil and gas industry," White noted. "This is an excellent time for people interested in entering the industry. Companies are becoming increasingly competitive, offering very attractive salaries, bonuses, and incentives."

Global recruiter Jerred A. Hebert agreed.

"Right now, we have vessels tied up because we can't get enough diving crews to send them out. We offer divers and students graduating from commercial diving programs a host of benefits if they sign with us," he told the students.

Global's diving division, Global Divers and Marine Contractors, has more than 30 years of experience as a quality diving contractor. In addition to signing bonuses, new recruits with the company are provided with mentoring materials designed to help them choose the right training to follow their chosen career path within the industry. Training is provided free of charge, and the company also covers living expenses for the duration of the training.

The students won't be certified and ready to enter the industry until next spring, giving them ample time to consider any and all offers very carefully.

In this picture: (L-R) Global Industries Offshore recruiter Jerred A. Hebert discusses the opportunities Global offers newly-qualified divers with Commercial Diving students David Ellis, Ashton Hawke and Cole Scarfe.