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Process and Equipment Validation Training for the River Parishes Region
The Process Equipment Training (PET) Plant at River Parishes Community College (RPCC) is a testament to the power of industry collaboration and forward-thinking education. This state-of-the-art facility provides unmatched training opportunities, preparing students for a multitude of technical careers in the local industry. Whether you aspire to become an operator, instrumentation technician, millwright, or welder, the PET Plant has something to offer.
About the PET Plant
The inception of the PET Plant is an inspiring story of ingenuity and collaboration. It all started when BASF, a global leader in the chemical industry, decided to make a significant and impactful donation. BASF sent a team to its Geismar facility to disassemble a three-story distillation unit, which was then transported to RPCC’s Gonzales campus. This distillation unit now forms the core of the Process Technology training program, offering students the chance to gain life-sized operation and maintenance experience. This includes troubleshooting problems and engaging with various life-like scenarios that instructors can simulate. Learn more about the key features of the PET Plant:
- Three-story distillation unit from BASF’s Geismar facility.
- Second decommissioned tower donated by BASF.
- Complete engineering plans for both structures.
- Life-sized operation and maintenance experience.
- Troubleshooting real-world problems.
- Engaging with simulated scenarios created by instructors.
- Project overseen by BASF’s project team.
- Contributions from industry leaders, including ISC, Cajun Industries, Emerson, Performance Contractors, Lift Tech, and Zachry.
- Over $3M in donated equipment, services, supplies, and expertise.
Benefits of the RPCC PET Plant
The benefits of the PET Plant extend beyond the classroom, impacting students, industry partners, and the local community. At RPCC, we want to help train you and offer a large range of opportunities. Explore the benefits of the PET plant:
For Students
- Operate and maintain industrial equipment.
- Engage in hands-on learning that mirrors real-world conditions.
- Develop troubleshooting skills in a controlled environment.
- Gain confidence and proficiency in technical skills.
- Prepare for roles such as operators, instrumentation technicians, millwrights, and welders.
- Improve employability through experience with industry-standard equipment.
- Connect with industry professionals.
- Access to potential employers through partnerships with leading companies.
For Industry Partners
- Train a skilled and competent workforce.
- Ensure employees are proficient with the latest technology and equipment.
- Reduce the training time required for new hires.
- Engage in a collaborative partnership to design and refine training programs.
- Contribute to the development of a first-rate training environment.
- Share expertise and resources to benefit the wider community.
For the Community
- Support local industry with a steady supply of well-trained professionals.
- Contribute to the region’s economic development through workforce readiness.
- Foster a culture of learning and innovation.
- Establish RPCC as a leader in technical education.
- Attract more students to careers in the industrial sector.
- Enhance the overall quality of education offered at RPCC.
The PET Plant Vision
The RPCC PET Strategic Team had a clear vision from the beginning—“Beginning with the End in Mind.” This forward-thinking mantra guided the development of the PET Plant and ensured that it met the needs of both students and industry partners.
- BASF
- ISC
- Cajun Industries
- Emerson
- Performance Contractors
- Lift Tech
- Zachry
These early partners played a pivotal role in shaping the PET Plant, contributing time, resources, and expertise to create a world-class training facility.
The dedication to continuous improvement is evident in the ongoing efforts to refine and enhance the PET Plant. Regular meetings, planning sessions, and revisions have ensured that the facility remains at the cutting edge of industrial training.
The PET Plant’s success is a testament to the power of community and partnership. The unwavering support of industry partners has been instrumental in creating a training environment that is second to none. The PET Plant website is a valuable resource for those interested in learning more about available partnerships and training opportunities.
You and The PET Plant
The RPCC PET Plant is more than just a training facility—it is a beacon of opportunity for students, a vital resource for industry partners, and a catalyst for economic growth in the local community. By providing hands-on training with real-world equipment, the PET Plant ensures that graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in the industrial sector. Ready to take the next step in your technical career? Explore the RPCC PET Plant possibilities and see how our unique training programs can help you achieve your goals. Visit our website to learn more about available partnerships and training opportunities and join us in building a brighter future for the industrial workforce.
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FOR more info, visit or call today!
RPCC Gonzales Campus
925 West Edenborne Parkway
Gonzales, LA 70737
(225)-743-8500
Take the next step
Accomplish your educational and professional goals. Take the next step and apply to join the River Parishes Community College family.
Campus Locations
Gonzales Campus
925 W. Edenborne Parkway
Gonzales, LA. 70737
Reserve Campus
181 Regala Park Road
Reserve, LA. 70084
St. Charles Campus
13145 HWY 90
Boutte, LA. 70039
Westside Campus
25250 Tenant Road
Plaquemine, LA. 70764
Donaldsonville High School
Westbank Workforce Training Center
100 Tiger Drive
Donaldsonville, LA. 70346
RPCC C.A.R.E.S.
River Parishes Community College is committed to collaboration, accountability, respect & inclusion,
excellence, and sustainability.
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