Paper Title: Workforce Nationalization in Emerging Oil and Gas Markets

Abstract In oil-rich markets from Africa to the Middle East, recruiters and employers are reacting to government pushes to see a higher proportion of the workforce made up of native-born workers. It's become the responsibility of global organizations to support the local workforce and ensure integration of the local and expatriate talent. Government-owned National Oil Companies (NOCs) demand heavy investment and commitment in the development of educational institutions, workforce nationalization, and investment in foreign countries' critical infrastructure. International energy companies utilize Workforce Nationalization programs as they expand operations into foreign countries. These programs employ nationals in oil and gas projects, making them stakeholders, as their participation adds value to their local economies. The programs also enable Multinational energy companies to integrate into the communities they operate in. For Workforce Nationalization programs to be effective, companies need to provide the necessary technical, safety, and cultural training to develop people for operational roles. Post-secondary institutions are responding to this market need for customized training, which is delivered offshore or in-country. Training programs leave a positive impact by contributing to the overall economic development of the country, and by providing individuals the opportunity to not only enter into the workforce but also to develop a career path and to expand their cultural horizons.