When Dr. Greg Garrison first came to Missouri State he planned on studying dairy science.
“We were required to take a course on soils and crops which had a pre-requisite of chemistry,” said Garrison. “I took my first chemistry course, 110 with Dr. Ernst, and was hooked from that semester. I changed my major to chemistry and never looked back.”
The fact that MSU offered dairy science and was a short commute from home solidified Garrison’s decision to attend Missouri State.
In his upcoming seminar on Feb. 24, Garrison will discuss the oilfield industry, drilling and completing oil and gas wells.
“I want to give the students an introduction to the oilfield; it’s something most people in this part of the world have little exposure to,” said Garrison. “Myself, I didn’t know anything until my first job in 1994.”
Garrison owns Oilfield Testing and Consulting, a company that owns several oilfield-related businesses and operations. The company also provides independent laboratory testing for cement and drilling fluids.
“People have heard about working in the oilfield but when I was a student there was zero exposure to the industry at MSU. The oilfield is a very dynamic place to work with numerous opportunities for all disciplines,” said Garrison. “Personally I would have never imagined so many different jobs and companies are associated with the oil and gas industry. The industry is not portrayed in the brightest of lights because of accidents or industry practices that are not understood by the public.”
Garrison not only wants to share his knowledge of the oilfield industry, but also why his time at Missouri State was important.
“The learning environment was contagious; everyone wanted to see hard work and dedication pay off,” said Garrison. “Even though a person may not work in a specific discipline, a quality education always prepares you for change and new adventures.”
Garrison received a BS in comprehensive chemistry in 1988 from Missouri State and a PhD in organic chemistry from Oklahoma State in 1992.