Utica Shale Academy students got a closer look at real-world oil and gas operations during field trips to two Ascent Resources facilities in October. Five students and three staff members ventured to Ascent’s Robinson PLT BL and Wise PLT BL sites in Belmont County, where they viewed the drilling and production processes. USA officials said it was an incredible learning experience and helped the students connect classroom knowledge with hands-on industry insight. They also thanked the company for welcoming the group and Brent Riggle, senior external affairs coordinator, for organizing the opportunity. Among those participating were, from left, Ashley Canann, Logan Krulik, Isaiah Echols, Tyler Carman, Matt Gates, Ryan Delong, Kameron Haines, and Bradley Beadle. (Contributed photo)