Paul Schreffler
Gas Rush
This series consists of original digital audio interview recordings and selected CD listening copies relating to the Carrie and Michael Kline's documenting the wide spectrum of citizen opinion about natural gas extraction (Fracking / hydraulic fracturing) in Northcentral West Virginia mainly during 2014 and 2015. The interviews were drawn upon for use in the 8-minute audio feature Pay Dirt. Originals are housed with the Michael and Carrie Nobel Kline Collection at the Berea College Special Collections and Archives.
To browse this collection and others, please visit the Berea College Special Collections & Archives: https://bereaarchives.libraryhost.com/
Adept Word Management
Paul Schreffler was born on July 28, 1951, in central Pennsylvania. His early life was marked by the death of his father when he was 20 months old, leading his family to relocate to Blairsville, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh. He moved to Buffalo, New York, during his second-grade year after his mother remarried. Schreffler was a diligent student, earning a scholarship to the University of Buffalo, where he majored in music, studying under notable instructors such as Charlie Mingus. Despite his musical pursuits, Schreffler's career path led him to various labor-intensive jobs, which fostered his interest in construction. He joined the Carpenters and Joiners Union apprenticeship program, a decision that provided him with valuable skills and mentorship. This training ultimately led him to a career in technical education, and he eventually became a vice president at a community college. His work focused on creating educational programs that align with industry needs, emphasizing practical skills and safety, particularly in fields like energy and construction.
Scope and Content Note
The interview with Paul Schreffler, conducted on November 1, 2013, covers his life story, educational background, and professional experiences. Schreffler details his early years in central Pennsylvania and Buffalo, New York, highlighting the economic challenges and cultural environment of the Rust Belt during the 1950s and 1960s. He recounts his academic journey at the University of Buffalo, his brief involvement in the "Back to the Land" movement, and his transition to West Virginia. Schreffler describes his entry into the construction industry through a union apprenticeship, emphasizing the mentorship and skills development he received. He discusses his roles in community and technical colleges, focusing on workforce development and the integration of technical training with higher education. Schreffler addresses broader issues, such as the impact of industrial activities on communities, the importance of safety in technical trades, and the evolving landscape of energy production and environmental regulation.
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