UPDATED: Injured football player ‘responding’, but still in critical condition
September 30, 2015
Alfreda Richoux
October 6, 2015
A Houma oilfield service company’s move to larger local quarters, its owners say, is proof of reason for optimism at a somewhat dismal time for the industry, with petroleum prices still falling and related layoffs still occurring at some companies.
Force Industries sells and installs solar panels and pressure relief valves that are used on offshore platforms.
The company hosted a ribbon-cutting Thursday at their new corporate headquarters on Freedom Drive, at the end of Capital Boulevard.
Glenn Bascle and partner Becky Hebert – founders of the firm – said they are proud of what the company has accomplished and what they believe can be accomplished in the future.
Terrebonne Parish President Michel Claudet is among local officials who say the expansion is good news for the local area.
“They are to be commended for their leadership during these economic times,” Claudet said. “This really demonstrates that even in depressed times there are segments of our economy that continues to thrive. Additionally, often through conservative management there are fabulous opportunities for companies that are poised to take advantage of opportunities. Congratulations to them.”
Bascle and Hebert began working on projects together about 15 years ago. Force was created six years ago.
Offshore platforms require energy to run equipment, heat water and perform other vital functions. Solar panels are no an important part of that power mix. Force assembles the panels after having them cut to order and installs them on-site in the Gulf.
They also assemble and install relief devices that are used in the production phase of crude, as it travels through various pipes at high pressure.
“We don’t do the welding and grinding and machine work,” Bascle explained. ”We do design the panels and have them fabricated. We also assemble the components, the tubing and instrumentation.”
The company employs a total of 17 people, Bascle said.
“We are expanding and enlarging and growing a little bit and keeping people employed,” he said. “And we are proud of that.”
