As an outsider looking in, I have been reading this website for weeks attempting to get a glimpse of what might happen. Mostly I was amazed at the amount of unprofessionalism displayed by some people. For those of you still employed... count your blessings today that you continue to have a paycheck. Remember that your turn may come sometime, because the nature of the oil and gas industry is "when it is good, it is great and when it is bad, it is very bad". Don't assume people who were the ones who were RIFFED (reduction in force) were RIFFED as a result of low performance. You don't know the criteria for the RIF, any more than they do. For those of you who are waking up this morning who are no longer employed with Chesapeake, may I say... There is life after Chesapeake. The severance package wasn't bad, it could have nothing, but the WARN act. Take a few days to grieve a loss, then put on your "big panties" and go forth! There is a great website that will help you get started.. www.okjobmatch.com, as well as, others such as indeed.com. It is my understanding that Chesapeake will give assistance regarding job placement, it is my hope that they will truly give job assistance. I am sure many of you have never had to work through the system of unemployment, etc., however, IF you don't have a job once the severance package is gone, then you can file for unemployment on-line; you can also access assistance from DHS (SNAP, i.e. food stamps, child care and medical for your children, Sooner Care). You may or may not qualify for any or all of the DHS services, but asking is a good thing to do. If you need some additional skills to beef up your skills, may I suggest that you check out your local Career and Technology Education School. To find the school closest to you, go to the Okla. Dept. of Career tech website. You will find that Career and Technology Schools have a plethora of short term course offerings in the day/evening hours. I encourage each of you to work toward staying focused and busy. If you find yourself with down time, find an organization or school to do volunteer work, and, of course, the volunteer work can be placed on a resume.
I wish each of success in your journey. Life has many doors... and when one door closes, another one opens. Good luck and God bless.