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HOUSTON -- Mercuria Energy, one of the world’s largest independent integrated energy and commodities groups, today presented certificates of completion to the apprentices in their U.S. apprenticeship program and awarded them fulltime positions. Mercuria employees from the North America leadership group and operations departments were in attendance.

Both apprentices, Chris Inlow and Chris Pritchard participated in an intensive one-year on-the job development training in the operations department in Houston, Texas as part of the Apprentice Program. Mercuria established its first Apprentice Program following the agreement with United States Department of Labor.

“Mercuria relies on talent to drive our business in the United States and around the world,” said Peter Sherk, Mercuria’s CEO of the Americas. “Through the apprenticeship program,  we are fostering necessary skillsets and creating the next generation of Mercuria’s team.  We are pleased to welcome these two apprentices into our fulltime operations."

Chris Inlow has accepted the position of operations assistant.  The position reports to Richard Ali, contracts and settlements manager. Chris graduated from University of Missouri-Kansas City with a degree in political science and has a graduate degree from St. Leo University with a master of business administration (MBA). Chris Inlow served active duty in the U.S. Navy from April 2011 to April 2015.

Chris Pritchard has accepted the position of trade support officer. This position reports to Loren Squire, trader support, team lead. Chris graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in finance with a focus on global energy management.

Mercuria’s apprenticeship program offers real-world work experience to persons in the United States and abroad. The program allows participating individuals to gain knowledge and skills through practical experiences and learning.

Mercuria worked extensively with authorities in the United States and Switzerland to create an apprenticeship program in the America which was modeled on its historic Swiss concept. More than 20 Swiss companies are now involved in bringing and expanding their model of apprenticeship to their U.S. facilities. Mercuria is a proud partner of the program.