Since September 28, 2026, UniLaSalle has been hosting the first national session of the Certificate of Professional Qualification (CQP) for Drilling Assistants in Surface Geothermal Energy and Water Well Drilling in Beauvais. This new certification was created at the initiative of professionals in the drilling and geothermal energy sectors to meet the skills needs of a growing industry.
A certification endorsed by professionals in the drilling and geothermal industries
Led by the National Union of Well, Water Drilling, and Geothermal Contractors (SFEG), in partnership with the French Association of Geothermal Professionals (AFPG), this CQP is the culmination of three years of work.
The observation that sparked the project: the trade of drilling assistant is still largely learned on the job, even though companies need to be able to rely on professionals with solid, recognized technical skills.
The new CQP thus structures entry into the profession, develops team skills, and enables the recognition of experience among professionals already in the field.
To support the rollout of this new certification, the SFEG and the AFPG enlisted UniLaSalle, recognized for its expertise in the fields of geology, subsurface resources, and geothermal energy.
UniLaSalle, the first center to launch the CQP in France
UniLaSalle is now authorized to offer this new CQP nationwide.
On September 28, the institution launched the very first CQP program in France at its Beauvais campus. This marks the first step in rolling out this professional certification to companies and professionals in the sector.
Training that closely reflects the realities of the profession
This training program combines technical instruction, hands-on training, and workplace placements, with a strong emphasis on field experience.
Trainees acquire the fundamentals necessary for their work: geology, hydrogeology, and geothermal energy; the operations of a drilling site; and workplace safety and environmental considerations.
The program also covers the main types of drilling: geothermal drilling, borehole drilling, and water well drilling, as well as sampling techniques.
Two work placements round out the program and allow trainees to put the skills developed during training into practice while working alongside teams and on job sites.
A resolutely practical approach, designed in collaboration with industry professionals to address the realities of the driller’s assistant role.
Preparations for the upcoming sessions are already underway
One or two sessions will be offered each year in Beauvais to meet the industry’s long-term needs.
Companies looking to train their teams, working professionals, or candidates interested in the field: You can contact our Continuing Education team now to find out the upcoming dates and prepare your registration.
