An old steel plant in Johnstown has new life.

Environmental Tank and Container is meeting the demands of the Marcellus Shale industry.

Drilling companies are impressed by the quality of work and after taking a tour so is Governor Tom Corbett.

The Governor walked through the manufacturing plant on Thursday where dozens of skilled laborers have found a niche in the gas drilling boom.

They are building portable storage tanks for frack water used in the drilling process.

“I was speaking with T. Boone Pickens”, Gov. Corbett told ETC employees.  “You have to understand you are the Saudi Arabia of natural gas in Pennsylvania.”

Earlier this year, the plant on Iron Street was relatively empty and its owner in bankruptcy.

Bill Polacek, the founder of Johnstown Welding and Fabrication, had an idea on how to cash in on the marcellus shale boom.  Now 80 workers have family sustaining jobs.

“When I came through here earlier this year there were 3 cars. I find myself counting the cars”, said Polacek.  “It’s a measurement of success if people are employed.  Well, I stopped counting cars.”

Cambria County is on the fridge of the drilling rush, but Governor Corbett praised local leaders for finding a creative way to create these jobs. 

“I tell people these jobs are not going to people from out of state.  The workers here are building the tanks necessary to protect the environment”, said Gov. Corbett.  “Their hard work is getting noticed by the drilling companies, this is great.”

Congressman Mark Critz joined the governor on a tour of the facility. 

He said it once again proves that people in Western Pennsylvania are ready to roll up their sleeves and understand the meaning of a hard day’s work.

“We do it right here in Pennsylvania.”  Critz said, “This is a testament of look we take care of ourselves, do the right jobs, and we can make things happen here.  Just give us an opportunity.”

Many others may get that opportunity in the New Year. 

Drilling companies are placing more orders and ETC hopes to add 70 additional jobs in 2012.