Moving

Since you're relocating as a couple, it would be best to focus on a location in which your fiance can find work... you have more flexibility since you are a nurse. A degree in 'criminal justice' does not equate to qualifications as a peace officer. He will need to investigate eligibility requirements and hiring practices in various locations if that is the direction in which he wishes to go. If you're looking for something in the Houston vicinity, you may want to investigate Huntsville. The state prison in that location is always hiring corrections officers - I believe they provide training for newbies. It's a very nice city about an hour north of H-town in a very green 'foresty' part of the state. Nice hospitals & home to Sam Houston State University.

Since he has no previous experience in the "oil industry" -- btw, we call it the "oil business" - pronounced 'Awl Bidness' - LOL. But I digress. I have relatives who have/are working in this sector. There are generally three types of 'entry level' pathways. New grad petrochemical engineers and geologists can always count on jobs. Brand new Computer Science/IT folks can find jobs. Certified welders and pipefitters are in demand. - but without educational credentials or a skilled trade, the only other way is manual labor - e.g., roughneck, roustabout mud-logger, tool pusher (yep, those colorful job titles all exist). ... and they do hire and train newbies. Wages are significantly higher than other types of jobs, but the hours are long and working conditions are dirty and somewhat dangerous. Just give it a google... there are a lot of information sources and recruiters.

The down side? Oil production work (getting it out of the ground) takes place in locations that may not have the most desirable living conditions. Housing may be scarce... but the rural hospitals that serve those areas are bursting at the seams, so you probably won't have much trouble finding a job.

Best of luck to you! Keep us posted on your progress.