MIDLAND, Texas — In Midland College’s Petroleum Energy Program, Dylan Ruiz, a high school senior, navigates a complex training setup to learn oil leak prevention. As the energy sector evolves, even minor mistakes can have huge impacts. Ruiz, aiming to be a petroleum engineer, is among around 100 students earning dual credits in oil and gas fundamentals.
Ruiz’s family, familiar with industry fluctuations, hopes for economic growth under Donald Trump. His father’s experience of industry layoffs without a college degree highlights the sector’s volatility.
The oil and gas industry invests millions into Texas K-12 education, focusing on training young talent as veteran workers retire. Programs have gained momentum with Trump’s promises of increased fossil fuel production. Oil and gas jobs in Texas, with average salaries of $86,298 as of 2024, remain lucrative. Midland’s program trains students primarily for technician roles, supporting oil and gas extraction and production.
Kathy Shannon, a retired education advocate, emphasized the necessity of engaging students with the industry, stating, “We need those workers.” The industry’s role in shaping educational programs raises concerns about environmental impacts, a topic some Texas educators are cautious to address.
Midland College’s Petroleum Energy Program, founded with local industry support, aims to prepare students for immediate employment in the oil sector. The program saw enrollments peak at 211 in 2020-21 but has since declined. A $1.4 billion bond project aims to expand STEM education and industry partnerships at Midland Independent School District.
Industry representatives contribute to curriculum development, ensuring alignment with business needs. Companies like Chevron offer scholarships to students pursuing further education in energy production, aiming to foster the next generation of engineers and technicians.
Despite the industry’s efforts, students express concerns about environmental impacts. Some classes address these issues, highlighting industry efforts to reduce carbon footprints. The current energy job market remains dynamic, with renewable energy growth outpacing traditional sectors.
Houston’s Energy Institute High School provides alternative energy courses, funded by donations from companies like BP. The focus extends beyond fossil fuels to nuclear and renewable energy. The school’s resources attract students seeking quality education, regardless of career aspirations in the oil and gas sector.
Efforts to expose students to oil and gas careers are met with challenges, as educational materials in Texas face scrutiny over climate science content. Industry-funded initiatives, such as scholarships and museum partnerships, seek to inspire students and shape career paths. Programs like those offered by the Texas Energy Council aim to foster early interest in STEM fields.
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