The expansion, which will start with a smaller pilot in four high schools between Texas and New Mexico, is being paid for by the Permian Strategic Partnership, a group funded by major energy producers.
Permian Basin
Posted in
Economy
In a hot oil and gas economy, a West Texas welder charts his own course one cup of coffee at a time
Fabian Maldonado has supported his Odessa family for years on his welding salary. Wanting more, he’s gambling that a mobile coffee trailer can withstand the booms and busts of the industry.
Posted in
Politics
In West Texas, schools hope skeptical voters will OK debt to upgrade crumbling, overcrowded buildings
The West Texas ethos of low taxes and small government has been hard for school leaders to overcome. Voters have rejected bond issues in Midland and Odessa during the last decade.
Posted in
Health care
As West Texas’ population grows, the need for more mental health care does too
Like many regions in Texas, the county jails and hospitals have been at capacity with people needing mental health help. Local leaders hope a new 200-bed facility will alleviate pressure.
Posted in
Energy
Texas leads the nation in oil production. What about industry-related deaths?
An industry leader in the Permian Basin said the new report proves safety regulations are helping. Other observers say more data is needed to understand risks of extraction.
Posted in
Economy
How an internship program hopes to end “brain drain” in Texas’ Permian Basin and other rural regions
This is the third year businesses in the Permian Basin — known for high school football and oil fields — have participated in the University of Texas at Austin program. Students this year say they are seeing their hometowns in a new way.
Posted in
Energy
West Texas gas operators released tons of excess emissions during June heat wave
When sizzling temperatures in June affected the air pressure in pipelines in West Texas, companies in five counties vented millions of pounds of natural gas and other toxins into the air.
Posted in
Energy
A Texas energy company will pay $1.3 million over pollution in the Permian Basin, EPA says
The EPA last year announced aerial surveillance of “super-emitters.” At least one other company in New Mexico faced a similar fine.
