EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP OF THE PERMIAN BASIN
Energy Pathway
Connecting classroom learning to careers in the Permian Basin’s energy industry.
Program Overview
The Energy Pathway is a regional education and workforce initiative led by the Education Partnership of the Permian Basin to prepare high school students for opportunities in the energy sector. The pathway connects rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on technical learning, industry-relevant equipment, employer engagement, and career exploration so students can better understand the wide range of careers available across the Permian Basin.
Designed in collaboration with education, industry, and workforce partners, the pathway helps students build technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and real-world experience while connecting what they learn in the classroom to the workforce opportunities that exist in their own communities. The program is designed to strengthen the regional talent pipeline and help ensure that students growing up in the Permian Basin are prepared to participate in the future of the energy industry.
Our Mission
We seek to grow the number of districts offering the energy pathway course of study, increase student enrollment in this pathway, and ultimately create more opportunities for students to pursue successful careers in the energy sector. This initiative can help bridge the skills gap, support workforce development, and drive economic growth in the energy industry.
Our Curriculum
The Energy Pathway is a four-course sequence designed to progressively build students’ knowledge, technical skills, and understanding of the energy industry while connecting classroom learning to real-world applications.
The pathway was developed through a collaborative effort involving EPPB, SREB, PetroSkills, Education Strategy Group (ESG), educators, and industry partners, bringing together expertise in education, workforce development, and the energy sector. This collaboration helps ensure the curriculum remains relevant to both student learning and the workforce needs of the Permian Basin.
Students participate in hands-on, project-based learning and explore topics such as energy systems, electrical and mechanical systems, pumps, well planning and completion, hydraulics, hydraulic fracturing, water management, safety, sustainability, and other areas relevant to the energy sector.
As students progress through the pathway, they move from foundational learning to increasingly applied experiences. The fourth course incorporates work-based learning, providing opportunities for students to apply their knowledge through internships or employer-led projects while building skills, professional connections, and greater awareness of education and career opportunities.
Ultimately, the Energy Pathway creates a connection from classroom learning to career opportunity—helping students develop relevant skills, understand the industry that surrounds their communities, and see themselves as part of the future energy workforce of the Permian Basin.
Work-Based Learning
At Carlsbad High School’s Reverse Career Fair, Energy Pathway students show employers what they’ve learned by demonstrating equipment and explaining projects on topics like artificial lift and hydraulics. Hear students describe how those conversations helped them gain confidence, make industry connections, and explore internships and job opportunities.
Get Involved
Interested in getting involved or want more information?
Contact Delma Lay, Strategic Initiatives & Collaboration Manager.