Population, business growth in Odessa create demand in construction industry

Fast growth often creates unexpected opportunities in already thriving sectors, and in Odessa, Texas, there is space for expansion in the existing construction industry. Year-over-year population growth in Odessa, coupled with the construction demands created by new businesses, generates favorable conditions for companies ready to grow. An experienced workforce and access to new contracts and bidding opportunities can help enterprises start strong in Odessa and scale quickly to meet future demands in the Permian Basin.

Large-scale business construction offers new opportunities

Ongoing and recently completed building projects for expanding and relocating businesses have intensified demand in Odessa, a city with deep energy roots in the heart of the oil-rich Permian Basin. The world’s largest direct-air carbon capture facility, STRATOS, is under construction just outside the city and will start commercial operation in mid-2025. A second major project reaching capacity in mid-2025 is the Odessa concrete company, GCC, which will produce over one million metric tons annually to meet increased demand.

While Odessa is home to notable construction companies, rapid growth requires a fast turnaround of projects, and the city has fewer large-scale firms than comparative metropolitan areas. As the renewable energy, manufacturing and healthcare sectors continue to grow in Odessa, the need for residential properties, commercial spaces and related infrastructure increases, offering significant potential for emerging enterprises ready to launch and expand in construction. Closing this gap will allow companies to thrive while keeping revenue associated with Odessa’s growth in the local economy.

Population growth in Odessa drives demand

The steady population increases in Odessa amplify opportunities for single-family home construction and property development every year. In 2024, approximately 930 new home construction permits were issued in Odessa, according to the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University. The tally represents year-over-year growth and follows the successes Odessa has experienced with greater economic diversification. Multi-family and multi-use construction projects will also be necessary to ensure appropriate housing supply for a range of incomes. Similar potential extends from Odessa to the larger Permian Basin region as population growth continues, delivering a continuous stream of projects for construction companies to secure.

Local colleges make partnerships and certifications easy

Career and technical training colleges in Odessa are laser-focused on preparing students for the job market and eagerly partner with businesses to fill critical roles as students pursue certifications or additional training. Odessa College delivers dynamic continuing education programs designed to pivot to meet workforce needs efficiently. The college encourages contractors and companies to coordinate with the department to develop necessary industry-specific training or courses. These services are offered in addition to already established pathways in electrical, HVAC, and other trades at the college. 

Dr. Tiffany Price, Associate Vice-President at Odessa College, reports many training program timelines are under 20 weeks. For example, HVAC is offered in 12 weeks. 

“We want to reduce the time it takes to receive the training people need to get into the workforce quickly while ensuring they are capable and competent workers,” Price said, noting customized programs can be implemented in-house or on-site. 

Contact the Odessa Development Corporation today to explore construction and adjacent opportunities in Odessa.