Workforce Development in Odessa Looks Like Training Workers, Supporting Employers, and Strengthening the Local Economy

Odessa's workforce development strategy is built for consistent, measurable impact. The Odessa Development Corporation (ODC) continues to partner with Odessa College and the University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB) to ensure that local talent is ready to meet the needs of growing and evolving industries.

Whether supporting new business attractions or helping existing employers scale, every workforce initiative is designed to remove barriers to employment, deliver job-ready skills, and strengthen Odessa's business climate.

Short-Term Training, Long-Term Value

Odessa College plays a key role in developing the technical skills that local employers demand. Programs are structured for fast turnaround and long-term wage growth opportunities. Many students and adult learners complete short-term credentials and enter the workforce quickly, with clear paths to continued education and advancement.

"We give people their first step into good jobs," said Dr. Tiffani Price, Associate Vice President of Odessa College. "We want to reduce the time it takes to receive the training people need to enter the workforce while ensuring they are capable and competent workers."

Programs range from five-week CDL training to 12-week HVAC courses aligned with current and emerging industry needs. Odessa College also works directly with employers to create customized, credit-eligible training delivered on campus or onsite.

Targeted trainings at Odessa College include:

• Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
• HVAC and Electrical (NCCR)
• Maintenance Ready Technicians
• Construction, Carpentry, and Safety Training
• Healthcare Certifications (CNA, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Tech)
• Industry-specific programs for oil, gas, and renewable energy

University Resources, Industry Results

The University of Texas Permian Basin complements technical training with innovation-driven economic development. Its applied research centers, entrepreneurship support, and specialized institutes directly support high-value sectors like advanced manufacturing, energy, and water technology.

Key initiatives include:

• The Texas Water and Energy Institute, advancing water treatment technology for energy and municipal use
• Blackstone LaunchPad provides mentorship and startup resources to student entrepreneurs
• America's Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at UTPB, which delivered nearly $10 million in capital infusion and helped launch 24 new businesses last year

UTPB's applied research and innovation hubs are designed to connect faculty expertise with real-world business problems. These programs help close workforce gaps, support commercialization, and provide students with valuable experience that ties directly to regional job creation.

A Workforce Strategy That Scales with Business Demand

Every workforce program supported by the ODC is tied to Odessa's broader economic development strategy. The goal is to provide local companies with a steady talent pipeline and make Odessa more attractive for site selectors and expanding employers.

Workforce development is not a side initiative.

It is a core business function, specifically one that ensures Odessa can meet the workforce needs of industries such as:

• Advanced and General Manufacturing
• Renewable Energy Manufacturing
• Carbon Capture Technology
• Medical and Healthcare Services
• Data Centers and Industrial Construction

The ODC works directly with employers, educators, and workforce agencies to ensure that training stays aligned with real demand. That coordination keeps Odessa competitive and positions the city for long-term growth.

Partner with the ODC

Businesses looking to expand in Odessa can tap into a well-aligned training ecosystem, customized workforce solutions, and a growing base of job-ready talent.

Contact the Odessa Development Corporation to learn how we can support your workforce needs.