Oil Show pumps out big scholarship bucks

Area colleges and universities got a boost Monday from directors of the Permian Basin International Oil Show, who said their total donations of $310,000 would fund scholarships not only for engineering students but also for welders, truck drivers, technicians and others in the oilfield’s technical trades.

2025 PBIOS President Martin Graves of Odessa announced that $100,000 would go to The University of Texas Permian Basin, $80,000 each to Odessa College and Midland College and $50,000 to Texas Tech University.

“Since 2007 the PBIOS Board of Directors has donated $1.71 million to local colleges, reinforcing our commitment to education in the oil and gas sector,” Graves said during a 3 p.m. news conference at the UTPB Engineering Building. “The primary purpose of PBIOS, held in October of odd-numbered years, is to provide education, information and activities directly related to the oil and gas industry.

“We are proud to support UTPB in their mission to educate and train the future leaders and professionals of our industry. Their efforts are vital to both our industry and our community.

“These donations extend beyond engineering students as they include welders, truck drivers, technicians and other critical roles that are needed in the most active basin in the country.”

Highlighting the significance of the technical programs at Odessa and Midland colleges, Graves added, “The graduates from UTPB, including young engineers and business students, are crucial.

“Equally important are those who choose technical trades over traditional college educations by attending the technical programs at Odessa and Midland colleges. These dedicated and talented local graduates are essential to our industry’s growth and they often drive the innovation that our region is famous for.

“We’re looking forward to another good show and to keep on going.”

UTPB President Sandra Woodley said it’s good to count on the PBIOS scholarship money.

“It’s such a great asset to this university to have this opportunity in the community to help our students,” Dr. Woodley said. “Scholarships are one of our highest priorities, making sure our students can go to college. It’s an amazing asset to us. It’s all important. My son is a machinist in Alabama. He went to a community college near Auburn.”

OC Vice President for Advancement Allisa Cornelius said OC “is so honored and grateful to have partners and organizations like the Permian Basin International Oil Show that seek out opportunities to support eduction and to increase opportunities for students.

“We look forward to expanding our program offerings and ensuring that our students have the skills they need to be successful in the energy sector,” Cornelius said.

Oil Show Executive Director Tony Fry said innovation and technology have emerged strongly within 100 miles of Midland and Odessa over the last decade.

“The young men and women educated at our local colleges and universities are indispensable to the success of our industry and region,” Fry said. “The PBIOS Board is honored to support these institutions by funding programs essential for the future innovations that are needed to meet the increasing energy demands of our nation.

“Spanning its history back to 1940, the Permian Basin International Oil Show stands as one of the most enduring and extensive oil and gas exhibitions globally. Over the decades, this prestigious international event has consistently unveiled the forefront of industry technology, paid homage to the industry’s rich history, fostered connections among individuals from every corner of the oil and gas sector and supported local colleges to help fund essential programs and educate and train future industry professionals.”