Building the STEM Continuum: A West Texas Community-Based Approach to Empowering Tomorrow's Leaders

In an age where STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) careers are increasingly vital, developing a robust pipeline of future talent is essential. Unfortunately, many students face barriers such as limited resources, lack of hands-on experiences, and inconsistent engagement, especially in areas like West Texas. Midland, Texas—home to thriving industries like oil and gas— is an example where STEM opportunities are plentiful, yet many students still lack the preparation needed to take full advantage of them.

To address these challenges, a unique partnership has emerged between local industry leaders, educators, and innovators, spearheading transformative programs that connect students to real-world applications of STEM. At the forefront of this initiative is syGlass, a cutting-edge educational platform leveraging virtual reality (VR) to revolutionize the learning experience. By allowing students to interact with real-world scientific data in an immersive and collaborative environment, syGlass bridges the gap between traditional education and the modern demands of the workforce.

One of the most powerful aspects of syGlass is its ability to engage students with tools used by researchers and industry professionals, fostering curiosity and critical thinking. Students are no longer confined to textbook learning; instead, they can dive into large-scale visualizations of scientific data, such as 3D medical imaging or geological core samples, gaining hands-on experience in ways previously unimaginable. This kind of exposure not only excites students but helps them see the direct connections between their education and future careers.

Juniors Femi Odubiyi (left) and Madilyne Ochoa (right) explore syGlass VR in their anatomy class.

A key partner in this effort is Diamondback Energy, a major player in the local energy industry, which has stepped up to support STEM education in Midland by establishing the Diamondback STEM Lab, powered by syGlass. This initiative brings state-of-the-art technology directly into classrooms, providing students with unparalleled access to tools and learning opportunities in various STEM fields. According to Ashley Colquitt, Public Affairs at Diamondback Energy, "We believe our future leaders deserve the best opportunities to succeed, and we’re committed to enriching the educational environment in our community."

The partnership between syGlass and Diamondback Energy goes beyond simply providing resources. By creating a career connection program, they offer students direct access to industry experts through a multiplayer VR platform. For instance, students interested in geosciences can interact with professional geophysicists in real-time, exploring data sets and asking career-specific questions—all within a VR environment. This program transforms the way students learn and connect with potential career paths, giving them a head start in building professional relationships and gaining insights into STEM occupations.

But the impact doesn't stop at high school. Midland College students also benefit from this ecosystem, as Diamondback Energy and syGlass work with the college to create dual credit opportunities. By earning college credits in STEM fields while still in high school, students are set on a path toward higher education and career success. As Brandi Havner, Dean of Allied Health at Midland College, shared, "Students and faculty were able to manipulate medical imaging data like CT scans in a virtual environment, sparking enthusiasm and excitement about the future of health sciences education."

Brandi Havner, Dean of Allied Health at Midland College, explores CT scans of the human body in syGlass virtual reality.

The role of local schools, particularly Midland ISD, has been crucial in these efforts. The district’s administration, teachers, and leaders recognize the importance of equipping students with future-ready STEM skills, and they are fully committed to integrating these technologies into their classrooms. Dr. Amanda Melcher, Executive Director of Teaching & Learning at Midland ISD, points out, "We want our students to have access to the best resources possible while in high school so they are ready to enter college and the workforce confidently."

Through the collective efforts of syGlass, Diamondback Energy, and Midland ISD, the Midland community is building more than just a STEM talent pipeline—they are fostering a STEM ecosystem that empowers students to become lifelong learners and innovators. By investing in these programs, the community is ensuring its own economic vitality while contributing to the global advancement of science and technology.

In a rapidly changing world, partnerships like this highlight the power of collaboration to shape a brighter future. Together, communities, businesses, and educators can cultivate the leaders of tomorrow, bridging the gap between education and the workforce and ensuring students have the tools and opportunities to succeed in STEM fields.