Dustin Howard's path to success wasn’t traditional—it was built on grit, hard work,
and a desire to create a better life for himself and his family. Now, as a student
in Odessa College’s Continuing Education program earning his HVAC (Heating, Ventilation,
and Air Conditioning) certificate, he’s not just gaining skills—he’s rewriting his
story.
Dustin’s education was disrupted early. After dropping out in 8th grade due to constant
moves—sometimes three schools in one year—he never had the stability to thrive. “I
never knew what grade they’d put me in,” he said. “It was just chaos.”
So, he turned to work. Over the years, Dustin took on all kinds of blue-collar jobs.
In 2010, he left a job at McDonald’s for the oilfield. “My first paycheck was more
than double what I made at McDonald’s,” he said. “That kind of money changed my life.”
He earned hundreds of job-specific certifications, but none transferred when he changed
employers.
Then the pandemic hit. Like many, Dustin found himself out of work. It was a hard
time—but also a turning point. His wife, who works at Odessa College, urged him to
return to school. “She kept telling me to get my GED and train for a long-term career,”
he said. “But I was afraid of failing.”
That fear lingered until one day, his air conditioner broke. “I enrolled in the HVAC
class to fix my AC,” Dustin said with a smile. “I never imagined it would lead me
here.”
In class, Dustin discovered something unexpected—confidence. “I’ve done really well,
and I’m just two points away from earning my GED.” Even before finishing the program,
he landed a job in HVAC.
“The best part is, my certification goes with me. It’s mine. My self-confidence has
grown so much, and I finally feel in control of my future. Going back to school changed
my life.”
Dustin’s story is a powerful reminder: it’s never too late to start over—and sometimes,
the right opportunity begins with a broken air conditioner and a lot of courage.
Odessa College is proud to spotlight Dustin Howard—a determined learner and a shining
example of what’s possible when you believe in yourself.