ODESSA, TX — Odessa College’s Welding and Precision Manufacturing Technology Program received a significant investment through three donations totaling $285,500, supporting equipment upgrades, advanced robotic training, and essential student resources. The funds were formally presented during a check presentation ceremony on Wednesday, January 14, at 9:30 a.m. in the Welding Lab located in Sedate Hall on the Odessa College campus.

The contributions included:

  • $150,000 from the Permian Basin Area Foundation for welding program equipment
  • $85,500 from Lincoln Electric for a Lincoln Electric ABB Collaborative Robotic Arm (Cobot)
  • $50,000 from the Musa Family Living Trust to support the Welding Program and students’ personal protective equipment (PPE) needs

“This level of support allows us to expand opportunities, enhance hands-on training, and ensure our students are prepared to meet industry standards and workforce demands,” said Syed Muhammad Naqvi, Odessa College Department Chair of Welding and Precision Manufacturing Technology. “These donations directly strengthen our welding program and open doors for students to pursue meaningful, high-demand careers.”

The ABB Cobot Robotic Arm is one of the latest robotic technologies used in modern manufacturing. Unlike traditional industrial robots that operate in fenced-off, guarded cells, a collaborative robot is designed to safely work alongside human operators. The addition of this equipment will allow Odessa College welding students to gain hands-on experience with automation currently used in industry, increasing their employability and earning potential. Students will also be able to earn COOPER APP certification using the Cobot.

The Musa Family Living Trust donation was made in memory of Ms. Rakia Musa’s son, Jonathan Musa-Parramore, an Odessa College welding student who tragically passed away in a car accident while on his way to work. Ms. Musa has consistently expressed a strong desire to support welding students by helping provide personal protective equipment and other resources critical to their training. The gift honors her son’s memory while directly supporting student safety and success in the program.