(OAKDALE, LA) — SOWELA Technical Community College in Oakdale held a special ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, August 3, to unveil a new multipurpose training space while also showcasing innovative STEM energy education projects made possible through a $225,000 contribution from ExxonMobil.
The newly opened multipurpose space was funded through a $75,000 contribution from ExxonMobil and renovated earlier this year to meet the growing demand for training and meeting space in Allen Parish. Previously consisting of a conference room, storage, and office space, the area has been transformed into a 1,300-square-foot modern classroom outfitted with training tables and enhanced presentation technology.
“As the SOWELA Oakdale campus continues to grow, the need for additional training and meeting space is needed,” said SOWELA Chancellor Dr. Neil Aspinwall. “We are very appreciative of the funding provided by ExxonMobil that has allowed the renovation and repurpose of existing space. Our business and industry partners, as well as our students, now have a modern training environment that strengthens our mission of workforce development.”
In addition to the facility investment, SOWELA hosted a STEM Energy Professional Development Program Showcase in collaboration with the Allen Parish School Board and ExxonMobil. The event highlighted energy-focused research and classroom projects developed by 40 Southwest Louisiana K-12 educators following a three-day training program.
Educators presented innovative lesson plans centered on alternative energy, emphasizing hands-on learning and real-world applications designed to better prepare students for future careers in STEM and energy-related fields. Participants left the program with customized curriculum materials, strengthened teaching and leadership skills, and an expanded professional network.
“Attending the STEM Energy Professional Development at SOWELA Technical Community College was a mind-opening experience,” said Allen Parish Schoolboard Teacher Brandy Wennerstrom. “Collaborating with fellow teachers while diving into project-based learning in various STEM fields completely transformed my perspective on real-world teaching and learning.”
The STEM Energy Professional Development Program was made possible through a $150,000 ExxonMobil Foundation grant and is now in its second year.
“Expanding access to training is essential to strengthening the local workforce and supporting Louisiana’s economic growth,” said Alvin Abraham, global manager of corporate giving at ExxonMobil. “We’re proud to support SOWELA Oakdale in creating opportunities that help students and educators build the skills needed to succeed in today’s evolving economy.”
SOWELA Oakdale serves approximately 110 students and offers four on-ground programs in Industrial Electrical, Industrial Instrumentation, Practical Nursing (LPN), and Welding. The college is currently registering for the Fall 2026 semester. For more information or to apply, visit www.sowela.edu/oakdale.
For nine consecutive years, SOWELA has been named Louisiana’s top community college by Niche and WalletHub. SOWELA graduates also rank first in the region and third statewide for highest median salaries, reinforcing the college’s commitment to workforce development, student success, and economic impact throughout Louisiana.