Building Stronger Communities in the Permian: The Story of Permian Strategic Partnership

When people think of the Permian Basin, energy production usually comes to mind. But for Tracee Bentley, president and CEO of the Permian Strategic Partnership (PSP), the story is much bigger. 

“With PSP, we’re showing what’s possible when energy companies invest directly in the future of our communities,” Bentley said.  

Formed in 2018, PSP began when a handful of CEOs realized they faced the same challenge: how to attract and retain talent in the Permian Basin. Families considering moving to the area wanted strong schools, accessible healthcare, safer roads, and opportunities for workforce development. Addressing those challenges individually was overwhelming, but together companies saw an opportunity to pool their resources and expertise. 

That idea grew into what is now a coalition of 27 energy companies and two major university systems, representing roughly 85% of the region’s workforce. In just over six years, PSP members have invested $200 million in philanthropic investments — an effort that has unlocked nearly $2 billion in community support and collaborative investments. 

“It’s just absolutely amazing the time that our member company employees spend really shaping each initiative and project that we bring to the table in each of these areas,” Bentley said. 

The results of PSP’s work are visible across the region. The organization expanded mental health services by launching Permian Basin Counseling and Guidance, providing brick-and-mortar offices and telemedicine across West Texas and Southeast New Mexico. They also helped build a new behavioral health hospital near Midland International Airport set to open next fall.  

“We’re so proud and we’re excited about all of the great stories that are coming from people who get to now see treatment that they otherwise wouldn’t,” Bentley said. 

PSP is also helping local schools thrive by equipping students, teachers, and principals with the tools and training they need to succeed. On the roads, their PSP’s Highway Emergency Response Operator (HERO) truck program offers roadside assistance on busy highways, reducing accidents and making travel safer for families and workers. 

These types of efforts show how PSP’s work reaches well beyond the oilfield, touching daily life across the Permian. 

And that’s where the broader community comes in. Whether it’s by helping spread the word about these initiatives, offering professional expertise, or simply staying engaged in conversations about the region’s future, individuals can play a role in strengthening the Permian Basin. Continued collaboration is what will keep these efforts moving forward. 

“We are out here literally changing lives by way of education, healthcare, workforce and roads. Being aware of this one-of-a-kind public/private partnership and sharing the progress we are seeing in our communities is important,” Bentley said.