LyondellBasell Matagorda Complex helps establish welding program at Palacios High School

PALACIOS, TX – With the help of a $20,000 grant from the LyondellBasell Matagorda Complex, a new welding facility will provide Palacios ISD high schoolers new welding equipment, resources and skills that will help them pave their way into the petrochemical industry.  

“What makes the partnership between LyondellBasell and Palacios ISD unique and effective goes beyond the financial investment. LyondellBasell's investment of time is what makes this partnership so effective,” Palacios ISD Superintendent Dr. Jared Duncum said. “When companies can work with our students to demonstrate and teach the skills needed in the workforce, it brings the curriculum our teachers deliver every day to life. It also lets students hear directly from employers regarding local workforce opportunities and allows employers to work with students and get to know them before hiring them as potential employees.”   

In addition to the grant, the Matagorda Complex also donated two welding machines, one scrap metal hopper and scrap metal. While touring the newly built Palacios High School, which opened its doors to students in August 2024, LYB employees saw welding demonstrations from students in the program.  

“The opportunity that we can offer is unique in the workforce. It’s our mission to educate these students and spur some interest and help develop them so they are ready to work in our industry,” said Scott Grand, Matagorda Complex’s Maintenance and Reliability Manager. “They will need jobs, and we will need people. We appreciate Palacios ISD, their students and the willingness to allow us into their home.”  

LYB also partners with PISD to advance the district’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program for welding with the goal of graduating students with a certificate in pipe welding.  

“The new welding program sets students up for potential promising careers and exemplifies the bond between LYB and our local community,” Matagorda Plant Manager Tim Carnell said. “This grant is about investing in the next generation.”