Across New Mexico, students are showing up, putting in the work, and building something for their future—and NMOGA is proud to recognize that.
Through NMOGA’s Ultimate Backpack Giveaway, we’ve been able to travel across the state and celebrate students in a way that’s meaningful for them and their entire classroom. Each winning student receives a backpack filled with everything they need to succeed—including an iPad, keyboard, and school supplies—along with a pizza party for their class.
Celebrating Students Across New Mexico
- Nazreth Diaz, 6th grade, Vista Middle School (Las Cruces)
- Emma Gonzales, 10th grade, Hobbs High School (Hobbs)
- Harlan Schottmuller, José Barrios Elementary School (Silver City)
- Uriah Davis, 10th grade, Bloomfield High School (Bloomfield)
- Casey Woodbar, 9th grade, Sue Cleveland High School (Rio Rancho)
These recognitions are about more than a prize. They’re a chance to show students that their effort is seen—and that their future matters. These efforts are made possible through collaboration with educators, school leaders, and community partners across New Mexico.
NMOGA also welcomes the opportunity to partner with schools across the state to recognize student achievement and support classrooms. Educators and school leaders interested in bringing the Ultimate Backpack Giveaway to their campus are encouraged to connect with us.
Connecting Students to What Comes Next
The Ultimate Backpack Giveaway is one piece of a bigger effort: helping students understand what comes after school and what opportunities exist for them right here in New Mexico.
NMOGA’s Pathways to Success website was built to make that easier. Students can explore careers, learn about different industries, and start connecting their interests to real opportunities. Whether that’s working hands-on in the field, pursuing technical training, or building a career in engineering, technology, or communications, there is a path for everyone.
Students who sign up on the site are also automatically entered to win an Ultimate Backpack Giveaway—making it simple to get started and be recognized for taking that first step.
Explore and sign up at pathways.nmoga.org
These efforts are part of a broader commitment to strengthen New Mexico’s workforce pipeline by connecting students to real career opportunities across the state.
Supporting the Educators Behind Every Student
Every student who succeeds has someone behind them making it possible.
Through Pathways to Success, educators can access classroom resources, connect with industry speakers, and bring real-world career awareness into their classrooms.
NMOGA is also recognizing educators directly through a Teacher Gift Card Giveaway. During Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4–8, 2026), five educators across New Mexico will receive $500 gift cards as a way to say thank you for the work they do every day.
New Mexico’s oil and gas industry contributes $2.4 billion annually to education funding, supporting students, teachers, and schools across the state.
Investing in New Mexico’s Future
NMOGA and Energizing Our Future New Mexico are focused on making sure students have both the support they need today and a clear view of what’s possible ahead.
A backpack, a classroom celebration, a conversation about careers—each of these moments is part of something bigger.
Helping students see a future for themselves—and a path to get there.
