I'm pretty sure this is an aloe brevifolia.

It hasn't changed much since I brought it home probably 6 months ago. It's in a cactus and succulent mix now, but it was in regular dirt from the store.

I noticed the leaves were a little wrinkly so I figured it was time to give it some water. I noticed that the stem has turned woody, or maybe it's just really dried out?

I'm wondering if this is normal, or maybe it's due to underwatering, the rest of it still looks like it could do something or be saved if it needs to be chopped off.

Please help me save this guy!