Building Momentum for Wyoming's Future Building a resilient and prosperous future for Wyoming remains one of the state’s highest priorities. That future depends on a workforce that is both skilled and adaptable, prepared to meet the evolving needs of businesses and industries across our state. Phase III of the Wyoming Innovation Partnership (WIP) has been the culmination of the incredible potential of collaboration among higher education, workforce development, and the private sector. Phase III sharpened the WIP’s focus on innovation, data-informed decision-making, and high-impact outcomes that drive real results for Wyoming’s economy and communities.
“I am proud of the momentum we have built together and committed to sustaining this effort in the years ahead. Through WIP, we are not just preparing Wyoming’s workforce — we are investing in Wyoming’s future.” - Governor Gordon |
WIP Successes at a Glance 39 new programs launched, opening doors to emerging career pathways.
460 enrolled internships, giving students valuable real-world experience while strengthening industry connections.
$19.4 million secured in external funding to expand educational and workforce opportunities.
1,721 postsecondary enrollments supported, helping more Wyomingites pursue high-demand skills and credentials.
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One standout achievement was the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation, Tourism, and Hospitality (WORTH) Initiative. What began as a WIP-backed project gained so much traction that, with the help of incredible benefactors, it evolved into a first-of-its-kind institute—The Jay Kemmerer WORTH Institute—at the University of Wyoming, cementing the Cowboy State’s role as a national leader in outdoor recreation and hospitality workforce development. The successes in Phase III demonstrate that Wyoming is stronger when education, workforce development, and industry leaders work together. The WIP has expanded training opportunities, strengthened ties to business and industry, and ensured that workforce initiatives are grounded in the real needs of employers. These partnerships are vital not just for today’s workforce, but for building a foundation of long-term economic resilience. |
What’s Next for the WIP? As Phase III comes to a close, the WIP is already preparing for the future. A new partnership with the Wyoming Business Alliance (WBA) and its affiliated Wyoming Heritage Foundation (WHF) will help sustain and expand the scope of the WIP. With decades of experience cultivating business relationships, advancing economic initiatives, and leveraging private funding and grants, WBA and WHF are uniquely positioned to guide the WIP into its next chapter.
The WIP will remain Governor Gordon’s initiative, with legislative funding secured through June of 2026 to ensure continuity as new partnerships take shape and programs continue as planned. This new phase of collaboration will even open more doors to explore more opportunities for federal funding, private investment, and broader support, all while reducing political impact. The original vision of the WIP will remain: when Wyoming unites its resources, expertise, and determination, the results benefit the entire state, from students and workers to industries and communities. CONTACT
Lauren Schoenfeld
Director, Wyoming Innovation Partnership
Wyoming Business Alliance
lschoenfeld@wyoba.com |
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