ABOUT WIP
The Wyoming Innovation Partnership (WIP) was created at the request of Governor Gordon in 2021 to modernize and focus Wyoming’s efforts to develop a resilient workforce and economy. The effort aims to better align Wyoming’s economic development agenda by increasing collaborations between state entities and ultimately local partners. The partnership involves the University of Wyoming, the state’s community colleges, Wyoming Business Council, Department of Workforce Services, and Wyoming Department of Education with an emphasis on developing innovative solutions that support and enhance Wyoming’s economy, workforce, and sources of revenue.
WIP will use data and metrics to make decisions and intends to build on and complement existing state efforts in support of Wyoming’s economic development strategy (e.g., Wyoming's Tomorrow, Learn to Earn, Wyoming Works, WY Next Gen Sector Partnerships, Workforce Development Council, Higher Educational Attainment Exec Council and others), and recognizes the need for healthy and sustainably funded institutions to do this work.
HOW IS THE WIP ORGANIZED?
The PSG is composed of the presidents, of the nine public institutions of higher education, as well as representatives from the Governor’s Office, the CEO of the Wyoming Business Council, the Director of the Department of Workforce Services, the Executive Director of the Wyoming Community College Commission, and the Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction, or their designee.
HOW WILL THE WIP MEASURE SUCCESS?
New Business Starts – The successful launch of new Wyoming-based businesses as a direct or indirect outcome of WIP efforts. New jobs added to Wyoming’s economy as a result of WIP efforts either through new business starts, the expansion of existing businesses, or the recruitment of new businesses to the state.
Average Wage Increases – The increase in average/median wages associated with graduates of WIP programs and represented in core and new industry sectors aligned with the State’s economic development strategy.
Increased Research Activity – Applied research activity aligned with the state’s economic development strategy with a focus on increasing investment, patents generated, intellectual property documented, and market commercialization.
Increased Enrollment and Graduate Retention – The number of individuals who participate in WIP associated programming and/or activities and the rate at which those who earn postsecondary credentials from WIP institutions are retained in Wyoming in jobs.
TIMEFRAMES AND PHASING
Although coordinated efforts between the community colleges and the University of Wyoming are expected to continue well into the future for the betterment of the State, the WIP initiative is organized around three phases:
(November 2021 - June 2023)
Phase I of the WIP initiative is focused primarily on infrastructure support, and early, immediate focus on measured activities intended to launch the WIP’s collaborative, programmatic efforts.
(July 2023 – June 2024)
Phase II is a larger effort focused on significant workforce development programming, research and innovation. Coordination of efforts will make it easier for the WIP institutions to collaborate and work together, and large-scale collaborative efforts that improve institutional productivity and outcomes and provide a return on investment for Wyoming.
(July 2024 - Beyond)
Phase III of the WIP initiative is informed by data and outcomes and will provide sustainability to the developed programing and further coordinate efforts for long term culture change. Data and metrics will guide decisions and collaboration will support solidifying transformational strategies to help Wyoming and our communities thrive long-term.
INITIAL INVESTMENTS AND SUSTAINABILITY PLANNING
The WIP acknowledges Phase I, II and III funding are time-limited and not a source of on-going funding for programmatic activities. Concurrent with using ARP “seed funding” to jump start these programs, WIP is exploring alternative funding sources as part of its sustainability planning and will use data and metrics to drive decisions.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND LINKS
Post-secondary Educational Attainment 5- and 10-Year Strategic Plan
In order to increase the level of higher education in our state’s workforce, Wyoming leaders have worked together to establish statewide goals for increasing the number of degrees, certificates, and certifications, also called education credentials, held by Wyoming citizens. Download the PDF >
Wyoming Works
Wyoming Works provides programs and resources for adult students to learn a skill and secure employment. Download the PDF >
BOOTS (Business Occupational Outlook Toolsets)
Identify educational and business opportunities in Wyoming using publicly available tool sets. Visit the website >
Wyoming SLEDS (Statewide Longitudinal Education Data System)
SLEDS uses longitudinal data linked from a broad range of educational and workforce data sources. SLEDS will inform educational and workforce programs into which significant taxpayer funding is invested. Visit the website >