PHASE III: KEY METRICS

OVERALL NOTABLE OUTCOMES
PHASE III

Phase III of the Wyoming Innovation Partnership has demonstrated the power of collaboration between higher education, workforce development, and industry. The Phase III report highlights measurable results and lasting impact across the state.

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DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE

AGRICULTURE

ENERGY

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

HEALTHCARE

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

MANUFACTURING

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

PARTNERSHIP INFRASTRUCTURE

DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE

The WIP is driving digital infrastructure forward by building and strengthening capacity for research, education, and workforce training across the state. Initiatives like the Wyoming Data Hub continue to grow through new staff, advanced equipment, and statewide partnerships that support data-driven decision-making, while also giving students hands-on experience through internships and research. At the same time, new degree pathways in computing and software development, paired with emerging programs in AI and cybersecurity, are creating opportunities for students to gain practical skills in high-demand fields.

AGRICULTURE

Agriculture remains at the heart of Wyoming’s economy. WIP-backed efforts in precision agriculture are equipping producers and students with cutting-edge tools like autonomous machinery and data-driven systems, while partnerships with schools and industry are strengthening outreach and experiential learning across the state. Controlled Environment Agriculture is expanding through new facilities, coursework, and collaborations that open doors to sustainable, high-yield food production, while the Ranch Management and Agricultural Leadership program is preparing future leaders through strong transfer pathways, internships, and community engagement. These initiatives are cultivating a workforce ready to carry Wyoming’s agricultural legacy into the future.

ENERGY

Energy has always been central to Wyoming’s economy, and the WIP is preparing its workforce for both traditional and emerging energy sectors. Programs in Powerline Technology and Substation Technology are producing job-ready graduates who are already finding employment with utilities and cooperatives across the state, while Electrical and Instrumentation training continues to expand in response to new energy demands like nuclear power and carbon capture. At the same time, WIP is helping to pioneer the future of energy through the Blue Hydrogen program, which is advancing research and global collaboration to establish Wyoming as a leader in hydrogen production and infrastructure. With the launch of Nuclear Technology programming at Western Wyoming Community College, students now have direct pathways into upcoming sectors within the energy industry.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Entrepreneurship is a vital driver of Wyoming’s economy, and communities across the state are gaining new opportunities to innovate and grow through WIP efforts. At the University of Wyoming, initiatives like the Venture MBA, Entrepreneur-in-Residence activities, and the Entrepreneurship Mentoring Program are strengthening business education and connecting students and start-ups with world-class expertise. The Creative Economy project is fueling Wyoming’s artistic sector through workshops, competitions, and seed funding, while makerspaces are expanding access to technology, innovation, and hands-on learning from Sheridan to Laramie. At Central Wyoming College, the Bootstrap Collaborative Center for Innovation has already supported more than 270 entrepreneurs and 35 new businesses, while the new Business Studio at LCCC is helping local innovators turn ideas into sustainable companies. With additional efforts like statewide ecosystem mapping, WIP is bringing greater visibility and coordination to Wyoming’s entrepreneurial resources.

HEALTHCARE

Healthcare workforce development is a critical focus of the WIP, with new programs expanding access to training and strengthening care across the state. At Casper College, Addiction Studies programming is preparing more Certified Addiction Practitioners and Licensed Addiction Therapists, while Gillette College has expanded simulation-based learning to better train nursing students. LCCC’s Practical Nursing program is producing homegrown nurses ready for licensure, while Eastern Wyoming College has expanded CNA and MA programming to meet demand in multiple communities. Grant programs and additional efforts are also part of these overall initiatives to build a more robust healthcare pipeline, ensuring Wyoming communities have access to skilled professionals close to home.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

Wyoming’s tourism and hospitality industry is a cornerstone of the state’s economy, and the WIP is expanding education and workforce pathways to strengthen this sector. The Jay Kemmerer WORTH Institute—evolved from the WIP-driven WORTH Initiative—is driving workforce training, research, and outreach, providing internships and higher education programs while supporting certifications and statewide curriculum development. Community colleges are enhancing opportunities across the state too, with hands-on learning, industry partnerships, and new degree and certificate pathways. All of this is designed with the goal of preparing students for careers in hospitality, outdoor recreation, culinary arts, and tourism so that Wyoming’s workforce is ready to meet industry needs while promoting economic growth and sustainable development.

MANUFACTURING

Manufacturing in Wyoming is growing, and the WIP is making sure the state’s workforce is there to tackle the challenge. Community colleges across the state are enhancing curricula, investing in advanced equipment, and providing hands-on learning opportunities in areas like CNC, robotics, automation, and advanced materials. Outreach programs are engaging K–12 students and the broader community, while programs such as Manufacturing Works are building strong partnerships with local businesses to address workforce gaps, provide industry-recognized credentials, and upskill current employees. The overall purpose of these efforts is preparing students and workers for the demands of modern manufacturing and supporting the growth and competitiveness of Wyoming’s manufacturing sector.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Developing a skilled, adaptable workforce is central to the WIP’s mission. Through targeted programs, training initiatives, and industry partnerships, Wyoming residents are gaining the skills needed to meet current and emerging workforce demands. From pre-apprenticeship pathways and internship placements to collaboration with K–12 schools, community colleges, and employers, these efforts are expanding access to hands-on learning and professional development. By aligning education with industry needs, Wyoming’s workforce will be prepared for high-demand careers that support local economies and long-term growth across the state.

PARTNERSHIP INFRASTRUCTURE

The WIP’s mission is rooted in providing tools and resources that extend the reach and impact of education statewide. Virtual reality (VR) has become a key component, offering immersive learning experiences across disciplines such as nursing, archaeology, criminal justice, and outdoor education. Complementary initiatives, like the VR library lending program and undergraduate internship support, are ensuring broad access and hands-on experience. By developing advanced systems and fostering collaborations across institutions, the WIP is strengthening Wyoming’s educational network and creating innovative learning opportunities that prepare students for success.