In 2021, the Wyoming Innovation Partnership—or WIP—set out to address critical workforce gaps across the energy, healthcare, tourism, and entrepreneurship sectors while streamlining collaboration across Wyoming’s higher education institutions. In 2025, the WIP is continuing to transform communities across the state, building workforce pipelines, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth. 

Central Wyoming College has become a major driving force behind entrepreneurship in the state through efforts such as the Bootstrap Collaborative. New degrees in hospitality, tourism, and event planning prepare students for leadership roles in these growing fields. 

At Gillette College, investments in advanced simulation equipment are revolutionizing clinical training by providing students with hands-on, real-world experience in a controlled learning environment. These cutting-edge tools are equipping future professionals with the skills and confidence needed to excel in vital roles across Wyoming’s diverse industries. 

Northwest College is enhancing outdoor education with certifications and new training spaces. These programs connect students with opportunities in domestic and international tourism while supporting Wyoming’s local economy. It’s also collaborating with Sheridan College and UW to support the state’s creative economy, as well as being a part of the statewide software 

At the University of Wyoming, the newly established School of Computing works across all nine higher education institutions, inspiring students as early as elementary school. The Wyoming Data Hub expands digital infrastructure and decision-making tools, while the WORTH Initiative–now the WORTH Institute–boosts the tourism and hospitality sector with applied research and workforce training. Programs like Controlled Environment Agriculture and research efforts from Blue Hydrogen are also bringing Wyoming to the forefront of developing and strengthening sustainable energy and agricultural innovations.