When you embark on a project as big and impactful as the CO-WY Engine, celebrations are called for. Recently, our team had the chance to celebrate at a community event in Wyoming, marking our partner state’s first big event ushering in the Engine’s work.
But this wasn't just any gathering - it was a convergence of visionaries, each set to shape Wyoming's workforce and economy for generations to come.
Among the speakers were representatives from 3 organizations vital to our Engine’s work. First, the Wyoming Business Council, serving as the linchpin in economic development strategy, and workforce development, emphasized the critical importance of collaboration among the state's key institutions. Their message was clear: unity is crucial in driving progress in the right direction.
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has stood firmly behind the initiative from the earliest phases of ideation, showcasing the state's unwavering commitment to this ambitious endeavor. At the event, Governor Gordon highlighted the opportunity for WY to redefine its approach to workforce development, leveraging the Engine to grow new industries, and laying the foundation for lasting economic growth.
And finally, the University of Wyoming shared a strategic overhaul tailored to meet the University’s evolving needs. This restructuring positions the institution to tackle pressing challenges head-on, aligning seamlessly with the climate resilience aspirations of the Engine. An endeavor of this size is no small feat; I was so pleased to hear of this development and can’t wait to see what outcomes it yields.
Together, these voices echoed a call for unity, innovation, and progress across our regions. Ultimately, this event reminded me that the CO-WY Engine isn't just a project - in many ways, it's also a movement.