Governor advances phase 2 of workforce enhancement initiative

SHERIDAN (WNE) — Gov. Mark Gordon announced he has advanced the second phase of the Wyoming Innovation Partnership, a workforce enhancement initiative aimed at improving opportunities for Wyoming residents to boost their incomes by receiving training and earning degrees in high-growth fields.
 
Gordon awarded more than $26 million in total funding, which was appropriated by the Wyoming Legislature to advance the second phase of the WIP.
 
The projects and programs were selected based on an evaluation of short- and long-term metrics, outcomes and collaboration to support a resilient workforce and economy.
 
“These funds will help us to expand and continue our efforts to build a well-trained workforce of the future in high-wage and high-growth fields,” Gordon said. 
 
Funded applications came from all eight of Wyoming’s community colleges, the University of Wyoming, the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services and the Wyoming Department of Education. 
 
The applications included projects from the six existing programs (consortial infrastructure; digital infrastructure and technology; energy; entrepreneurship; health care; and tourism and hospitality) and three additional component areas in manufacturing, workforce development and agriculture.
Newly funded agriculture proposals included precision agriculture, ranch management and controlled environment agriculture. Additional proposals in advanced manufacturing and internship development for young adults and construction trades were also included in the new component areas.
Gordon launched WIP in 2021 to modernize and focus Wyoming’s efforts to develop a resilient workforce and economy. 
 
The partnership involves the University of Wyoming, the state’s community colleges, Wyoming Business Council and Department of Workforce Services.
 
This story was published on April 15, 2023.