March 23, 2026
Representatives from Sampson Construction, GW Mechanical, Engineering Design Associates, Mechanical Systems, Inc., Sheet Metal Specialties, Hub International Insurance, and the Wyoming Construction Coalition joined high school principals, students, and staff to discuss the opportunities available across Wyoming to support students in their next steps after graduation.
Guest speakers introduced students to the Wyoming Construction Coalition and the Wyoming Young Contractors Coalition, organizations dedicated to strengthening the state’s workforce. The Wyoming Construction Coalition exists to strengthen Wyoming’s construction industry through collaboration, workforce development, safety leadership, and advocacy while supporting a resilient industry that serves communities across the state. Through partnerships with schools, businesses, and training programs, WYCC connects youth and early-career individuals with seasoned industry professionals to support mentorship, growth, and long-term success. Through networking events, skill-building opportunities, and community engagement, they’re creating clear pathways into the trades and helping the next generation lead with purpose. (https://webuildwyoming.org/)
Throughout the event, students were encouraged to explore post-graduation pathways such as apprenticeships, internships, and postsecondary programs, which provide hands-on experience while building technical and professional skills. Speakers shared the importance of staying open-minded, exploring different industries, and identifying individual interests and strengths as a foundation for future decisions.
Building professional connections early was also highlighted, with students advised to seek mentorship, gain exposure to real-world work environments, and take advantage of local opportunities to connect with employers and training programs as steps toward long-term career success.
Speakers also reflected on their career pathways, offering insight into the variety of routes that can lead to success in industry and trade. They discussed the benefits of their fields, including strong teamwork, opportunities for problem-solving, and a sense of camaraderie among colleagues. They also noted that skilled workers are highly valued, with their expertise recognized and rewarded.
The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session, during which students asked thoughtful questions about getting started, training options, certifications, and high-demand fields in trade and industry careers.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Wyoming Construction Coalition, Wyoming Young Contractors Coalition, and our valued industry partners for their collaboration in creating this opportunity for students through We Build Wyoming,” said Superintendent Hensley. "NCSD is committed to encouraging and supporting access to opportunities that prepare all students for their individual success after graduation, whether that path leads to college, the workforce, trade school, or military service. Through meaningful community partnerships, together we can connect classroom learning to real-world experiences and help students explore the wide range of possibilities available through CTE across Wyoming."
Thank you to the following guests who shared their time, talent, and expertise with students as part of We Build Wyoming Day:
- Justin Birt, Sampson Construction
- Logan Ridgway, Sampson Construction
- Luke Easton, Sampson Construction
- Cody Cline, GW Mechanical
- Andrew Elston, Engineering Design Associates
- Lane Spencer, Mechanical Systems, Inc.
- Larry Fodor, Mechanical Systems, Inc.
- Parker Larsen, Sheet Metal Specialties
- Pat Allen, Hub International Insurance
- Maddie Newman, Wyoming Construction Coalition