May 22, 2026
We Build Wyoming Day at Pathways Innovation Center brought students together with hands-on career exploration experiences while strengthening partnerships between education and Wyoming’s workforce, reflecting our shared commitment to student opportunity and excellence.
The event was geared toward career exploration in electrical work and welding, two high-demand skilled trades that play an essential role in Wyoming’s infrastructure, construction, manufacturing, and energy industries. Industry leaders from Sampson Construction, PepperTank, Casper College, Modern Electric, and the Wyoming Construction Coalition joined students, staff, and district leaders to share information about career opportunities across Wyoming and the many pathways available after graduation.
Students gained valuable insight into rewarding career pathways that offer strong earning potential, job stability, and opportunities for long-term growth. Guest speakers reflected on their own career journeys while offering insight into the variety of routes that can lead to success in industry and trade. They discussed the benefits of their fields and noted that skilled workers are highly valued, with their expertise recognized and rewarded.
Throughout the morning, students engaged in thoughtful discussions with industry leaders, asking about pay scales, job-site best practices, interview advice, training options, certifications, and high-demand fields in trade and industry careers.
“This partnership connects classroom learning to real-world experiences and helps students explore possibilities available through CTE across Wyoming,” shared Superintendent Hensley. “It was inspiring to see students engaged, asking questions, and connecting with professionals who are passionate about their industries. Thank you to our high school leadership teams, district leaders, and valued industry partners for their continued collaboration in creating these opportunities for students through We Build Wyoming.”
The Wyoming Construction Coalition and the Wyoming Young Contractors Coalition are dedicated to strengthening Wyoming’s workforce through industry partnerships, workforce development, mentorship, and career training opportunities. Through collaboration with schools, businesses, and training programs, these organizations help connect students and early-career individuals with pathways into high-demand skilled trades and long-term career success. (https://webuildwyoming.org/)
Thank you to the following guests who shared their time, talent, and expertise with students as part of We Build Wyoming Day:
- Slade Molt - Sampson Construction
- Justin Birt - Sampson Construction
- Nick Ellis - Peppertank
- Marvin Eragon - Casper College
- Rachel Chadderdon - Casper College
- Jason Eggemeyer - Casper College
- Chad Fagot - Modern Electric
- Bob Benardis- Casper College / PIC ELAP instructor
- Maddie Newman, Wyoming Construction Coalition