Events & Activities

Actively building Wyoming’s future together.

ARCHITECTS IN ACTION

Economic growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum—it happens in our coffee shops, town halls, and local boardrooms. At the Wyoming Business Council, we believe a resilient economy begins with the strength of its people and that the best way to predict the future is to build it ourselves.

This page is your hub for the Team of Thousands to move beyond the headlines and into the work. Here, we move past misconceptions and focus on the data-driven strategies that keep Wyoming moving forward. From our “Building Wyoming’s Future” community conversations to live “What’s the Point?” Open Mic sessions, we are creating the spaces where local leaders solve problems and capture statewide opportunities.

What's the Point? Open Mic

YOU HAVE QUESTIONS. WE HAVE ANSWERS.

Wyoming’s economic future is at a crossroads. Join Wyoming Business Council (WBC) CEO Josh Dorrell every week for a live, unscripted Q&A. We’ll continue to bust myths and dig into specific WBC programs and services.

NO QUESTION IS OFF LIMITS! Get the facts, join the conversation, and find out how you can take action for your community.

These candid conversations are open to the public (PLEASE share and invite your network to join us!) All sessions will be recorded and posted below.

UPCOMING SESSIONS:
- Tuesday, March 17
- Tuesday, March 24
- Tuesday, March 31
- Tuesday, April 7
Time: NOON MST
Open to the public
All sessions will be recorded and posted below

Building Wyoming's Future

The WBC is hosting a series of vital community conversations to tackle Wyoming’s primary economic hurdles and identify practical paths toward a resilient future. These sessions are designed for our Team of Thousands: local leaders, business owners, students, and citizens across the state who want to play a direct role in shaping our state’s growth.

Catch up on the powerful discussions held so far at the links below:

The Exit Interview

To build a Wyoming where the next generation can thrive, we must first listen to their reality. “The Exit Interview” was an honest dialogue with young Wyomingites—those who stayed, those who left, and those deciding their next move. This conversation moves beyond assumptions to explore the real trade-offs between a love for Wyoming and the need for career growth, housing, and connection.

Key Takeaways:

Career over “Jobs”: Access to meaningful, in-field employment is the primary driver for staying or leaving.
The Community X-Factor: Connection, leadership opportunities, and vibrant gathering spaces create the social fabric that turns a town into a home.
Viable Returns: Leaving isn’t a failure; the goal is to ensure Wyoming is the first choice when they are ready to build a life.

Understanding the Nuclear Industry

The first of our community conversations explored how large-scale industrial developments—such as the proposed BWXT nuclear facility near Gillette—serve as more than just local projects; they are powerful catalysts for statewide economic resilience.

We discussed the ripple effect these investments create with community and industry leaders.

Key Takeaways:

Infrastructure Readiness: Strategic state investments in power and site prep can make Wyoming a top choice for next-generation industry.
Statewide Opportunity: Why a win in one county creates a demand for services, parts, and talent that stretches across the entire state.
The Long Game: Moving from “one-off” projects to building a permanent industrial engine that provides high-quality careers for young Wyomingites.

Critical Minerals Beyond the Rocks

Our second “Building Wyoming’s Future” conversation explores the shift from being a primary resource provider to a global leader in technology and manufacturing. This session digs into how Wyoming can strategically capitalize on its critical minerals to create lasting, high-value economic clusters.

Key Takeaways:

Capturing the Value Chain: Moving beyond extraction to lead in processing and manufacturing.
National Security: Understanding Wyoming’s vital role in global supply chain security.
Bridging the Gap: How the WBC helps move advanced technologies from the lab to commercial-scale projects that create local jobs.
ROI of Innovation: Why hard-tech R&D is a generational investment in new tax revenue and career paths.

What’s the Point? Open Mic

YOU HAVE QUESTIONS.

WE HAVE ANSWERS.

Wyoming’s economic future is at a crossroads, and we know there are a lot of questions about what comes next. Join Business Council CEO Josh Dorrell every week for a live, unscripted Q&A. From the proposed dismantling of the WBC to how we’re fighting to keep Wyoming families whole, no question is off-limits. Get the facts, join the conversation, and find out how you can take action for your community.

Next Session: Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026 @ 1 PM MST
Open to the public
All sessions will be recorded and posted here

Open Mic Recordings

Wyoming’s economic crossroads are too important for closed-door conversations. If you couldn’t join us for our latest “What’s the Point?” Open Mic, you can watch the full, unscripted recordings here. From debunking myths about the WBC budget to discussing the future of our local communities, we’re putting it all on the table. Watch CEO Josh Dorrell tackle the tough questions and get the facts you need to be an informed advocate for your region.

Building Wyoming's Future

The WBC is hosting a series of essential community conversations exploring Wyoming’s biggest economic growth hurdles and opportunities, and discussing practical steps needed to secure a thriving, resilient future for generations to come.

These conversations are vital for everyone in our Team of Thousands – local leaders, business owners, students exploring opportunities to stay in Wyoming, and dedicated citizens – who want to play a direct role in building a thriving, resilient future for generations to come.

CHECK OUT OUR LATEST COMMUNITY CONVERSATION

What’s the Point? To build a Wyoming where the next generation can thrive, we have to move beyond assumptions and listen to the voices shaping our tomorrow. Watch the replay to hear the straight talk on what it will take to keep our families together and our state strong.

BUILDING WYOMING’S FUTURE: THE EXIT INTERVIEW

Wyoming leads the nation in exporting its greatest resource: our children. With 60% to 70% of our youth leaving the state by age 30, we aren’t just losing people — we are losing our future.

On Thursday, Feb. 5, we partnered with WyoFile and ENGAGE Wyoming to host a candid, high-energy “Exit Interview” to hear directly from the people who matter most. This wasn’t a panel of experts talking about young people; it was an authentic, raw dialogue featuring young Wyomingites who stayed, those who left, and those weighing their options right now.

The conversation was powerful, eye-opening, and essential for every parent, employer, and policymaker in the state. If you missed the live session, the full recording is now available for you to review.

PAST CONVERSATIONS & RECORDINGS

BUILDING WYOMING’S FUTURE: UNDERSTANDING THE NUCLEAR INDUSTRY

The first of our community conversations explores how major new developments – such as the proposed BWXT nuclear facility near Gillette, Wyoming – can serve as powerful catalysts for statewide economic growth and opportunity. Watch the conversation with Business Council CEO Josh Dorrell and community and industry leaders.

BUILDING WYOMING’S FUTURE: CRITICAL MINERALS BEYOND THE ROCKS

The second community conversation in our “Building Wyoming’s Future” series generated crucial discussion on how Wyoming can strategically capitalize on its rich resource base to create new, lasting economic clusters.

Wyoming’s Advanced Nuclear Opportunity: Community Q&A

How will BWXT ensure high-quality, long-term jobs rather than a short-term boom?

This is not a “boom-and-bust” model. It is a generational anchor industry, and key drivers include

Decade-scale facility lifespan under NRC licensing
Prioritizing local hiring and upskilling
Building a strong, local supply chain
Working with colleges and communities for ongoing workforce development
Integrating into the community over a generation, not a project cycle

I’m a young Wyoming resident studying nuclear engineering with limited experience. How can I contribute to this state and to the nuclear field?

Start with two steps: gain real-world experience and share what you know.
Seek internships or co-ops with BWXT, TerraPower, national labs, or engineering firms. Hands-on experience will matter as much as your degree.
Be a local “explainer.” Talk with friends, family, and community groups about what modern nuclear energy looks like today. Staying connected to Wyoming projects now will position you well as opportunities grow.

Gillette has a strong workforce from coal and industrial operations. How do these skills fit a TRISO fuel facility, and will training be provided?

These existing skills and know-how fit very well. Skills from coal plants – maintenance, operations, safety, instrumentation, valves, pumps, quality – are directly relevant to a TRISO fuel facility.
Training will be essential. We expect to develop targeted programs in partnership with Gillette College, the University of Wyoming, WyoTech, Wyoming Welding Academy, and employers like BWXT and L&H. The workforce that powered Wyoming’s legacy industries can transition into advanced nuclear with the right support.

What specific training could colleges offer to advance the nuclear workforce?

Training should be practical, employer-aligned, and accessible. Colleges can serve as a bridge between today’s skills and tomorrow’s jobs by offering a variety of training opportunities, including

Certificates in nuclear quality, radiation protection, and process operations
Short, stackable credentials in advanced manufacturing
Co-developed courses with industry
Built-in internships or co-op rotations
Technical training tied directly to employer needs

Will BWXT or L&H partner with Gillette College, UW, or others to train Wyoming residents for TRISO manufacturing or microreactor work?

Yes. Partnerships with local colleges and training providers are expected. These may include curriculum design, advisory roles, internships, apprenticeships, and on-site training to ensure Wyoming residents are first in line for these careers.
L&H partners with Gillette and Sheridan College, UW, and many other community colleges, trade schools, etc. We get our best talent by working with the teachers and finding students who match our culture and fit in our mission, vision, and values. The world changes faster each year, so L&H looks for people who want to perpetually upgrade their skills, abilities, and opportunities. Training on the job is the norm for L&H.

How can we help K–12 students understand the career opportunities emerging in Wyoming?

The message to convey to our young people is simple: you can build your life here doing world-class work. We recommend introducing energy and advanced manufacturing careers early through:

School visits from engineers, welders, and technicians
Hands-on clubs (robotics, energy clubs, machining basics)
Field trips to training centers or industrial sites
Classroom kits that connect STEM skills to Wyoming jobs
Teacher training and lesson plans tied to local industries

Can we bring nuclear education or training classes to Carbon County and other regions?

Yes. Regional interest makes this easier. Carbon County Higher Education Center and others can work with project partners to pilot short courses on nuclear fundamentals, safety, energy careers, and technical skills aligned to future jobs.

How can a small business get networked or involved with the advanced nuclear sector?

Small businesses in Wyoming are already winning major contracts, and more can join them. Visibility and clarity are key:

Attend supply-chain tours and business roundtables
Submit capability statements to BWXT, TerraPower, or other project partners
Join networks like Wyoming Innovative Entrepreneurs
Demonstrate quality, safety, and reliability even if not yet “nuclear-qualified.”

How can electrical professionals and technical organizations support nuclear development?

Organizations should connect with BWXT, L&H, local utilities, and training providers to align skills and pursue supplier or contractor roles. Electrical expertise is essential for:

Power distribution
Controls and instrumentation
Grid interconnection
Maintenance of industrial systems

If political opposition pushes advanced manufacturing away, will companies expand elsewhere?

Yes. Companies investing hundreds of millions of dollars will go where they can operate with certainty, predictability, and a welcoming environment. We’ve already seen this happen with other companies looking to expand in Wyoming that opted to move elsewhere when policy did not support their needs, irrelevant of available investments.
Wyoming earned early advantages by being unified and forward-looking. Losing that posture would put these opportunities at risk. Companies have been clear with state leaders: political instability or hostility will send projects – and jobs – elsewhere.

Is Wyoming’s legislative direction a concern if it favors “legacy industries” over advanced ones?

It can be. Wyoming can – and should – support legacy and emerging industries simultaneously. But if policy signals that advanced manufacturing or next-generation energy are unwelcome, growth may shift elsewhere. Wyoming’s future depends on expanding the pie, not protecting slices.
If a company or a state decides not to innovate or iterate, it suffers. The only guarantee in business and life is change. Not everyone wants it; some want things to stay the same or even return to the past—but that’s the one impossible thing. If we engage in change, we can help shape it and lead it. If we resist, we’ll be dragged into it anyway, without any of the rewards of being the creator or the leader. And remember: there’s room for all forms of energy. When any product or energy source hits peak demand and stops evolving, competition squeezes out the profits and eventually erodes wages and benefits. The path forward is to keep the profitable legacy industries while pushing into new products and services that aren’t price-sensitive. The right strategy is all of the above—and always moving forward.

As more industrial jobs come to Wyoming, how can local healthcare and community resources support workers and families?

Healthy workers and stable families strengthen long-term workforce retention. Support should be:

Preventive: screenings, occupational health, heat, and respiratory monitoring
Family-focused: child care, housing stability, mental health options
Workforce-aligned: clinic hours that fit shift schedules
Specialized: training providers in radiation medicine and emergency response (rarely needed, but important)

Can healthcare resources be tailored specifically for the nuclear sector to attract more investment?

Yes. Specialized clinical training, emergency preparedness, mental health support, and family services can all signal that the region is ready to support advanced industries. This is another competitive advantage communities can use to leverage themselves.

How will industry leaders maintain transparency, given past failures in other energy sectors?

Trust is built by inviting good faith scrutiny, not avoiding it. Transparency requires:

Early and ongoing communication
Plain-language explanations of safety and risk
Independent oversight and regulatory rigor
Willingness to share both successes and mistakes
Community advisory groups with real access to information

What risks or challenges exist in bringing nuclear industries to Wyoming? What policies are important to ensure responsible development?

Responsible development means clear rules, enforced consistently, not no rules.

Potential key risks:

Political volatility
Public misinformation
Workforce bottlenecks
Infrastructure capacity
Complex permitting

Important policies:

Stable, predictable regulatory frameworks
Proactive community engagement
Workforce and education investment
Infrastructure readiness
Clear environmental and safety guardrails

Where can the public find unbiased information about nuclear impacts?

Look to independent and science-based sources, such as:

National labs
Universities
Federal regulators
Global case studies of long-standing nuclear communities

How should AI be discussed without using it only as a justification for power demand?

It should not be used as a buzzword or justification. The focus is the mission, not the hype. Instead, AI should be framed as a tool to solve real problems, such as:

Predictive maintenance
System optimization
Advanced operator training
Enhanced safety monitoring
L&H uses AI to enhance the capabilities of our people, which expands the capabilities of the entire company. AI improves the speed and quality of my work as CEO and accelerates performance across the organization. At this point, it’s hard to imagine doing our jobs without it. AI is a force multiplier for productivity, quality, safety, and speed to market—enabling us to take on projects we would have passed on in the past. The companies and teams that embrace AI to compound their capabilities will grow faster, create more financial freedom, and achieve a healthier work-life balance than those who resist it.

Will panelists support state agencies seeking nuclear or AI-related grants?

Yes. Leaders are generally willing to contribute expertise, letters of support, brainstorming, or partnership roles—especially when the project:

Strengthens Wyoming’s workforce
Advances safety or innovation
Aligns with long-term economic goals

Agencies should reach out early with clear, concise requests.

How can WyoTech and similar programs become part of this opportunity?

WyoTech and similar programs are natural partners for the scale of this emerging opportunity, and can collaborate directly with industry on:

Specializations such as nuclear-quality welding
Diesel and equipment maintenance programs for plant support
Internships, apprenticeships, and employer-aligned curriculum
Student pathways into high-quality, long-term jobs

Share Your Story

We’re Building Wyoming’s Future, and We Want Your Blueprint.

BUILDING THE TEAM OF THOUSANDS

JAC WATCH PARTY RECAP

Thank you to the more than 200 members of the Team of Thousands who joined our statewide JAC Watch Parties on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025. The tremendous commitment and energy shown, including that of several high school students in Rock Springs who volunteered to share their vision for Wyoming’s future, demonstrates the state’s readiness to engage in the political process and create opportunities for all generations.

What is YOUR vision for Wyoming’s future?

Review the recordings and slides below, then let us know what you think of the WBC’s vision at wbc.pub/26Budget.