Central Wyoming Innovation and Entrepreneurship Conference celebrates landmark success

Central Wyoming College (CWC) proudly announces the resounding success of the 2025 Central Wyoming Innovation & Entrepreneurship Conference, held April 10 and 11 at the CWC campus in Riverton. Drawing entrepreneurs, investors, educators, and innovators from across the region, the conference is catalyst for economic growth and creative collaboration in Wyoming. The conference was sponsored by the Wyoming Innovation Partnership.

With more than 300 attendees, 20 dynamic speakers, and hands-on workshops, the Central Wyoming Innovation & Entrepreneurship Conference exceeded all expectations. Keynote speakers, including renowned entrepreneurs and business leaders, inspired audiences with insights into innovation trends, startup strategies, and the future of technology-driven economies.

Governor Mark Gordon and statewide partners, including Manufacturing Works, IDEA, Inc. SBDC, Workforce Services, University of Wyoming, Brunton, The Only Co., Frog Creek Partners, BWXT Technologies Inc., gALPHA/gBETA, WRDF, local Chambers of Commerce, SBA, Silicon Couloir, and the Wyoming Business Council, all participated.

“The energy and ideas that came out of this year’s CWIE Conference were truly inspiring,” says Brittany Yeates, Dean of Business & Industry. “Our mission to empower Wyoming entrepreneurs and foster a spirit of innovation was fully realized through the incredible partnerships and projects that were launched here.”

“Artificial Intelligence (AI) is accelerating innovation and affecting all aspects of business, especially in manufacturing, which was highlighted in several CWIE conference sessions and reiterated by the closing keynote speaker, Mike Wandler,” says Kevin Kershisnik, Central Wyoming Regional Director, Manufacturing Works. “AI is important for innovation, and we are looking forward to hearing how Wyoming entrepreneurs and manufacturers have successfully embraced AI at the second annual Central Wyoming Innovation & Entrepreneurship Conference.”

Hosted by Central Wyoming College, the Central Wyoming Innovation & Entrepreneurship Conference serves as a platform to drive innovation, inspire entrepreneurial spirit, and strengthen Wyoming’s economy. Keynote speakers included Tabatha Coffey, TV personality and business expert; Bill Rancic, first winner of The Apprentice and bestselling author; and Mike Wandler, President of L&H Industrial. Chancey Williams, a Wyoming native and country music star, performed in concert.

The conference emphasized supporting small businesses, trades, entrepreneurship, and encouraging student involvement in business operations, while fostering collaboration, resource sharing, and business growth in Wyoming. Local businesses contributed to the event, including Lander Bake Shop, Lincoln Street Bakery, RJ’s Smokin BBQ, and many others.

For more information, visit www.cwc.edu/cwie.