In this episode of Energy Frontier: The Wyoming Landscape, we’re joined by Travis Deti, Executive Director of the Wyoming Mining Association, to explore the vital role mining plays in the state’s economy and energy future. Deti offers insight into the diverse minerals produced in Wyoming—from coal to uranium to rare earth elements—and discusses how policy, innovation, and environmental stewardship are shaping the industry. He also highlights workforce needs and the importance of public understanding in sustaining Wyoming’s mining legacy. It’s a timely conversation on the past, present, and future of a foundational Wyoming industry.

In this episode of Energy Frontier: The Wyoming Landscape, we’re joined by Pete Obermueller, President of the Petroleum Association of Wyoming, to discuss the current landscape and future outlook of the state’s petroleum industry. Obermueller shares his perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Wyoming’s producers, the importance of state and federal policy, and the critical role of energy advocacy. From workforce needs to innovation and regulatory trends, this conversation offers a front-row seat to the issues shaping one of Wyoming’s most important economic sectors—and the people working to ensure its continued success.

In this episode of Energy Frontier: The Wyoming Landscape, we talk with Harper Pollock, an undergraduate student at the University of Wyoming’s School of Energy Resources, about her internship at the Wyoming Governor’s Office during the spring of 2025. Harper shares what it was like to move from the classroom to the heart of state government, offering insights into policymaking, the intersection of energy and legislation, and how her SER education prepared her for real-world impact. Her story highlights the value of experiential learning and the growing role of young professionals in shaping Wyoming’s energy future.

In this episode of Energy Frontier: The Wyoming Landscape, we sit down with Dr. Tim Fischer, Oil and Gas Program Manager at the University of Wyoming’s School of Energy Resources (SER). Fischer brings a wealth of experience from both industry and academia to discuss Wyoming’s energy future, the state’s unique geology, and how SER is preparing students to meet evolving workforce demands. He highlights SER’s hands-on approach to education, including real-world projects and strong industry partnerships, and shares his vision for advancing responsible oil and gas development in the state. It’s a compelling conversation on education, energy, and opportunity in Wyoming.

​In this episode, Professor John Kaszuba, the John and Jane Wold Centennial Chair in Energy and School of Energy Resources faculty member, delves into the state's rich geological features and its abundance of critical minerals, including those that can be found in unexpected places. With over 25 years of experience in geochemistry, Professor Kaszuba highlights his research on fluid-rock interactions and their implications for energy development. He emphasizes his commitment to student success through hands-on research opportunities with companies, national labs and the Wold Foundation that has supported his work. The episode underscores Wyoming's unique position as an ideal location for geological research, offering unparalleled natural laboratories for both students and professionals.

In this episode of Energy Frontier: The Wyoming Landscape, we welcome Nancy McCaskell, president of the American Association of Professional Landmen (AAPL), to discuss the evolving role of landmen in today’s energy sector. McCaskell shares insights into how land professionals bridge the gap between industry, landowners, and regulators. We also highlight the University of Wyoming’s School of Energy Resources, which offers one of only ten AAPL-accredited Professional Land Management concentrations nationwide. This program equips students with interdisciplinary skills in law, business, and energy, preparing them for dynamic careers in the field.

In this episode, we talk with Mr. Davin Bagdonas and Dr. Tyler Brown about the growing potential of rare earth elements (REEs) in Wyoming—particularly from unconventional sources like coal byproducts. Davin and Tyler share their expertise on how Wyoming is uniquely positioned to become a leader in domestic REE production, helping to secure critical supply chains for energy and defense technologies. They discuss current research, emerging technologies, and the role of policy in unlocking these resources. Don’t miss this deep dive into an exciting and often overlooked frontier in energy innovation.

There's few places where education and energy are more closely linked than in Wyoming. The state's Superintendent of Public Instruction, Megan Degenfelder, joins us to discuss how Wyoming's schools are preparing students for careers in both traditional and emerging energy sectors. Degenfelder addresses the importance of STEM education, vocational training, and aligning curriculum with industry needs. We also delve into how the revenue produced by the state's energy industry funds the education system and how Wyoming is fostering a future generation ready to power our state's economy. Tune in for insights on shaping Wyoming's energy workforce for tomorrow.