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.

Wyoming's energy sector faces unique challenges and opportunities. Matt Fry, Director of the Center for Energy Regulation and Policy Analysis at the University of Wyoming School of Energy Resources, joins us to discuss the regulatory and policy realities impacting our state. We explore the balance between traditional energy industries and emerging technologies, focusing on the practical implications for Wyoming's economy and how the state can be proactive. Mr. Fry provides insights into the current regulatory environment, the potential role of technologies like carbon capture, and the need for pragmatic energy solutions. We address the importance of maintaining Wyoming's energy dominance while navigating evolving policies and the reality of exporting energy to other states. Tune in for a grounded perspective on Wyoming's energy future.

Join us as we explore the intersection of cutting-edge technology and academic leadership with Dr. Dimitrios Papavassiliou from the University of Oklahoma. In this episode of Energy Frontier: The Wyoming Landscape, we unpack the role of computational modeling in solving complex energy challenges, from optimizing resource extraction to developing sustainable solutions. Dr. Papavassiliou also shares his experiences navigating the unique leadership demands of heading an academic department at a university and what leadership lessons we can all learn from it.

How does federal environmental policy shape energy projects in Wyoming? Join us as we speak with Temple Stoellinger, an expert in NEPA from the University of Wyoming, about the intricacies of the National Environmental Policy Act. Learn how NEPA's regulations influence everything from oil and gas development to renewable energy initiatives on the Wyoming landscape.

Wyoming's wind energy potential is unsurpassed. How much of that potential will ultimately be developed remains to be seen. On this episode, we sit down with UW Mechanical Engineering professors Jonathan Naughton and Michael Stoellinger, co-directors of the Wind Energy Research Center, to discuss the true potential of Wyoming's abundant wind resources, as well as the economic development opportunities, technological advancements, and the challenges that still need to be addressed. Join us as we uncover the facts and explore the exciting opportunities that wind energy presents for the Cowboy State.

From coal mines to rare earths to a cutting-edge nuclear reactor, Wyoming has a rich energy history (and future). On this episode of Energy Frontier: The Wyoming Landscape, Dr. Holly Krutka sits down with Rita Meyer, a long-time Wyoming resident with a front-row seat to this evolution. They discuss Rita's remarkable career, her insights on the state's diverse energy landscape, and why Wyoming's unique blend of resources, expertise, and supportive environment makes it a prime location for energy innovation – including the exciting potential of nuclear power and her involvement with TerraPower's Natrium power plant under construction today. They also discuss Ms. Meyer's leadership approach, developed from her life in the military, public service and the energy sector. Join us for a fascinating conversation about the past, present, and future of energy in The Equality State.