The following is sponsored content from Advance Casper.
Wyoming has long been intentional about protecting the industries, communities, and quality of life that define our state. But as economic conditions and opportunities elsewhere evolve, it begs the question: Will preservation alone be enough to keep Wyoming’s future generations in the state?
While many of us share pride in our Wyoming way, the data presents a significant challenge. By the time Wyoming-born residents reach their thirties, nearly two-thirds have left the state. Research from Harvard Growth Lab found that young people leaving Wyoming overwhelmingly relocate to larger communities, where employment, housing, restaurants, social connections, and other amenities are more abundant.
The time to address this challenge is now.
Advance Casper is championing economic development through its ongoing NC Means Business campaign, an effort focused on informed dialogue around growth and opportunity in Natrona County. Business leaders are joining the conversation and advocating for thoughtful, growth-minded change that strengthens Wyoming for generations ahead.
Greyson Buckingham, CEO and President of DISA Technologies, shares, “Our largest export is our youth. I don't find that funny. We need to keep our children here. I have sons. I want them here. When we enhance our economic development, it encourages our youth to stay.”
The formula is simple: jobs create opportunity, opportunity attracts and retains people, and people support local economies. A growing workforce means more people earning and spending locally, supporting restaurants, retailers, and other businesses. Increased demand gives existing businesses room to grow while creating a market for new businesses and services.
Natrona County Means Business recognizes that the formula only works with thoughtful participation from residents. Natrona County and its business leaders have an exciting opportunity to shape and support what comes next.
As Jonathan Boudreaux, Sr. Manager of Gas Operations at Black Hills Energy, explains, “As communities grow, so does support. If we can attract skilled laborers and a good workforce, that will boost the local economy. If we want to shop local, then we must be able to support local businesses. The more support we give, the more it goes through the chain of opportunities.”
Natrona County’s economic future is a community conversation, and there are meaningful ways to take part. Attend community meetings, invite others into the conversation, welcome perspectives that differ from your own, and listen thoughtfully to the ideas and concerns being shared. Building a stronger Natrona County means being tough when it counts, fair when it matters, and willing to move forward together.
These efforts are not about change for the sake of change. Wyoming can protect the industries, values, and quality of life that have shaped our state into the one we all love while building a more prosperous, stable economy for generations to follow.
The future we work so hard to preserve must also be a future the next generation can realistically choose. If we want the next generation to choose Wyoming, it’s time to tip the scales toward opportunity. Help create the reasons they choose to stay and get involved today.
