Gov. Mark Gordon addressed the University of Wyoming Board of Trustees Thursday.
Gordon told the board that UW is well positioned to be a leader in a changing energy landscape, both in terms of developing technology and shaping policy. He also spoke about the role education plays in economic diversification and workforce development.
Gordon made clear that he knows that's not possible without funding.
"I am going to fight hard for the budget for this institution. I'm going to fight hard for the budget for education, generally. That doesn't mean that we aren't going to take a good hard look if there are efficiencies that we can find, but this state is going to succeed based on our education system," said Gordon.
He also proposed a way to build Wyoming's workforce by supporting adults who want to pursue certificates and advanced degrees.
"We need to stand up a trust account similar to what the Hathaway is that is a partnership between industry and the government so that we can build a workforce that is going to get hired," said Gordon.
The governor praised the board for its leadership, telling them that in a rapidly changing world they were the right people to help UW adapt. He made no mention of the recent demotion of President Laurie Nichols.