Get to Know Brett Kahler, The New Executive Director for WEDA

The Wyoming Economic Development Association (WEDA) has enjoyed the leadership of Brett Kahler since January 2024. As he grows more confident in his role, the WEDA staff and board of directors are excited about his developing vision for the future.  

If you haven’t met Kahler yet, learn more about his background and natural passion for the state of Wyoming. We recently sat down to discuss his plans for economic development and what it has been like for him these past few months. 

Can you tell us a little about your professional background? 

I came to WEDA after working in development at the University of Wyoming, and most recently with the Business Incubator on campus. I have also held various roles in state and federal agencies, which gives me a foundational understanding of how government works and the role economic development plays in a community.

I was born in Wyoming and earned my bachelor’s degree in communication from UW. Along with my economic development roles, I serve on the City of Laramie Parks, Tree, & Recreation Advisory Board, the Laramie Plains Civic Center Board of Directors, and the American Legion Wyoming Boys’ State Board of Directors.

What has it been like working with other economic development groups so far? 

The interaction with economic developers across Wyoming has been great. Each community does it differently – some communities have quite a bit of resources, and others have economic developers who wear multiple hats and juggle a variety of additional responsibilities.

I’ve spent the past few months learning what each community has in its toolbox so I can determine what WEDA should provide to support economic development activities of various sizes.

What challenges do you expect to face in your new role? 

The biggest challenge in this role will likely be the sheer vastness of the State of Wyoming. The size and scope of what can be accomplished is so great, but so is the size of the state.

The communities that are spread across Wyoming all bring unique benefits to the state, but also all have their own set of challenges. The task at hand will be to grow the association to a place where it can provide benefits to each of these communities individually, while also providing a strong benefit to the state as a whole.

How do you plan to measure your success and WEDA's success? 

Our success will be measured by the increase in membership and attendance at WEDA’s educational events, which is a space we strive to grow to benefit as many economic developers, businesses, and communities across the state. We are working to grow existing partnerships, as well as form new ones, that will help expand WEDA’s exposure.

Our number one role is to develop the capacity for economic development, and we’ll work to monitor that progress over time to measure the benefits we are working to provide.

What are the biggest economic opportunities in Wyoming?

Wyoming has several strengths at its fingertips, including its natural resources, agriculture, tourism, technology, and manufacturing. However, the ability to leverage those strengths is only made possible by recruiting and retaining a strong workforce. Wyoming has an opportunity to really invest in education and training to keep Wyoming residents in the state, while also attracting new workers to the region. 

Why is the future bright for Wyoming?

Wyoming’s future is bright because of strategic investments made by the state and local communities in infrastructure, education, and workforce and business development. This investment lays the groundwork for new businesses to join the Wyoming ecosystem and provides opportunities for existing businesses to succeed.

While great progress has been made in this space, there is still room for continued growth in communities around Wyoming. 

Join WEDA to Grow Your Economic Development Association 

WEDA provides economic development opportunities for associations of all sizes. Whether you have represented your region for decades or recently stepped into your role, there is always something to learn. Kahler has a strong vision for WEDA and the value it can provide to EDOs. If you aren’t already a member of WEDA, join today and grow with him.