Your Investment. Our Energy. Campbell County’s Success.
ENERGY CAPITAL Economic Development P.O. Box 3948 • 2001 W. Lakeway Road, Suite C Gillette, Wyoming 82717 • (307) 686-2609
New Vision Dear Community Supporter, As you know, the last couple of years have been trying times for Gillette and Campbell County. Though coal markets have returned to relative stability and oil prices have flattened, many parts of our local economy are still struggling. My focus as Chief Executive Officer of Energy Capital ED is to put our economy back on top. Campbell County needs available and well-paying jobs within industry and new fields: we need our local businesses investing in new equipment and people, and expanding their operations; we need to diversify our economy. Campbell County and Wyoming’s past successes have been on the back of the extraction industries. Although those industries will continue to be an important piece of our economy, we must focus on diversification. Energy Capital ED investments in projects like the Advanced Carbon Products Innovation Center (ACPIC) and the Energy Capital Enterprise Center, in addition to advocacy and support for companies like Atlas Carbon, are just the beginning of our diversification work. The state has embarked upon the ENDOW (Economically Needed Diversity Options for Wyoming) initiative to diversify our economy and our tax base away from just the extraction and shipment of minerals. ENDOW’s first major step will be the development of a twentyyear economic development and diversification strategy that will drive state funding and investment for the next two decades. It is critical that Energy Capital ED work to ensure resources and strategy focus on Campbell County and our competitive advantages. We have abundant resources: low-cost energy, highly trained workforce, technical training, and a great quality of life. We must leverage these assets for the benefit of the people of Campbell County. With your support, and the support of our partners in industry, the City of Gillette, Campbell County, the University of Wyoming, and through other organizations, we will be successful. As we focus now on increasing Energy Capital ED membership, keep in mind: Your Investment. Our Energy. Campbell County’s Success. With you, we will be able to continue building the Campbell County we all want. Join us in this effort. Sincerely,
Phil Christopherson Chief Executive Officer
Building A Stronger Economy Energy Capital ED is Campbell County’s only major organization focused on diversifying and expanding Campbell County’s economy. We champion local businesses and represent impactful and diverse organizations across several industries. We work with and on behalf of Campbell County and the City of Gillette to make our community the best place to work, live, and build businesses. We target primary industries, those whose added jobs have a multiplying effect throughout the community, and value-added businesses which enhance our local natural resources or take advantage of our community’s highly-qualified technical workforce. For decades, leaders in Campbell County and Wyoming have spoken of the need to diversify our economy beyond our traditional mineral extraction industries. Energy Capital ED is making that a reality. Through our DRIVE initiative (Dedication, Responsibility, Innovation, Vision, and Ethics), our organization has a strategic plan focused on: Organizational Wellness, Business Expansion & Retention, Industrial Development & Business Parks, New Business Development, and High-Impact (Awesome) Projects. In the past three years, we have had a number of major accomplishments, including: > Opening of the Energy Capital Enterprise Center (EC2) > Formation of the NEW Growth Alliance partnership between the cities of Gillette, Buffalo, and Sheridan > Planning for development of a new business park on Campbell County-owned property near the WyoDak complex > Wyoming Business Council Funding of the Advanced Carbon Products Innovation Center (ACPIC) When speaking of awesome projects and major accomplishments, we focus on strategic advantages instead of just the next big idea. Campbell County has for far too long sent raw materials out in coal trains and pipelines, rather than enhancing those resources into new products. That enhancement, when done in Campbell County, creates new jobs, local tax revenues, and markets for our natural resources, beyond just fuel uses. That’s why we worked with Atlas Carbon to help them secure a $15 million loan from the State of Wyoming, and we’re working with other companies too.
When it comes to superior economic development performance, the diverse, balanced, and innovation-driven approach of Energy Capital ED delivers. With the help of our programs, partnerships, and members, Energy Capital ED works to advance our mission to stimulate and facilitate a diverse economy through business retention, expansion, and recruitment.
$16.5 Million State-Funded 2017 Grants & Loans
Targeting
Growth
5
Industries Helped Bring Commercial
Jet Service to Gillette
“Back in March of 2016, things looked bad in Gillette’s traditional energy industries. In one day, our community lost nearly 500 good, well-paying coal mining jobs. It’s a difficult time to be mayor of a community, but you have to remain strong. We believe in economic development, because Gillette is a vibrant community and that vibrancy comes from our strong businesses and our people. Economic development is how we’re going to get beyond our boom and bust cycles.”
City of Gillette Mayor Louise Carter-King
Now is the Time for Economic Development The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. When you need a tree, you want to enjoy the shade - you don’t want to wait for it to grow and mature. The same is true of economic development. It would have been better to get a lot of the work recently completed behind us 30 years ago. Unfortunately, that was not the case. The next best time is now. We’re the first to admit that even though our organization started back in 1985, that 32 years later we still have accomplished little in the way of economic diversification. Some of the reasons for this lie in other booms which changed the need from diversification to workforce recruitment, and some of it lies in bad decisions and uses of time in the past. However, Energy Capital ED has made major achievements in the past three years and we’re positioned to do more in the future with your support. Though Campbell County has benefitted from robust production of coal, oil, and natural gas, our strong concentration of generated tax revenue and employment within the energy extraction industries makes our economy very sensitive to small changes in production or mineral value.
Properties and Their Contribution Towards Assessed Valuation for Property Taxes
2017
$702.87
Tax Year (Production Occurred in Prior Calendar Year)
2016
$849.54
2015
Coal
$867.58
Oil Gas 2014
Uranium
$852.78
Misc. Minerals Public Utilities 2013
Telephone
$828.17
Pipelines REA's 2012
$806.87
Railroads Cable Sat Co. Local
2011
$772.80
2010
$762.14
$-
$1,000
$2,000
$3,000
$4,000
Assessed Valuation (in millions)
Source: Campbell County, Wyoming
$5,000
$6,000
$7,000
Employment by Industry - Campbell County
Employment by Industry Campbell County State government 1% Government, Federal, civilian 0%
2016
Farm employment Forestry, fishing, and 3% related activities 0%
Local government 14%
Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction 21%
Government, Military 1% Other services (except public administration) 4%
Accommodation and food services 7% Utilities 1% Arts, entertainment, and recreation 1%
Construction 8%
Health care and social assistance 4% Educational services 1% Administrative and support and waste management and remediation services 3%
Manufacturing 2% Wholesale trade 5%
Management of Professional, companies and scientific, and enterprises technical services 1% 3%
Retail trade 10% Finance and insurance 2%
Real estate and rental and leasing 5%
Information 1%
Transportation and warehousing 4%
* data for Forestry, fishing, and related activities and Arts, entertainment, and recreation estimated
Employment by Industry Campbell County vs. Wyoming vs. U.S. Employment by Industry Campbell County vs. Wyoming vs. U.S. 2016 8.85% 9.20%
All Other
Government, State & Local 0.98%
Government, Federal
10.08% 3.42% 2.47%
7.81%
Leisure & Hospitality 4.54%
Education & Health Services 3.16%
Professional, scientific, and technical services
4.36%
Finance, Insurance, Real Estate 4.13% 3.68% 3.70%
Transportation and warehousing
2.63% 3.58% 1.67% 2.89%
Manufacturing
4.81%
Construction
5.21%
1.10% 0.68% 0.31%
Utilities Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
2.92% 1.84%
0
Campbell County Wyoming
9.82% 9.74%
U.S.
6.77% 7.73% 7.22%
21.02%
6.70%
0.73%
Agriculture
13.77%
9.56% 10.07% 10.01%
Retail trade Wholesale trade
10.73% 9.68%
8.53%
7.08% 7.24%
15.04% 14.48% 15.76%
4.31%
0.05
0.1
0.15
0.2
0.25
Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis
Building Blocks of Economic Development The Building Blocks of Economic Development create a continuous cycle. The first two tiers provide a foundation for the third and fourth tiers. The third and fourth tiers generate wealth and create dollars for investing in tiers one and two. Most economic development professionals work on developing all tiers simultaneously.
TIER 1
TIER 2
TIER 3
TIER 4
Economic development is a process, not an event.
Quality of life
New Business When all the other building blocks are in place, a community is ready to recruit new business. These new businesses will add jobs
Existing Business Development Why should we attract new businesses if we don’t take care of the ones we already have? The majority of new jobs created will come from businesses already located within the community so it is important to make sure the needs of these existing businesses are taken care of.
Quality of life makes the community worth living in: comprehensive planning/visioning; cultural and recreational opportunities; adequate and affordable housing; health care; good schools; police and fire protection; and curb appeal.
Workforce
It is important to have an available workforce. A company cannot locate or expand if the necessary workforce is not available.
Leadership/Civic Development & The Role of Public Policy
Without leaders, nothing else matters. A supportive local government and a designated economic development organization are critical for successful economic development. Effective leaders can mobilize the community to plan for and support positive growth. Public policy choices made by all levels of government drive the business climate that determines the attractiveness of a particular locality to business prospects.
The Challenge of Replacing Coal Jobs
Number of jobs needing to compensate for one coal job in Campbell County (Lower numbers are better)
Industry Utilities* Mining, except oil and gas Broadcasting, except internet Internet and other information services Management of companies and enterprises Rail transportation Pipeline transportation Petroleum and coal products manufacturing Telecommunications Chemical manufacturing Federal Reserve banks, credit intermediation and related services Paper manufacturing Motor vehicle, body, trailer, and parts manufacturing Machinery manufacturing Wholesale trade Electrical equipment and appliance manufacturing Food, beverage, and tobacco product manufacturing Computer and electronic product manufacturing Plastics and rubber products manufacturing Professional, scientific, and technical services Fabricated metal product and manufacturing Other transportation equipment and manufacturing Publishing industries, except internet Nonmetallic mineral product manufacturing Support activities for mining Ambulatory health care services Insurance carriers and related activities
Recruitment
and diversify or enhance the existing business base.
No. Jobs 0.89 1.00 1.06 1.06 1.12 1.13 1.19 1.24 1.26 1.28 1.30 1.34 1.46 1.51 1.53 1.53 1.55 1.59 1.61 1.63 1.64 1.65 1.77 1.79 1.80 1.86 1.89
Focus on high value sectors that can link to regional strengths. Source: Campbell County Higher Education Needs Assessment. Gilbert, et al.
Entrepreneur Development
America is the land of entrepreneurs. As entrepreneurs are among our most important sources of new products and technologies, we should design our economic system to encourage and support their growth. Homegrown companies often have a great affinity for the community and are likely to support local businesses.
We currently have a talented workforce with available capacity. This contrasts with other times, when we have had to train and recruit.
Infrastructure
Business cannot locate in a community unless the necessary infrastructure is in place. In its most basic form, this includes land that is “shovel ready,” meaning that water, sewer, gas, electricity and telecommunication services are available on site.
“Gillette has always been a leader in the state in having a strong, growing and very livable community. Energy Capital Economic Development in partnership with their members is continuing that work to ensure that our future economy will be diverse, strong and growing for our children and future generations.” Energy Capital ED Board President Dana Miller Eiland
Making Our Own Way Enterprise Center Through business retention and expansion efforts like the Energy Capital Enterprise Center (EC2), the Energy Capital Board of Directors and staff are working to provide access to capital, capacity building, business education, and economic development opportunities to high-potential entrepreneurs in Campbell County. EC2 is currently serving seven different tenants, with the property providing opportunities for more entrepreneurs and businesses. Energy Capital ED provides assistance to entrepreneurs, including: > Giving tenants the opportunity to network with each other to share ideas, expertise, insights and partnerships > Sponsoring lunch and learn programs on business topics to help tenants learn critical business skills, develop contacts and relationships, and access available programs > Providing office space at affordable market rates and access to common spaces and services, such as conference rooms and high-speed internet > Giving tenants access to business advicePark and mentoring from Energy Capital ED Fort Union Industrial and Wyoming SBDC Network who each spend one day a week at the center
345 Sinclair Street Gillette, Wyoming
Advanced Carbon Prodoucts Innovation Center
Former mine area under reclamation
Since the dawn of time, coal has been used as a fuel source. Unfortunately, Wyoming ships most of its coal out of state, in its raw form, to be burned for power generation. Decades of research have indicated that other options for coal exist. In fact, almost anything that can be refined from oil can also be refined from coal. The problem is moving the research from lab scale to commercial scale. Industrial park area – outside of reclamation area
$1.5 Million Business Council Grant Awarded
Private Match UW Partnership
That’s the purpose of the Advanced Carbon Products Innovation Center (ACPIC). The ACPIC will allow researchers to take their lab scale processes and prove them at the small, pre-commercial plant scale, with researchers focusing on the transformation of Powder River Basin (PRB) coal into carbon fiber, asphalt, fuels, activated carbon, agricultural char, and many other valuable and marketable products. The ACPIC provides researchers a location to take their processes and prove their commercial viability - an important step in developing additional markets for PRB coal. Energy Capital ED applied for and obtained a $1.5 million-dollar grant from the Wyoming Business Council to build the research facility. The developer of the industrial park where the ACPIC will be located has provided the grant-required matching funds. Energy Capital ED is partnering with the University of Wyoming School of Energy Resources and also working closely with the University of Wyoming College of Engineering and Applied Science on the project, with UW planning to be one of the facilities initial tenants.
“We have a duty to the citizens of Wyoming and the industries that employ them. It’s something we need to spend more time on, engaging in innovative research programs that directly benefit the state and finding ways of getting value-added products out of resources besides just energy. There are lots of things that can be done to create new economies in Wyoming.�
University of Wyoming College of Engineering and Applied Science Dean Michael Pishko
Supporting Business & Research Atlas Carbon Atlas Carbon, LLC is a new carbon economy company who has made Campbell County its home. Using a new and proprietary method of creating activated carbon, Atlas takes roughly four tons of $12/ton PRB coal and turns it into one ton of $1,200 activated carbon. Activated carbon is used for water filtration, air purification, medical uses, to capture VOCs, and in many other ways. Energy Capital ED has worked with Atlas since they began modification of an existing plant facility into their production plant and through onsite research. Most recently, Energy Capital ED worked closely with Atlas to secure a $15 million loan from the Wyoming Large Loan program. The loan was ultimately approved through the efforts of Energy Capital ED, the Gillette City Council and Mayor, Campbell County Commissioners, Campbell County Legislators, and others working to educate the Wyoming Business Council and State Land and Investment Board on the benefits of Atlas and bringing enhanced coal jobs to Wyoming. Atlas’ plant will ultimately provide over 30 permanent new jobs, with the jobs created exceeding local wages by an estimated 39%. Though activated carbon is a simple transformation of coal into something more valuable, it is an important first step in the commercialization of new technologies to enhance PRB coal and helps to cement Gillette and Campbell County as the research and production center of new coal technologies.
$15 Million State Loan
Secured with ECED
Integrated Test Center As the Wyoming Integrated Test Center (ITC) at the Dry Fork Power Station outside Gillette nears completion, Campbell County is entering the world of Carbon Capture, Utilization and Sequestration (CCUS) research in a big way. The ITC is a model publicprivate partnership that will provide space for researchers to test new technologies related to CCUS and to find beneficial uses for carbon extracted from coal-fired power plant flue gases.
Leveraging a
$15 Million
Facility & $20 Million Prize
The initial tenant of the ITC is the XPRIZE Foundation, who is working with others to create a $20 million global competition to develop technologies that will convert CO2 emmissions from powers plants into valuable products. Only the second center of its kind in the United States, the ITC alleviates typical concerns around transferring technology from the lab to a power plant, since the test center users and XPRIZE teams will be working with 20 MW of real coal-based flue gas directed from the plant to the test center. Previous XPRIZE locations have spawned entire new industries based around the prize area and Campbell County stands to win big and secure its place as the international location for CCUS research, conversions of CO2 to beneficial products, and become a big-league player in the new carbon economy.
“Economic development is in the little decisions we make every day. You get out, what you put in. PRB coal is America’s most responsibly mined, most abundant, and most consistent coal for producing the finest activated carbons. Atlas is well established in the very heart of PRB country, strongly focusing on quality feedstock, in response to decades of understanding carbons made from lignite – the lowest rank coal – and their inherently higher moisture and ash profiles. PRB coal is a cleaner, better option for producing activated carbon products. Take charge of the future.”
Atlas Carbon, LLC Vice President of Operations Jim Ford
Bringing State Efforts to Campbell County ENDOW ENDOW, which stands for “Economically Needed Diversity Options for Wyoming”, was announced by Governor Matt Mead in November of 2016 and made a part of the Wyoming Statutes in 2017 by the Wyoming Legislature. Governor Mead cited several decades of economic studies and plans – some dating to the period when his Grandfather, Cliff Hansen, was Wyoming’s governor. Many of these past plans recommended addressing issues still pressing in 2016. What Governor Mead recognized was that past initiatives seemed to end when a governor’s term in office ended. What Wyoming needed was a system of economic development and diversification that worked beyond any one governor, and could make comprehensive long-term recommendations and changes. To address this, the ENDOW initiative is written into Wyoming Statute and governed by a twentymember executive council. That executive council also includes four leaders from the Wyoming Legislature. The executive council members are appointed to staggered fouryear terms in order to allow for consistency through changes in governor or legislative leadership.
Working to secure an
ENDOW BDIZ Designation
Campbell County is represented on ENDOW by Energy Capital ED board director, Mark A. Christensen. Energy Capital ED has worked closely with Mr. Christensen and with the ENDOW initiative as a whole, to make sure Campbell County is an integral part of ENDOW’s plans, as the ENDOW Executive Council will be making recommendations and decisions that will drive investments at the state level and decisions by state agencies regarding economic development activities and funding for the next twenty years. The ENDOW Executive Council will next be identifying and designating Business Development & Innovation Zones (BDIZs) where Wyoming will target money and talent towards the development of new technology focused businesses. These zones will be based around individual communities, which like Energy Capital ED, on behalf of Campbell County, have submitted information and proposals for the designation. Some of the designated BDIZ zones will be specifically targeted around industrial activities and the refining and enhancement of raw materials. It is important that Campbell County be represented in these discussions in order to ensure our community receives a BDIZ designation. Otherwise, we may watch state resources and funds directed at the enhancement of the raw materials generated in the PRB sent to other Wyoming communities. A BDIZ designation fits into our longterm plan of leveraging the Wyoming Integrated Test Center (ITC), the Advanced Carbon Products Innovation Center (ACPIC), and partnerships with the University of Wyoming to turn northeast Wyoming into the silicone valley of advanced carbon and carbon capture, utilization, and sequestration technology. Energy Capital ED has submitted a comprehensive proposal to ENDOW in conjunction with the NEW Growth Alliance.
More information on ENDOW available online at endowyo.biz
“For decades we have wanted to grow opportunities that keep our young people in Wyoming. We have known for more than 50 years that it is important to add value to our natural resources, to improve air service and to expand research. The problem with the past plans is that they have addressed the next four years – or next eight years. These are connected with political terms and we need economic action that spans the next 20 years -- efforts that go beyond this Governor and the next.”
Wyoming Governor Matt Mead
Partnerships that Work Northeast Wyoming Growth Alliance Northeast Wyoming (NEW) has unique advantages for businesses looking to expand to Campbell, Johnson, and Sheridan counties. Our region boasts strategic connections to national and international markets, a highly-skilled workforce, a government and economy that’s proudly pro-business, and an enviable quality of life. In 2016, NEW Growth Alliance was established under what was originally called the Tri-Cities Initiative between the cities of Gillette, Buffalo, and Sheridan to focus on the area’s strategic recruiting advantages: > The region produces over 10% of U.S. Energy [based upon BTUs] > Strategic connections to the country via interstate, air, and rail > Plants that are reaching obsolescence can be rebuilt in Wyoming at a lower cost > Partnerships in research with the University of Wyoming and other institutions > 8 of the 10 largest U.S. Coal Mines are located in Northeast Wyoming’s PRB, producing approximately 40% of the nation’s coal used for power generation > Highly-trained technical workforce and training through Gillette & Sheridan Colleges > Advanced energy conversion technology businesses have already located to the area Why partner? Although economic development is competitive, the small size of our individual communities means not one of the individual counties is of a sufficient size to attract site selectors or to show up as an option for those looking to relocate their business or operations. By combining our communities for marketing and recruiting, the total population exceeds 100,000 and makes the area attractive to business and site selectors. Though businesses may decide to locate to any one of the three communities, the partnership opens up access to more opportunities and allows for businesses to focus on the strategic advantages of each community when making their final selection.
For more information on NEW Growth Alliance visit newgrowthalliance.com
Advocating for Local Business Through the efforts of our members and board, Energy Capital ED collaborates with local elected officials, state legislators, and other organizations to shape policies that help to promote business creation, sustainability, and growth in and around Campbell County. We also partner with the Chamber of Commerce, Gillette College, and Convention & Visitors Bureau, as well as the Wyoming Business Council, and other groups to help create a business-friendly environment where our members’ needs are met and business can succeed. Our advocacy activities include meeting with government officials, sending letters and supporting materials to state and federal agenices, offering testimony on behalf of our members and industry, and sponsoring information and listening sessions for government and industry leaders in an effort to promote the interests of local businesses and industries. Northern Production ®
“Frequently, the only thing that the public recognizes as economic development are bricks and mortar projects or new business recruitments, and the biggest impacts are overlooked. Air transportation, broadband development, and workforce development as well as access to education and training are essential elements of a successful and healthy economy. A sustained and consistently well-funded economic development program, which works in both growth periods and down-cycles will ensure the ultimate success of the Gillette community.�
Former Wyoming Business Council Regional Director David R. Spencer
Recognizing Education’s Role Higher Education Task Force Having an educated workforce is a critical component of economic development. In fact, site selectors rank availability of a trained workforce as the number one selection criteria when making business location recommendations. For comparison purposes, corporate taxes are traditionally around 18 on the list of just over 20 criteria1. An educated workforce is essential for the diversity and income mobility that is fundamental to growing and diversifying our economy.
T
AMS PROGIERS N TIO USTR A C IND
EVALU AND T ATE ED A U R G ET
Support from UW
ITIES TUN NT OR LOPME E
The approach of the Energy Capital ED higher education task force and the selected consultant is different than that pursued by most institutions of higher learning. Focus on actual job listings and conversations with employers are driving focus on specific programs and needs, as opposed to just general categories and areas.
IDE EMPLO PROV UGH ECONOYMENT O M P I THRO C DEV P
Our focus is on having traditional community college programs that can transfer to the University of Wyoming, where students can complete a four-year degree, but in addition, we are also focusing on new programs, most technical in nature, and certificate and credential options that employers now demand. In the past, employers would hire strictly based upon a college degree. Now, employers want a certificate or credential evidencing a skill, instead of just an A.S. or B.S.
A TRAINOERDK E T CA NICAL W FORCE U D CH E
E
By the end of 2017, 62 percent of all jobs in the U.S. are projected to require some form of postsecondary education or training. Today, a focus on higher education is crucial for the advancement of local economic development efforts. To strengthen and diversify our economy, the higher education committee has been working with the University of Wyoming and Gillette College on collaborative efforts for new programs, degree opportunities, delivery methods, and certification programs in Gillette.
“The University of Wyoming looks forward to an increasingly vigorous partnership with Gillette College in the years ahead. I have been so very impressed with the expansion of the college’s enrollment, its infrastructure, and its course offerings in recent years. In short, my observation is that Gillette College knows the region’s needs, responds to them, and will look toward continuing that record of leadership and forward thinking. The students - and the economy of Campbell County - stand to benefit. University of Wyoming President Laurie S. Nichols
The work of Energy Capital and the University of Wyoming’s School of Energy Reesources has helped move the Advanced Carbon Products Innovation Center from the concept stage to a point where Campbell County-based research on coal technologies will explore the possibility of practical, commercially viable products from this area’s coal resources. Energy Capital recognizes the value of such opportunities, and provides practical strategic leadership coupled with a mindset of dogged determination to succeed.”
1 Gambale, G. (2017, July 26). 13th Annual Consultants Survey: Confident About U.S. Economy, But Concerned about Trump Administration’s Proposed Policies. Retrieved October 20, 2017, from http://www.areadevelopment.com/Corporate-Consultants-Survey-Results/Q1-2017/responding-consultants-say-finding-skilled-labor-number-one-priority.shtml
“Higher education is part of the economic engine of the community.�
Gillette College President Mark Englert
Where We’ve Been Energy Capital ED [originally Campbell County Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC)] was originally formed in 1984. Here is a brief overview of what we have been working on the past 30 years.
November 15, 1984 Campbell County Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC) formed as a 501(c)(6) organization with its initial office at 319 S. Gillette Avenue, Suite 300. 1986 CCEDC named its first executive director. 1995 Formed Northeast Wyoming Economic Development Coalition (NEWEDC) as a regional organization to represent Campbell, Crook, Weston, Niobrara, and Converse counties. The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) requires multi-county designated districts, which NEWEDC fulfills the requirement of, in order to have the area qualify for EDA funds. 1999 Worked with the City of Gillette on what became the Gillette Tech Center (the business park now home to Gillette College). 2000 Commissioned our first study on housing based upon feedback from employers that they were having trouble recruiting employees because of housing availability and cost. 2001 Worked on Vision 20/20 and the push for more flights out of Gillette - eventually resulting in increasing air passenger numbers. 2002 Worked with CAM-PLEX on an economic analysis project to determine the facility’s impact on the local economy and determine which events at were the most beneficial. 2002 Worked with County Commissioners on a plan to purchase an airplane to provide air service from Gillette to Casper and Billings. 2003 Setting Our Sights (SOS) campaign exceeded its initial $1.4 million goal and the goal was raised to $2 million. SOS was to fund a five-year economic development plan focused on: recruitment of new industry, workforce development, advocacy on behalf of local business, and communications and investor forums. 2003 Hosted ribbon cutting on the first phase of the Gillette Tech Center (the business park now home to Gillette College).
1984 - 2003
2003 Received a $150,000 EDA grant, which was matched by $100,000 from the City of Gillette, to purchase a rail spur from Energy Park Inc. 2003 Coordinated a project with businesses in the Robertson Industrial Park, South Drive Industrial Park, and Sharon Subdivision to get better road access, water and sewer connections. Minserco expansion allowed the project to qualify for grant funding because of the hiring of 40 new employees and the project received a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant from the Wyoming Business Council. 2005 Focused on workforce recruitment by placing ads in Dallas and Houston (had high unemployment) and recruited from Greeley, Colorado after a plant closure. Ran a “You’ll fit right in!” campaign at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally as well. 2005 Continued work on getting larger planes to service Gillette. Worked to raise funds from local companies to provide a revenue guarantee to Great Lakes Airlines. Larger aircraft was introduced in May after securing a revenue guarantee funded by WYDOT, the Campbell County Commissioners, and four local companies. 2005 In consort with Campbell County School District, Workforce Services, Campbell County, and the Board of Cooperative Higher Education Services applied for a $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to recruit local emerging and untapped workers and upgrade the skills of existing workers. 2006 Worked with Casper and Sweetwater County economic development groups to host job fairs in Flint, Lansing, and Jackson, Michigan. Generated interest from engineers, electricians, mechanics, and healthcare workers. 2006 Larger planes at the airport drove higher usage. The revenue guarantee was credited with saving air service. The revenue guarantee ended in May of that year. 2006 Awarded Spirit of Gillette Award from the Chamber of Commerce for CCEDC’s role in bringing more workers to Campbell County and improving services at the airport.
2003 - 2007
2008 Worked to make Campbell County the site of the first Wyoming coal gasification plant (a partnership between General Electric and the University of Wyoming). 2008 Continued Michigan recruiting efforts with General Motors and Ford Motor Co., targeting machinists, welders, electricians, carpenters, millwrights, inspectors, plumbers, cleaners, and supervisors for investor companies. 2009 Formed planning task force to develop five-year plan. Based upon community input, identified strengths and weaknesses and formed four task forces (government, education, mineral, and agriculture) to investigate the strengths. 2010 CCEDC assisted in securing $380,000 in pre-hire economic development grants. 2011 CCEDC assisted in securing $616,255 in pre-hire economic development grants. 2011 Created Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) program to assist small and emerging companies. 2011 Conducted a Target Industry Study (results presented in 2012) which identified Construction & Mining Equipment, Industrial Machinery & Equipment, Oil & Gas Field Machinery & Equipment Manufacturing, Metal Valve & Pipefitting Fabricated Structural Metal Products, and other Petroleum and Coal Products industries. 2011 Formed Expediting Team with City of Gillette and Campbell County to assist business start-ups. 2011 Launched partnership with UW’s Reclamation and Restoration Center, School of Agriculture’s Applied Economics and the Renewable Resourcews Department to study the economic impact of the reclamation industry in Campbell County. 2011 Through Retail Development Implementation Task Force, created a Retail Market Overview Study. Famous Footwear opened their Gillette store based on the Gap Analysis Study. 2011 Initiated the process to establish the Gillette Main Street program and created the Downtown Steering Committee to assist. 2012 Met with representatives from Queensland, Australia, and local business, government and college officials, to discuss possible partnerships and how Campbell County could market itself nationally and export more coal internationally. 2013 Completed Partners in Prosperity campaign, raising the full $2 million goal 2013 Met with British Consul General to discuss opportunities for partnerships with the UK (the 3rd largest international group visiting Wyoming).
2008 - 2013
2014 - 2017 2014 Hired Phil Christopherson as CEO of CCEDC. 2015 Rebranded the organization as Energy Capital Economic Development. 2015 Explored option of constructing a rail industrial park with Campbell County Commissioners after county purchase of 250-acres from WyoDak. 2015 Sponsored and organized, in cooperation with NEW Growth Alliance, the Tri-Cities Mini Technical Conference to get information to local and regional businesses on what was going on in the technology world. 2016 Opened Energy Capital Enterprise Center (EC2) after securing a $1.72 million grant and loan from the Wyoming Business Council. Long-term plans utilize building rents to support organization operations. 2016 Jointly formed the NEW Growth Alliance with the cities of Sheridan, Buffalo, and Gillette. 2016 Negotiated an agreement between Campbell County and REX Carbon, LLC for the potential construction of an activated carbon plant within a potential county-owned industrial park. 2016 Formed the Higher Education Task Force to focus on bringing four-year degrees to Campbell County, new opportunites for associate’s degrees, and alternative credentials, certificates, and programs. In partnership with Campbell County, Gillette College, University of Wyoming, and the Board of Cooperative Higher Education Services (BOCHES) contracted for a higher education needs assessment. 2016 Worked with Atlas Carbon, LLC to secure a $15 million loan from the State of Wyoming to expand their production facilities. 2017 Received funding for the Advanced Carbon Products Innovation Center from the Wyoming Business Council. 2017 Worked with Clean Coal Technologies to bring their coal enhancement plant to Campbell County. 2017 Hosted NEW Growth Alliance Advanced Carbon Products Conference at Gillette College. 2017 Sponsored and assisted with JCOAL Conference to discuss potential collaboration, knowledge sharing, and partnership with Japan on coal trade and exports, economic development, clean coal solutions and carbon capture, utilization, and storage. 2017 Received the Chamber of Commerce 2017 Key Service Award.
Where We’re Going With Your Help When you join an organization, past work is important. But where the organization is headed in the future is what drives membership decisions. Here’s a brief plan for some of our public projects. Energy Capital Enterprise Center (EC2) > Monthly lunch and learns for tenants and local entrepreneurs. Will feature specialists from the area including human resources, accounting services, marketing, legal guidance, and more. Will allow tenants to network with professionals, and professionals to market their business, and give important feedback. > SBDC and ECED will be spending time in the facility on a weekly basis to working with tenants. > Volunteer director will be selected and available as a resource to tenants. > Will continue to use facility to attract new industry to the area as a temporary office location. Advanced Carbon Products Innovation Center (ACPIC) > Finalize land purchase in April 2018 after subdivision is platted and finish design in May 2018 > Bid the project out in June 2018 and begin construction in July 2018 > Grand opening of facility in January 2019 > Expect first tenant February 2019 and additional tenants every six months NEW Growth Alliance > Continue to attend three trade shows per year to recruit businesses to Northeast Wyoming. > Plan to host additional mini conferences addressing relevant business topics in our region. > Ongoing effort to market northeast Wyoming to businesses and site selectors. Higher Ed Initiative > Phase III of Higher Education Needs Analysis Complete and Committee is Digesting Data. > Will work with Gillette College and the University of Wyoming to implement recommendations.
Join the Decision Makers Energy Capital ED is supported by your membership and donations. Join us today in our mission to stimulate and facilitate a diverse economy through business retention, expansion, and recruitment. By working together, we can diversify and expand our local economy.
Energy Capital ED Community Partners
ORGANIZATIONAL MANAGEMENT EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
DIRECTORS
DIRECTORS
STAFF
Dana Miller Eiland, Board President CEO, Sign Boss, LLC
Brian Ailts, Board Director Senior Lender, First National Bank of Gillette
Mark Christensen, Board Director CEO, he MC Family of Companies, LLC
Phil Christopherson Chief Executive Officer
Amy Clemetson, Board Vice President Human Resources Director, Cloud Peak Energy
Pat Davidson, Board Director City Administrator, City of Gillette
Micky Shober, Board Director Commissioner, Campbell County
Mary Melaragno Director of Business Retention & Expansion
Tom Brantz, Board Treasurer Gillette Market President, First Interstate Bank
Je Bumgarner, Board Director Vice President of Member Service, Powder River Energy Corp.
Jeff Wasserburger, Board Director Director, Board of Cooperative
Nick Kasperik, Volunteer Membership Coordinator
Higher Education Services (BOCHES)
EX-OFFICIO
Scott Durgin, Board Secretary Senior Vice President, Peabody Energy
DIRECTORS
Anita Black, Board Director Purchasing & Warehouse Manager, Komatsu
Doni Roper Office Manager
Robert Palmer, Board Director Commissioners Admin. Director, Campbell County Dr. Mark Englert CEO, Gillette College
Louise Carter-King, Board Director Mayor, City of Gillette Gail Lofing Executive Director, Campbell Co. Chamber of Commerce
2001 W. Lakeway Road, Suite C P.O. Box 3948 • Gillette, Wyoming 82717 EnergyCapitalED.com • 307-686-2603 Updated 1/22/2018