On April 12 & 13, the University of Wyoming partnered with the United States Department of Energy (DOE) to host seven national labs and distinguished guests such as Dr. Geraldine Richmond and Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) for National Lab Day.
“These national laboratories are the forefront of the U.S. efforts to keep energy affordable, abundant, reliable, while protecting our national security and helping transition our economy,” said Richmond, DOE Under Secretary for Science & Innovation.
The 17 national labs are government funded laboratories that work on projects ranging from studying subatomic particles, fighting cancer, and working to find renewable energy sources. The labs also do outreach in their own communities and across the U.S. to increase basic science literacy and innovation.
“Wyoming has an incredible opportunity also in the coming years to cement its stature as a leader in critical minerals and materials and to meet our target patches storage, building a long legacy of energy expertise,” Richmond said in her welcome address.
The event, which took place at the Marian H. Rochelle Gateway Center, invited students and the professionals in their fields to work together to discuss collaborative efforts like projects and internships.
“Any chance to work with a university is key to us because that’s what we’re looking for, university students, relationships with faculty, research capabilities, etc. But this particular event is even better than just a normal connection with a university because we get to have other labs here, other national labs with the department of energy,” said Jahi Simbai, a member of the workforce development team at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.
Others, such as Sophia Royobal with the Los Alamos National Laboratory, echoed similar sentiments.
“I’m excited to network and talk with different students about our internship opportunities and all the great benefits that the Los Alamos National Laboratory has for the students,” said Roybal.
The event also displayed posters that showcased work from numerous students at the university, allowing prestigious potential job opportunities from some of the nation’s top facilities.
“Our laboratories are indeed the jewels of innovation in the US government and the world,” stated Richmond.
