Small businesses and manufacturers across central Wyoming took a major step toward building safer digital operations during the Cybersecurity 101: Protect Your Business in Our Increasingly Digital World boot camp held on March 13 in Riverton. Hosted by Central Wyoming College (CWC) in partnership with Manufacturing Works, this engaging half-day workshop was made possible through funding from the Wyoming Innovation Project (WIP).

“The Wyoming Innovation Partnership is a collaboration to align education and workforce development to support Wyoming’s industry needs. The Cybersecurity 101 Bootcamp is a great example of how we can move forward together to support the changing needs of our business and our communities” said Lauren Schoenfeld, Wyoming Innovation Partnership Executive Director.

Designed specifically for business owners, office managers, and key decision-makers, the boot camp emphasized that cybersecurity is not just a technical issue—it’s a cultural mindset. Led by Laura Baker, Executive Director of CyberWyoming, participants tackled cybersecurity misconceptions, performed individualized risk assessments, and created action plans to fortify their organizations against digital threats.

“I’m excited about this agenda because it emphasizes what business leaders can do, rather than the technical side of cybersecurity, which many of us aren’t experts in,” said Baker.

Participants responded enthusiastically to the session, highlighting the value of practical takeaways and accessible guidance. Survey data showed a dramatic increase in cybersecurity confidence, with average post-session ratings jumping from 2.29 to 3.25 (on a 5-point scale), and individual averages rising from 2.71 to 4.0.

“Businesses from across Fremont County attended and shared how helpful the training was in building their understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals and protecting their operations against online threats. The overwhelmingly positive feedback emphasized the value of this opportunity, with many participants expressing interest in attending more advanced cybersecurity training in the future,” said Natasha Stanbury Harris, Workforce Development and Customized Training Coordinator at CWC and organizer of the bootcamp.

One attendee stated, “I came into this knowing very little on the subject as a new business owner… I think I know which direction to take now, and where to go next.”

Kevin Kershisnik, Central Wyoming Regional Director for Manufacturing Works, emphasized the importance of cybersecurity for all businesses.

“Fremont County businesses that attended the workshop learned about their cyber risks from Laura and CyberWyoming, and many are now taking proactive steps to improve their cybersecurity. For those who couldn’t attend, please reach out to CyberWyoming or Manufacturing Works to safeguard your company’s future. Don’t wait until you become a statistic of cyber hacking.”

The Cybersecurity 101 boot camp reflects CWC and Manufacturing Works’ shared commitment to helping Wyoming’s small businesses and manufacturers thrive in today’s digital economy—safely and securely.

Join Us in Strengthening Wyoming’s Cybersecurity

Manufacturing Works and CyberWyoming are committed to helping businesses and individuals improve their cybersecurity posture. We encourage organizations to take advantage of cybersecurity resources, training, and best practices. Wyoming’s strength lies in our ability to adapt and work together to protect our businesses, government, and personal information.

To learn more about cybersecurity best practices and available resources, visit https://manufacturing-works.com/ or https://cyberwyoming.org/.

Together, we can build a more secure digital future for Wyoming.