Cheyenne, WY—The Wyoming Energy Authority announces new leadership of its Board of Directors today. Wanda Burget, formerly Vice Chair, has replaced Wendy Hutchinson as Chairwoman, Michelle Koch is the new Vice Chair, and Kara Choquette is now Secretary. Wendy Hutchinson will remain a member of the board. The Wyoming Energy Authority Board consists of 12 members – seven voting members appointed by Governor Gordon and confirmed by the Senate – and five ex-officio members. 

Wanda Burget, who has been a member of the WEA Board of Directors since its inception in 2021, has over 44 years of experience in environmental project management. Prior to her retirement from the coal industry, she worked 30 years for Peabody Energy Corporation, where she managed permitting and environmental compliance for four major surface mining operations in Wyoming and served as the Director of Sustainable Development for Peabody Energy Corporation’s U.S. operations. She was also a member of Peabody’s international project support team. She is the owner and principal of Accord Resource Solutions, LLC, a natural resource consultancy. 

“Energy is the heartbeat of the American economy, and Wyoming is the heart of our nation’s energy and natural resources,” said Wanda Burget. “I am honored and excited to work with our world-class team – WEA Staff, Board of Directors and ex-officio members – as we advance, facilitate and advocate for a strong, resilient energy economy for Wyoming and for all Americans.”

The WEA thanks Wendy Hutchinson as she concludes her role as Chairwoman. Hutchinson has served on the executive committee of the Board of Directors since the WEA was created. “I’d like to thank Wendy for her service to Wyoming and its energy industry,” said Executive Director Rob Creager. “Her longstanding commitment to Wyoming Energy and her guidance and leadership over the last two years has been vital to the success of the WEA as it continues to champion Wyoming energy for decades to come.”