Published March 05, 2025
By Christine Reed
A major gift from Wyoming engineer and energy strategist Bryan Hassler will support energy innovation at the University of Wyoming (UW) School of Energy Resources (SER).
Known as the Hassler Family Energy and Emerging Opportunities Excellence Fund, the significant contribution — doubled by the state of Wyoming’s matching program — will fuel critical initiatives within UW’s energy programs and support emerging opportunities that drive economic diversification across the state.
The Hassler Family’s gift underscores a commitment to advancing Wyoming’s role in the evolving energy landscape and fostering the development of new industries. The funds will be strategically allocated to enhance excellence, provide financial support, and to cultivate promising departmental opportunities at SER.
“Bryan has been a leader in the Wyoming energy sector for years,” said SER Executive Director Holly Krutka. “Thus, this family gift is especially meaningful. This generosity will have a profound and lasting impact on our university and the state of Wyoming, and will empower our students and faculty to lead the way in addressing the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.”
A visionary leader and dedicated supporter of Wyoming’s future, Hassler earned his B.S. and M.S. in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Wyoming followed by his MBA from Westminster University before embarking on a long and successful career. Excelling in project management, business planning, and educational leadership, he has served in executive roles at leading energy companies including, Barrett Resources, Antero Resources, RBS/Sempra Commodities, XCEL Energy and PureWest Energy.
Hassler has long engaged with SER and the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences on energy issues important to Wyoming such as novel oil and gas production approaches, differentiated gas, carbon capture and storage and more.
He is currently the President and CEO of United Energy Partners, LLC and remains a member of the UW College of Engineering and Physical Sciences National Advisory Board.
“Bryan has made some transformative contributions over the years to the University of Wyoming with both his time and resources,” says Teddi Freedman, director of development with the UW Foundation. “We are grateful that he acknowledges the merits of the work being done at SER and the overlap with the with College of Engineering and Physical Sciences to yield impactful synergies in energy research and education.”
