Our
Story
Welcome to Wyoming Patriots, where community, education, and adventure intersect. Founded with a passion for fostering camaraderie and empowering individuals, Wyoming Patriots is dedicated to serving our local communities in Wyoming. At Wyoming Patriots, we believe in the power of freedom and the strength of community. Our mission is to provide opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, learn new skills, and build lasting relationships. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Wyoming Patriots is committed to making a positive and lasting impact in our community. Through our events, workshops, and fundraisers, we strive to promote community education, outdoor recreation, and emergency skill sets to our neighbors. Our flagship event, the Wyoming Patriots Confidence Course, exemplifies our dedication to education and adventure. Designed as a fundraiser for our organization, this course offers participants the chance to learn essential skills such as compass navigation, radio etiquette, and shelter building. With each step, we aim to instill confidence, foster teamwork, and promote self-reliance. Than we finish it off with good ole fashioned BBQ. But our work doesn't stop there. From planting berry bushes, teaching radio etiquette, helping others prepare and be there for one another in these harsh winters, Wyoming Patriots is always seeking new ways to give back and make a difference. Together, we're building a stronger, more vibrant community for generations to come. Join us on our journey as we explore, learn, and grow together. Whether you're a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or just starting out, there's a place for you at Wyoming Patriots. Together, we can make a difference.
Leadership
Eric Paulson
Founder/President
Wyoming Patriots
Eric Paulson is the driving force behind the Wyoming Patriots, serving as both the President and Founder. With a deep passion for preserving the values and traditions that make Wyoming unique, Eric has dedicated his life to fostering a community that is both resilient and self-sufficient.
Under Eric's leadership, the Wyoming Patriots have become a beacon of knowledge and support, offering free educational programs on homesteading, backcountry medicine, and emergency preparedness. These programs are designed to empower individuals with the skills they need to thrive in any situation, reflecting Eric's commitment to building a stronger, more connected community.
One of Eric's most notable achievements is the establishment of the Patriots Confidence Course. This event not only raises funds for the organization's educational activities but also brings the community together to develop essential survival skills and foster camaraderie. The course has quickly become a beloved tradition, embodying the cowboy spirit of Wyoming.
With 15 years of experience in office management in the medical field, Eric is also a Stop the Bleed Certified Instructor, sharing critical life-saving skills with the community. As a successful business entrepreneur, he owns Paulson Rentals and Sigma Tactical Solution LLC, demonstrating his expertise in both the medical and business sectors.
Additionally, Eric serves as a board member on the Natrona County Outdoor Recreation Committee, contributing to the enhancement of local recreational opportunities. His diverse skill set is further highlighted by a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and an advanced certification in scuba diving, showcasing a commitment to both physical discipline and adventurous pursuits.
Eric coordinates with community partners such as Bar Nunn and Edness Kimball State Park, ensuring that the Wyoming Patriots' efforts are aligned with local initiatives and have a broad-reaching impact.
As the Founder, CEO, and President of Wyoming Patriots, Eric oversees all classes and events, ensuring that the organization runs smoothly and effectively. His leadership style demonstrates a strength of character and willingness to lift others up even at the expense of himself. As president of Wyoming Patriots, Eric never expects anyone to work harder than he does or do anything he would not hesitate to do himself. (and vision are crucial to the success of the Wyoming Patriots), guiding the organization toward a future where every individual is equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Eric enjoys hiking and camping with his dogs, shooting, fishing, motorcycles, and spending time with his family and friends. He moved to Wyoming in 1986 as a child and cherishes the state's natural beauty and close-knit community. Eric also enjoys sitting down with a good book, talking philosophy, and meeting new people, reflecting his love for continuous learning and personal growth.
Eric's passion, dedication, and vision continue to guide the Wyoming Patriots toward a future where every individual is equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive. Through his efforts, the organization remains a vital resource for the community, promoting a spirit of self-reliance and mutual support.
Shawn Rupp
Wyoming Patriots
Treasurer
Shawn Rupp serves as Treasurer of Wyoming Patriots, bringing a unique blend of data science expertise and healthcare industry experience to the organization's financial management. As a Data Scientist in the healthcare field, his analytical skills and software development knowledge provide valuable insights for the organization's financial planning and growth strategies.
In his role as Treasurer, Shawn focuses on ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency while working to secure sustainable funding through grants and membership development. His vision for Wyoming Patriots includes establishing strong partnerships with organizations like BSA, Trijicon, and Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, while maintaining robust financial oversight.
Driven by a desire to connect with like-minded individuals committed to community preparedness, Shawn applies his professional expertise in data analysis and software systems to strengthen the organization's financial foundation. He is currently expanding his financial management capabilities through QuickBooks certification, demonstrating his commitment to continuous improvement in service to the organization.
Wyoming Patriots
Secretary- Cindy Wright
​Cindy Wright serves as Secretary of Wyoming Patriots, bringing a powerful combination of electrical engineering expertise and proven community leadership to the organization. As an electrical engineer at a local utility, she provides valuable insights into infrastructure resilience and emergency preparedness, particularly in power restoration scenarios.
Her prior board experience includes three years as President of the Board of Trustees at the Unitarian Universalist Community of Casper. Cindy's leadership skills, expertise in process improvement, and documentation management skills strengthen Wyoming Patriots' operational efficiency and community outreach efforts.
A certified Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) member, Cindy bridges the gap between technical knowledge and practical emergency response. Her unique perspective on community resilience is informed by her dual roles in infrastructure management and community service, making her an invaluable asset in developing Wyoming Patriots' emergency preparedness programs.
Cindy's commitment to community building is demonstrated through her active involvement in various initiatives, such as organizing community events and volunteer activities. Her approach to emergency preparedness emphasizes the importance of collaborative partnerships and sustainable community development.
In her free time, Cindy enjoys studying martial arts, including Aikibudo (a fusion of Aikido, Kali, and other arts with an explicitly martial focus). In summertime, she likes to go hiking and camping. In the winter, she enjoys focusing on creative arts such as painting, website design, computer programming, learning to play guitar, and woodworking.