Forward Cody was created by a group of local leaders promoting Cody as a desirable place to do business and to live. Our primary efforts lie in stabilizing and growing existing business and promoting new, homegrown companies.

2025 Leadership

Board of Directors

*Bold type denotes Executive Board members

Ashley Trudo Cody Regional Health

Bruce Sauers, Chairman Buffalo Bill Center of the West

Colette Mild Healthy Park County/One Health

Dossie Overfield Park County

Emily Swett City of Cody

Gil McEndree Pinnacle Bank

Glenn Nielson Y-TEX Corporation

Glenn Ross, Treasurer

Grant Labarbera

Harold Musser Musser Bros. Auctions and Real Estate

Jake Thiel Sletten Construction

James Blair Blair Hotels

Luke Hopkin, Secretary Mountain West Farm Bureau

Rob Bauer Groathouse Construction

Sandy Newsome Vice Chairman, Newsome Investments

Stephanie Kearney Cody Regional Health

Wes Werbelow Ardurra

Advisory Board

Staff

JAKE HOGAN

Chief Executive Officer / President

As a local leader in the community, Jake brings over 20 years of experience spanning business development, sales, marketing, strategic planning, and entrepreneurship, Jake brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success to Forward Cody.

Jake has been recognized as a dynamic leader who excels at building connections and fostering community-focused initiatives. His career reflects a commitment to enhancing team performance, optimizing processes, and cultivating partnerships that generate meaningful impact.

Jake’s journey has been shaped by his service in the Marine Corps, work in the oilfield, farming and ranching, as well as a local media professional. These roles have instilled in him a deep respect for hard work, adaptability, and community values. As CEO/President, Jake will leverage his expertise to advance Forward Cody’s mission of supporting sustainable economic development while honoring the unique character and heritage of our region.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Jake is committed to health, fitness, and personal development and enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, shooting, hunting, and fly tying – a reflection of his dedication to his family, the Western way of life, and continuous self-improvement.

Jake’s leadership philosophy emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and community engagement, making him the ideal choice to guide Forward Cody as we continue to shape our community’s future.

“I am honored to have been selected as the CEO/President of Forward Cody. I am excited to work with the Board to make a positive impact on our community while continuing to honor Cody’s unique culture and values.” – Jake Hogan

KYLIE MCCONNELL

Marketing Coordinator / Executive Assistant

Driven by a passion for community and economic growth, Kylie McConnell brings over six years of experience in marketing, administration, and accounting to Forward Cody. With a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Oregon State University, Kylie blends strategic marketing expertise with exceptional organizational and communication skills to drive impactful results.

Her professional journey has encompassed digital marketing, website design, branding, content creation, social media management, data analysis, bookkeeping, and financial management, and business administration. She has led marketing initiatives, developed advertising content, and managed company operations with efficiency.

Kylie is committed to enhancing the experience for members of Forward Cody, supporting local businesses, and driving community engagement. She thrives in fast-paced environments, collaborating with cross-functional teams, leveraging data-driven insights, and adapting to evolving industry trends. She is eager to work closely with the Forward Cody board and committees to improve communication about Forward Cody’s work, progress, and goals.

Beyond her professional life, Kylie is a proud mom of two boys who keep her active and inspired every day. She loves spending time with her family, exploring the great outdoors, and embracing the adventurous spirit that makes Cody such a special place to call home. Whether crafting marketing campaigns, streamlining administrative processes, she is a results-driven professional eager to contribute to a thriving local economy.

“Community is the heart of progress. When we support our members, local businesses, and community, we build a foundation for growth that benefits us all. By working together and strengthening our membership, we can create lasting economic success.”

Forward Cody is the community’s leader, partner, advocate, and facilitator in the continuing development of a vibrant economy in the Cody area.

It’s about the people of Cody.

We have a great knowledge pool in Cody.

Cody is a great place to do business.

Cody is a great place to live.

Cody has great leadership.

Forward Cody promotes the area to accelerated expansion of local companies and encourages relocation in Park County.

Forward Cody is a private, not-for-profit corporation.  Funding consists of 41% from members, 47% from projects, and only 12% from local government.

“Our biggest focus is on the businesses that are already here that have chosen Cody, with a secondary focus on bringing other businesses in that are interested in being here.”

Sandy Newsome