Wyoming State Fair General Manager Courtny Hinds Accepts Executive Director Position with NICA
After seven years of dedicated leadership, Wyoming State Fair Executive Director and General Manager Courtny Hinds has accepted the position of Executive Director for the National Independent Concessionaires Association (NICA), marking the next chapter in her career while concluding an extraordinary era of growth for the Wyoming State Fair.
Since joining the Wyoming State Fair in 2019, Courtny has led the organization through one of the most transformative periods in its history. Together with the State Fair team, board, partners, volunteers, exhibitors, sponsors, and the people of Wyoming, she has helped strengthen the Fair’s role as a year-round
event complex while preserving the agricultural traditions that have defined it for more than 120 years.
Under Hinds’ leadership, the Wyoming State Fair completed more than 30 major facility improvement projects, increased fairtime attendance by more than 120 percent, and expanded its year-round event calendar. From the construction of the North-South Connector, Rodeo Office, and Crow’s Nest to a comprehensive rebranding of the Fair and enhancements to the overall visitor experience, these investments have strengthened the Fair’s ability to serve exhibitors, event organizers, fairgoers, and the people of Wyoming while honoring its rich agricultural heritage.
Just as important as the infrastructural improvements have been the investment in people. During Courtny’s tenure, the Fair expanded opportunities for youth and exhibitors through initiatives like Champion of Champions and the Top 5 Market Animal Payout Program, while also developing a strong internship program and building a passionate, talented team dedicated to serving Wyoming. Her vision also laid the groundwork for exciting projects that will shape the future of the Wyoming State Fair for years to come, including the Show Center Flooring Project, dormitory feasibility studies, and the
continued planning of the Silver Arena.
Reflecting on her time at the Wyoming State Fair, Hinds shared:
“Serving as General Manager of the Wyoming State Fair has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together, and I have every confidence that the Fair’s brightest days are still ahead. This organization has helped shape me as a leader and as a person, and it will hold a special place in my heart. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Wyoming and will continue cheering on the Wyoming State Fair for many years to come.”
While Hinds will soon begin serving the fair industry in a national leadership role, the impact of her time in Wyoming will continue to be seen throughout the Fairgrounds, in the programs she helped establish, and in the relationships she fostered across the state.
The Wyoming State Fair Board and staff extend their sincere appreciation to Hinds for her years of service and the lasting impact of her leadership. As the organization begins the search for its next General Manager, the Board remains committed to building upon the strong foundation established during her tenure.
Board Chairman Shawn Steffen reflected on Hinds’ legacy, saying:
“Courtny’s passion, vision, and dedication have helped shape the Wyoming State Fair into the organization it is today. We are incredibly grateful for the leadership she has provided over the past seven years and for her unwavering commitment to the youth of Wyoming and our agricultural community. While we will miss her, we are excited to see all she accomplishes in her new role and wish her the very best in her next endeavor.”