CHEYENNE, WY — The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) confirmed on Sept. 17 that Major KC Ramsey has been appointed Colonel of the Wyoming Highway Patrol (WHP). Ramsey, a native of Wheatland, brings 27 years of law‑enforcement service, including 25 years with the patrol, to the role.
Extensive Background and Leadership Training
Ramsey began his career in 1999 with the Albany County Sheriff’s Office after earning a degree in justice administration from the University of Wyoming. He quickly moved to the Capitol Police, which merged into the Highway Patrol in 2001. Over the next two decades he rose through the ranks, serving in support services, communications, equipment, training, and special operations. In late 2024 he was promoted to major, overseeing the Commercial Carrier Section, Communications Center, Equipment and Technology Program, Training Division, Evidence Team, Special Operations, Executive Protection, and the Chaplain Program.
His leadership credentials include study at the FBI Intermountain Executive Command College, the Wyoming Highway Patrol Leadership Academy, and WYDOT University. WYDOT officials highlighted his “strong work ethic and high level of character” and praised his understanding of agency best practices.
Focus on Recruitment, Retention, and Budget Stewardship
In his acceptance remarks, Colonel Ramsey said his top priorities will be strengthening recruitment and retention, fulfilling statutory responsibilities, and maintaining rigorous stewardship of the patrol’s budget. He emphasized the importance of supporting families of troopers and expanding outreach to attract qualified candidates to rural law‑enforcement careers.
WYDOT Director Darin Westby noted that the five‑month selection process involved input from Governor Mark Gordon’s office, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, the Transportation Commission, and senior WYDOT staff. The thorough vetting, according to the agency, ensured the right choice for the critical public‑safety mission.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
The appointment arrives as Wyoming continues to address statewide traffic safety, commercial carrier regulation, and emergency response coordination across its vast rural terrain. By placing a seasoned leader with deep ties to both the patrol and the state’s broader transportation network, officials expect smoother collaboration between law‑enforcement and infrastructure agencies.
Colonel Ramsey expressed humility and dedication, stating, “Being chosen to serve as Colonel is a profound honor, and I accept this duty with deep humility and dedication.” He added that he looks forward to working with every member of the patrol to guide the agency into the future.
What Residents Can Expect
Wyoming motorists and communities can anticipate continued emphasis on road safety, transparent budgeting, and a renewed focus on recruiting local talent to protect the state’s highways. The appointment underscores WYDOT’s commitment to maintaining a professional, well‑trained, and financially responsible Highway Patrol.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
