In July, the Office of Governor Mark Gordon announced the appointment of Angi Bruce as the Wyoming Game and Fish Department Director. She is the first female director in the department’s history. Bruce replaced Brian Nesvik, who retired last week. Bruce brings a wealth of experience and leadership to her new role.

“Angi has all the skills, talent and dedication to lead the department,” Nesvik said. “I am confident she will continue to build upon the department’s legacy and will ensure we remain the premier wildlife management and conservation leaders of our nation.”

Bruce has been a key figure in the department since April 2019, where she previously served as the deputy director of external affairs. Her work has been instrumental in addressing complex fish and wildlife management issues, including oversight of significant projects such as migration corridors, the recovery of endangered species like the black-footed ferret and aquatic habitat restoration work for pallid sturgeon. Her previous role involved extensive collaboration with state and federal partners, energy development companies and conservation organizations.

Bruce’s expertise extends to managing the department’s wildlife environmental reviews, including crucial policies such as Gordon’s executive orders on sage-grouse and big game migration corridor protections. She also played a vital role in Wyoming’s Wildlife and Roadways Initiative, navigating legislation and influencing state and federal policy.

Her career includes previous roles as the Game and Fish habitat protection supervisor and assistant wildlife bureau chief with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. During her nearly 20 years in Iowa, Bruce was well known for her work in external relations, leading conservation initiatives and managing substantial budgets. She oversaw public and private lands management and was pivotal in developing Iowa’s first Comprehensive Fish and Wildlife Plan.

She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in wildlife biology/environmental science from the University of Dubuque. Her commitment to leadership and professional development is evident from her certifications, including a certified public manager designation from Drake University and various strategic planning and leadership certifications.

“I am honored to be able to build off the incredible work of Director Nesvik and work alongside our dedicated team and partners to manage our world-class wildlife,” Bruce said “Together we will address the evolving challenges of wildlife conservation in Wyoming. Listening to understand where Wyoming citizens and department staff want the department to focus on over the next few years will be my top priority over the next few months.”