The Petroleum Association of Wyoming is the voice of the oil and gas industry, including oil and gas production companies, midstream processing, pipeline transportation, oilfield service companies, and affiliated companies offering essential work such as legal services, accounting, consulting and more. Our members produce 90% of Wyoming’s oil and gas; generating over $8 billion in economic activity and employing more than 19,000 of Wyoming’s hard working men and women.
The Petroleum Association of Wyoming represents the diverse people, companies and interests of Wyoming’s oil and gas industry with passion, integrity, and professionalism. We provide a forum for education, interaction, and unified action for members, policymakers, and the public.
Pete Obermueller is President of the Petroleum Association of Wyoming, representing the state’s oil and gas industry. A Natrona County High School graduate, he holds a Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Minnesota. He previously served as an aide to U.S. Representatives Barbara Cubin and Cynthia Lummis. Pete serves on several boards and enjoys running, backpacking, and time with his family.
Ryan McConnaughey has been with the Petroleum Association of Wyoming since 2019 and serves as Vice President & Director of Communications. He brings over 15 years of experience in public affairs, communications, and policy across multiple industries. Previously, he worked at the Pronghorn Agency and served six years for Wyoming’s Member of Congress. A lifelong Wyomingite, Ryan holds degrees from New Mexico State University and the University of Wyoming.
Lily Simon joined the Petroleum Association of Wyoming in 2025 as Director of Regulatory Affairs, leading state and federal regulatory efforts for Wyoming’s oil and natural gas industry. A Kaycee native, her family has operated an oil field for over 25 years. She holds business and land management degrees from the University of Wyoming and enjoys Wyoming’s outdoors.
Rachel Sanborn joined the Petroleum Association of Wyoming in 2017 as Office Manager and Executive Assistant. Between oil and gas businesses and trade association offices, Rachel has 20 years of office management experience. Rachel enjoys camping and exploring the great outdoors with her husband and dog.
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Available for editorial use only. All photographs remain the property of PAW and cannot be edited or altered without prior written permission. Contact us for approval or non-editorial usage. Biographies for each staff member can be found on the PAW About Us page.
