Jennifer Zygmunt received her Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Wyoming in 2003 where she studied Botany and Environment & Natural Resources. Since then, she has spent the last 23 years with the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality and currently serves as Water Quality Division Administrator since 2021. Getting to this position was no small feat; from WYPDES permit writing, to managing a grant program that focused on voluntary watershed restoration projects, to representing Wyoming’s precious water resources in front of the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works as Wyoming’s Nonpoint Source Program manager, she is a dedicated steward of the Cowboy state.
Jennifer Zygmunt
January, 2026
Degree: B.S. in Botany and a concentration in Environment and Natural Resources, 2003
Hometown: Born in Casper, WY, but grew up mostly in Los Alamos, NM before returning to Wyoming for college
What position are you currently in?
Water Quality Division Administrator at the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality in Cheyenne, WY.
How would you describe an overview of your professional background and how you got to where you are today?
“I started out as an intern in the DEQ Land Quality Division right after graduating college, where I assisted with mine reclamation studies. After that I was hired into the Water Quality Division where I worked as a WYPDES permit writer during the coal bed methane boom for about 6 years. I then transitioned to managing a grant program that supports voluntary watershed restoration projects in Wyoming, along with leading other initiatives for the Water Quality Division. I was appointed as the Water Quality Division Administrator in 2021. I’ve been with the DEQ for over 23 years.”
How did the Haub School prepare for your career?
“Collaboration! You have to be able to bring people to the table and understand different perspectives. Environmental issues are complex, and you need to understand all the moving parts and pieces of an issue, respect different viewpoints, and understand the implications of your decisions. This almost always requires a team effort with partners.”
“Communication! Being able to clearly get your ideas across to other people is critical. I appreciate the Haub School’s emphasis on technical writing—this is an important skill no matter where you go in your career.”
“Be solution oriented! We deal with tough issues that can feel overwhelming at times. But I believe with collaboration and communication, we can find solutions and make progress. It’s important to not lose sight of this.”
What were some of the most memorable experiences being a Haubie?
“Being out on field tours and meeting people from all over Wyoming, some of whom I still interact with today.”
Describe the transition from being a student to becoming an alumni of the Haub School, how has your relationship changed over time?
“I’m proud to be a Haub School alum, and I am thrilled that in my current position I have the opportunity to connect with current students and provide perspectives on Wyoming’s water quality issues and career paths.”
Any notable awards or recognition that you’d like to share?
Most recently, being a graduate of Leadership Wyoming, and a proud member of the Class of 2025.
Final Thoughts?
“I appreciate that the Haub School emphasized the importance of understanding and working within environmental laws and regulations. A technical scientific background is important, but it’s equally important to understand the laws and regulations that govern environmental programs.”
Due to time conflicts, a formal interview could not be held. Below is a professional summary that highlights the entirety of Jennifer’s career from 2003 to today. Jennifer’s story has been edited for length and clarity. All image credits go to Jennifer.
Jennifer Zygmunt has been the Water Quality Division Administrator for the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality since August 2021. She began her career with the DEQ after graduating from the University of Wyoming in 2003 with a B.S. in Botany and a concentration in Environment and Natural Resources. After serving an internship with the Land Quality Division, she transferred to the Water Quality Division where she worked as a permit writer for the WYPDES Program for nearly six years. She then managed the Nonpoint Source Program for eleven years, during which time she provided testimony to the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. She then transitioned to supervising the Integrated Management Services section of the Water Quality Division, where she led initiatives related to efficiency, streamlining, and digital records management prior to assuming the role of administrator. A native of Casper, she grew up mostly in New Mexico before finding her way back to Wyoming, where she is privileged to work with her exceptional staff and people across the state to protect its water resources.
