Sit down with Eric Paulson, and it doesn’t take long to realize he passionately believes in what he’s doing. There’s nothing rehearsed about it. He speaks with passion about people, purpose, his mission, and why he believes this work matters.
Paulson isn’t trying to build something flashy. He’s focused on building people, families, dads, and kids to become folks who are ready when life gets hard. People who can be self-reliant and be there for others to rely upon.
Through Wyoming Patriots, a grassroots 501(c)(3), his goal is simple, use the outdoors to teach real-world skills, build confidence, and give people something solid to stand on. As he likes to say, “it’s not about preparing for the end of the world. It’s about being ready for real life.”
A Different Kind of Preparedness
In a state shaped by wind, distance, and long winters, self-reliance isn’t a trend, it’s part of the culture. But Wyoming Patriots isn’t about stockpiling gear or worst-case scenarios. “We
use Outdoor Education as a forge,” Paulson explained. “Most people think survival is about gear. We think it’s about character.” The mission is straightforward, to help families become assets to their communities. To be the kind of people others turn to when something goes wrong.
“When a blizzard hits or there’s a crisis, we want our members to be the ones people look to for calm, capable leadership.”
The Event
His mission comes to life on June 20, 2026, during the 4th Annual Confidence Course. Held from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Beartrap Meadow Park on Casper Mountain, the event is a full-immersion day open to the public, and it’s free to attend.
Veterans, first responders, and families will come together for hands-on training built around real-life situations. But the day isn’t just about learning skills. It’s about building something that lasts. “It’s about creating core memories,” Paulson said. “The kind that stick with you for the rest of your life.”
Setting up a tent, finding your way through unfamiliar ground, and solving problems together as a family. Those moments don’t fade; they shape confidence. With a strong focus on families and youth, the event is designed to build self-confidence, fortitude, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility in the next generation.