2026 Hall of Fame: Shawn Nunley

May 26, 2026

Shawn graduated from WyoTech in 1995 from the Laramie, Wyoming campus, completing the Automotive and Street Rod programs. During his time as a student, he earned Perfect Attendance, Outstanding Student recognition, and Honors—early signs of the commitment and work ethic that would define his career.

Shawn’s journey into the trades began long before his time at WyoTech. At just 15 years old, he started working in collision and paint at the shop of his mentor, Joe. That early hands-on experience sparked a lifelong passion for the industry and set him on a clear path forward.

From August 1992 to May 1994, Shawn attended Montana State University College of Technology, where he studied Collision Refinishing. His dedication and talent led to his recruitment into what was then Wyoming Technical Institute, where he graduated in March of 1995.

After graduation, Shawn worked in the paint shop at Laramie GM until August of 1995—when his relationship with WyoTech took on a whole new meaning. That same year, he was hired as an instructor in the Collision Refinishing Program, marking the beginning of a remarkable career in education.

Over the years, Shawn steadily took on greater leadership roles. He became Assistant Coordinator of the Collision Refinishing Program in 2005 and was promoted to Coordinator in 2010. In 2018, he stepped into the role of Campus Educational Coordinator and later advanced to Vice President and Director of Education—positions he continues to hold today. As of August 2026, Shawn will celebrate 31 years of service to WyoTech.

Throughout his career, Shawn has earned numerous industry certifications, including credentials from PPG, Sikkens, ASE, and I‑CAR. Despite an incredibly full schedule, he still finds time to tinker with cars, paint projects, and—somehow—keep up with a feral grandchild. He deeply loves his daughter and son-in-law, treasures friends who have become family, and, by his own account, “tolerates his crazy wife”.

Shawn’s legacy is one of dedication, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to the trades and the students who follow in his footsteps.