Annette Brechon Kuyper is a community engagement and workforce development leader with extensive experience building partnerships across the energy, government, nonprofit, military, and Tribal sectors. As the Community Engagement Specialist at Great River Energy, she collaborates with member-owner cooperatives, Tribal Nations, community organizations, and workforce partners to advance community benefits and expand career pathways in Minnesota’s energy sector. 

Annette co-created the Minnesota Indigenous Energy Workforce Initiative (MIEWI) to synchronize statewide efforts to connect the Indigenous workforce to Minnesota’s growing energy sector. Prio to working at Great River Energy, she led the Minnesota Department of Military Affairs in launching the nationally recognized Minnesota Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Community and Company Program, mobilizing thousands of volunteers and strengthening employment support for service members, veterans, and military families. Known for turning complex challenges into collaborative action, she brings expertise in project management, strategic outreach, relationship building, and program development. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies from Saint Catherine University.