Faces of Mining
es: critical minerals, metals and energy that will only continue to grow in importance as technology advances and demand increases. What do you see as Alaska’s biggest challenges? And opportunities? Alaska’s biggest challenges and opportunities are really two sides of the same coin. The cost of living here is in- credibly high; energy, housing, groceries, freight, it all adds up. It’s one of the main reasons we’ve seen people leaving the state. Conversely, the Alaska LNG project is a once-in-a-generation opportunity that would provide a stable source of affordable en - ergy for Alaskans, thousands of good-paying jobs, and billions in new state revenue over time. What keeps you awake at night? Though I try hard to shut work off at night, my mind often stays busy thinking about how to strate- gically balance growth while man- aging all the challenges that come with owning a business. We’re constantly navigating ris- ing costs of goods, labor pressures, and shifting consumer expecta- tions and they all impact how we
move forward. The hard part is growing while staying grounded in what’s made us successful for the last 78 years. What does AMA mean to you? The Alaska Miners Association stands for community, oppor- tunity, and the future of Alaska. Through their events, advocacy, and outreach, they create space for collaboration, support, and shared goals. What do like to do for fun? The best part of Alaska is get- ting outside and enjoying all this amazing state has to offer. In the summer, when I’m not working, you’ll usually find me hiking up a mountain after work or out on the water fly fishing. Every July, I do a 10-day float trip in remote Western Alaska. There’s something incredibly cathartic about being out in the wilderness and not seeing another soul (other than the people in our group) for over a week. Honestly, how can you go wrong when your only thoughts for the day are "what fly should I use" and "what freeze-dried meal should I have for dinner?"
FACES, CONTINUED from PAGE 23
customers out in the field, on the job and in the elements every day. It's easy to get caught up in vendor meetings, product specs, and what looks good on paper, but perfor- mance in true Alaska conditions is what truly matters. What do you love most about this business? The connection to Alaskans. We don’t just sell gear; we outfit peo - ple for the realities of life and work in Alaska. There’s something incredi- bly rewarding about knowing the products we provide help people stay safe, warm, and productive in some of the harshest conditions in the world. Where do you see mining and resource development in Alaska in 50 years? Looking ahead , I’m confident mining and resource development will continue to drive Alaska’s economy and support its com- munities. Alaska has some of the world’s most valuable resourc-
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The Alaska Miner
Summer 2025
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