THE ALASKA MINER MAGAZINE: Our magazine is published quarterly and delivered to both the members of the Alaska Miners Association and to key decision-makers and leaders in Alaska and beyond. Our goal is to educate, advocate, and lead our industry as one of the strongest, oldest, and most productive corporate citizens in Alaska. AMA’s mission is to promote responsible mineral development in Alaska. We provide key communication between our members, the industry, and policymakers in and out of Alaska. Each issue includes news and information important to our industry and our constituents.
THE ALASKA MINER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE ALASKA MINERS ASSOCIATION AND THE MINING INDUSTRY IN ALASKA | VOLUME 54, NUMBER 7: SUMMER 2026
MINING ALASKA'S FUTURE: OUR INDUSTRY IS IN GOOD HANDS
FACES OF MINING: BRENNA SCHAAKE, KINROSS ALASKA
NEWEST ALASKA MINING AND BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY
CENTRAL MINE RESCUE COMPETITION HIGHLIGHTS SAFETY
STEWARDSHIP, SAFETY REMAIN OUR TOP PRIORITIES SUMMER MINING SEASON IN BLOOM!
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REPORT
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ALASKA SUMMER BRINGS WEALTH OF OPPORTUNITY Dear AMA members, friends and Alaska's mining family, There is something special about an Alaska summer. Across our state, helicopters are lifting drills onto remote ridges, exploration crews are mapping new discover- ies, haul trucks are moving ore, suppliers are delivering equipment to some of the most challenging locations in the world and thousands of dedicated professionals are working together to keep Alaska's mining industry moving forward. Summer is our busiest season, but it is also a powerful reminder of what our industry represents: opportunity, innovation and the promise of Alaska's future. This issue of The Alaska Miner celebrates the people who make that future possible. You'll meet miners who are just beginning their careers and experienced profession- als helping shape the next generation of our workforce. You'll read about companies investing in safer operations, stronger communities and the technology that continues to make Alaska mining among the most responsible any- where in the world. You'll also see how the partnerships between operators, contractors, Native corporations, educators and local communities continue to strengthen our industry from Southeast to the North Slope. One of the themes that runs throughout this edition is that Alaska mining is about much more than producing minerals. It is about building careers, supporting fam- ilies, creating opportunities in communities across the state and providing the resources our nation increasingly depends upon. Whether the discussion is critical miner- als, precious metals, infrastructure or workforce devel- Around the world, demand continues to grow for the minerals needed to strengthen America's energy security, national defense, advanced manufacturing and modern technology. Alaska possesses extraordinary mineral resources, but our greatest asset remains the people who responsibly explore, develop and produce them every day. Their professionalism, commitment and resil- ience are what set this industry apart. opment, Alaska has an important role to play. That role has never been more significant.
As activity reaches its peak during the summer months, I also want to encourage everyone to continue making safety the foundation of every decision. Working in Alaska means operating in remote locations, changing weather and demanding conditions. Every safety meeting, every equipment inspection, every well-executed plan and every decision to pause when conditions change reflects the culture that defines responsible mining. Nothing is more important than ensuring every member of our mining family returns home safely every time. I also want to thank our members for the tremendous support you provide to the Alaska Miners Association. Your participation in our branches, committees, advoca- cy efforts and community outreach continues to make our organization stronger. Together, we are telling the story of modern Alaska mining while helping ensure pol- icymakers and the public understand the vital role our industry plays in Alaska's economy and America's future. As you enjoy this issue, I hope you also find time to appreciate what makes an Alaska summer unique — the long days, remarkable landscapes and the incredible people working across our state to responsibly develop Alaska's abundant resources. Thank you for everything you do to support our industry. I wish each of you a safe, productive and successful mining season, and I look forward to seeing you this fall at the Alaska Miners Association Convention in Anchorage. Together, we are helping build a stronger future for Alaska. Deantha Skibinski AMA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Deantha, Jennifer and Carin had a wonderful time recently at AEMA’s fourth annual Summer Summit!
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table of contents
THE EXPERTISE AND VERSATILITY TO MOVE PROJECTS FORWARD
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MESSAGE FROM AMA’S PRESIDENT
PLAN NOW FOR CONVENTION 2026! The Alaska Miners Association Annual Convention and Trade Show is scheduled for Nov. 2-5 at the Dena’ina Center in Anchorage and will again be the highlight of the Alaska mining calendar.
FACES OF MINING: BRENNA SCHAAKE Brenna Schaake, Community Relations Manager for Kinross Alaska, shares how Kinross is helping better the communities the company serves.
Our responsibility is to honor our Alaska mining heritage not by accepting unnecessary risk, but by managing risk better than ever before, writes AMA President Dave Larimer.
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JUNEAU GOLD RUSH DAYS 2026 Juneau Gold Rush Days was again a huge success, bringing together thousands of Alaskans and visitors to celebrate our mining and lumber industry traditions and heritage.
ALASKA MINING & BUSINESS SERVICE DIRECTORY See the Newest Alaska Mining Business and Service Directory, the companies and individuals serving our vital industry.
SAFETY HAS NEVER BEEN MORE VITAL Five mine rescue teams from Alaska and the Lower 48 competed in the 50th Annual Central Mine Rescue Competition in May in Juneau. See highlights from the event!
EDITORIAL CALENDAR Fall 2026 | Annual Anchorage Convention Winter 2027 | Legislative and Season Preview Spring 2027 | Alaska Mining Project Updates Summer 2027 | Impact of Alaska Mining
ALASKA MINERS ASSOCIATION STAFF Deantha Skibinski, Executive Director Jennifer Luiten, Membership & Fundraising Director Carin Currier, Projects & Communications Manager Darlene Strickland, Bookkeeper/Membership The Alaska Miner Magazine is published in partnership with the Alaska Miners Association by Fireweed Strategies LLC, 4849 Potter Crest Circle, Anchorage, AK 99516.
The Alaska Miner is dedicated to those who work in and support the mining industry in Alaska, its commitment to the people, and resources of our state. Our magazine is published quarterly and delivered to both the members of the Alaska Miners Association and to key decision makers and leaders in Alaska and beyond. Our goal is to educate, advocate and lead our industry as one of the strongest, oldest and most productive corporate citizens in Alaska. AMA’s mission is to promote responsible mineral development in Alaska.
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BRANCH CHAIRMEN Victor Ross, Anchorage Ethan Trickey, Denali Vanessa Larimer, Fairbanks Jan Hill, Haines Jason Hart, Juneau Houston Morris, Kenai Blake Bogart, Nome Robert Fithian, Ketchikan/Prince of Wales
We actively seek contributions from our members and the mining industry. Please email
stories and photos to Lee Leschper at Lee.Leschper@FireweedStrategies.com.
ADVERTISING RATES AND NEW TIPS For advertising information, or to submit news, story ideas and photos, contact Lee Leschper at 907-957-6025 or Lee.Leschper@FireweedStrategies.com.
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
providers and project teams all doing the work required to send people home safe. The Manh Choh transportation system has also put a public spotlight on safety planning, driver training, vehicle monitoring and winter-road disci- pline. In a state where distance, weather, darkness and ice are part of the operating environment, that kind of focus is not optional … it is mission critical. At Usibelli, Alaska’s only operating coal mine, generations of Interior Alaska families have built a long mining legacy tied directly to local power, heat, military installations, schools, hospitals, homes and businesses. At Fort Knox, Pogo, Kensington, Greens Creek, Red Dog and across our exploration camps, safety is not separate from production. It is how production is made possible. The national record tells the same story. MSHA recently reported that the U.S. mining industry reached an all-time low all-injury rate in 2025, at 1.74 reportable injuries per 200,000 hours worked. That progress did not happen by accident. It reflects years of investment in safer equipment,
better systems, stronger training, smarter enforce- ment and a workforce that understands produc- tion and safety are not competing priorities. That does not mean the job is finished. Alaska’s field season brings real risks: remote sites, avia- tion, river crossings, helicopters, weather, wildlife, heavy equipment, fatigue, camp life, long shifts and long days in challenging ground. The standard has to remain high. This summer, I want to thank every AMA member for advancing projects, producing minerals, sup- plying equipment, building roads, hauling freight, running camps, training crews, maintaining equip- ment and supporting Alaska’s mining economy. Let’s make this a productive season. Let’s make it a safe season. And let’s keep proving that Alaska mining honors its heritage by leading with safety. Dave Larimer AMA PRESIDENT
SAFETY, HERITAGE AND ALASKA MINING SEASON
Across the state, AMA members are back in the field, on the claims, at the drills, in the pits, underground, in the shops, in the labs, on the haul roads and across the support network that keeps Alaska mining moving. This is the season when geology turns into knowledge, knowledge turns into opportunity and opportunity turns into mines, jobs, investment and mineral production for Alaska and the nation. But none of that matters if we do not do it safely. Safety is not a slogan in this industry. It is a virtue, a discipline and a shared responsibility. It shows up in the morning safety meeting, the pre-op inspection, the buddy check, the clean work area, the properly maintained road, the radio call, the lockout-tagout procedure, the aviation plan, the bear briefing, the weather call and the decision to stop and reassess when conditions change. Alaska mining has always been hard work. From the early placer camps and drift mines of the Interior to today’s large mines, advanced exploration proj- ects, family placer operations, contractors, vendors and service companies, our industry has been built by people willing to do difficult work in difficult country. That heritage matters. The miners who came before us were tough, capable and deter- mined. They also worked in an era when many of the safety systems we now take for granted did not yet exist. That history is sobering. Early records from Alaska’s Territorial Mine Inspector reports, including acci- dent indexes from 1911 through 1936, document hundreds of serious and fatal mining accidents across the territory. Those names and incidents are more than statistics. They are a reminder that Alaska’s mining heritage was built by real people who took real risks, and too many paid the highest price. Modern safety expectations, including feder- ally enforceable mine safety and health standards, exist because the industry and the nation learned hard lessons over time. For responsible operators,
MSHA compliance should not be viewed simply as paperwork or bureaucracy. It is part of our license to operate, a core workforce protection and a key part of maintaining public credibility. Our responsibility is to honor that heritage not by accepting unnecessary risk, but by managing risk better than ever before. Today, Alaska has real examples to point to. Hecla Greens Creek has publicly emphasized that safety begins with quality people, strong training and leadership, and the mine has been recognized for technology-driven safety innovation. Greens Creek’s use of collision-avoidance technology is a good example of how modern mining applies practical tools to protect workers and improve operations. AMA’s own Hard Hat Safety Award has recognized strong safety leadership across the industry, including Donlin Gold, Black Gold Transport, Hecla Greens Creek, Lucky Shot Mine, Millrock Resources, Northern Star’s Pogo Mine and Kinross Fort Knox. Those awards matter because they reflect the full range of Alaska mining: operating mines, explo- ration companies, contractors, transportation "Alaska mining has always been hard work. From the early placer camps and drift mines of the Interior to today’s large mines, advanced explo- ration projects, family placer opera- tions, contractors, vendors and service companies, our industry has been built by people willing to do difficult work in difficult country. That heri - tage matters. The miners who came before us were tough, capable and determined. They also worked in an era when many of the safety systems we now take for granted did not yet exist."
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AMA CONVENTION 2025 AMA CONVENTION 2026
PLAN NOW FOR OUR ANNUAL CONVENTION AND TRADE SHOW!
Join us for the biggest show in Alaska Mining! n The 2026 Alaska Miners Association Annual Convention n Nov. 2-5, Dena’ina Center, Anchorage n The annual convention and trade show is a great event that boasts more than 1,000 attendees representing our Alaska mining family. n Convention week includes many networking events, the largest mining trade show in the state, representatives from all operating mines and potential mining development projects in Alaska, educational short courses and technical sessions. Plus, our annual awards banquet celebrating the best and brightest of Alaska mining! n To register and to find complete convention information, please visit our website at AlaskaMiners.org.
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AMA CONVENTION 2025 AMA CONVENTION 2026
Thank you — sponsors and trade show vendors — for your invaluable support!
HEAVY EQUIPMENT VENDORS Alaska Minerals Inc. Construction Machinery Industrial, LLC Equipment Source, Inc.
Marine Minerals Administration Minn-Alaska Transport LLC Modern Machinery Company Motion & Flow Control Products MSALABS Inc.
MTA NMS Northern Star Resources (Pogo) LLC Northwest Pump NSF Critical Mineral Accelerator Engine in Alaska (NSF ACMA Engine) Oxford Assaying & Refining Corp Redpath USA Corporation Republic Services
GOLD SPONSORS Alaska Airlines Construction Machinery Industrial, LLC Felix Gold Ltd. Hecla Greens Creek Mining Company Northern Star Resources(Pogo) LLC Oxford Assaying & Refining Corp.
COPPER SPONSORS Alaska Roteq Chugach Alaska Corporation ConocoPhillips Lynden Major Drilling NMS North of 60 Mining News Republic Services
VENDORS Acrow Corporation of America ACZ Laboratories, Inc. AGRU America Alasconnect Alaska Aggregate Products, LLC Alaska Airlines Alaska Business Alaska Dreams, Inc.
RESPEC Sandvik Shoreside Petroleum Inc. SLR International Corporation
Alaska Industrial Hardware, Inc. Alaska Midnight Sun Drilling Inc. Alaska Petroleum Alaska Resource Education Alaska Roteq ALS Automatic Welding & Supply Corp. Barr Engineering Co. Black Gold Transport, LLC Bowhead Transport ChemTreat Delta P Pump a Beckwith & Kuffel Company Ensero Solutions Equity Exploration Consultants Ltd. Everts Air Cargo Fairbanks Materials Inc. Felix Gold Ltd Frontier Supply Horst Expediting & Remote Operations, Inc.
RESPEC Sandvik
SILVER SPONSORS Alaska Aggregate Products, LLC Alaska Business Alaska Frontier Constructors
Soloy Helicopters, LLC Sophie Station Suites SRK Consulting Stantec Consulting Services Inc. State of Alaska DNR Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys Techline Alaska Thor Global Thyssen Mining Inc. Top Shelf Realty
SRK Consulting Stoel Rives LLP
COAL SPONSORS Industrial Pumps of Alaska SLR International Corporation
ASRC Energy Services BGC Engineering, Inc. Hy-Tech Drilling USA Inc. Redpath USA Corporation WSP USA Inc.
TOTE Maritime Alaska TTT Environmental, LLC
GRAVEL SPONSORS Black Gold Transport, LLC
UAF Alaska Critical Minerals Collaborative Udelhoven Oilfield System Services, Inc. US Geological Survey Weir Women in Mining Alaska Chapter Zonge International Inc.
Scan the QR code for more convention details!
SPECIALTY SPONSORS Lanyard Sponsor: Ruen Drilling, Inc.
Hy-Tech Drilling USA Inc. Industrial Pumps of Alaska Inlet Energy
TABLE TOP VENDORS 49th Freight Minconsult Exploration Services North of 60 Mining News WSP USA Inc.
JCM Industries, Inc. Kiewit Mining Group Logic Geophysics & Analytics LLC Lynden Major Drilling
For more information on sponsoring the convention, call or email Jennifer Luiten, Membership and Fundraising Director at 907-270-9232; jennifer@AlaskaMiners.org.
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that strong community relationships are the foun- dation of a sustainable mine. She taught me that listening is just as important as communicating, and that building trust takes time, transparency and consistency. That principle continues to guide how I approach every partnership. What lessons have you learned that you want to share with new miners? Be curious and stay humble. Mining is a complex, fast- paced industry with a lot of moving pieces. There’s always more to learn, whether you're in operations, engineering or community relations. Also, never under- estimate the power of teamwork. Mines succeed when everyone pulls together, from the haul truck driver to the environmental engineer to the community liaison. What would you do differently? I wish I would have hopped in a haul truck sooner for a ride-along! I was fortunate to be in the field quite a bit my first year and I think that understanding the science and operations behind the work gives you a deeper appreciation for the decisions being made and helps you better represent the industry to the public. It definelty helped me give more in-depth tours to youths and adults alike! What was one experience you will never forget? Attending the groundbreaking and first gold pour for Manh Choh with tribal and village leaders was incredibly powerful. Standing on land with deep cultural and historic significance, sharing stories and hearing the hopes of local residents reminded me why responsible, respectful development matters. What do you love most about this business? The people. Miners are some of the hardest-work- ing, innovative, most down-to-earth folks you’ll ever meet. I also love that this industry offers real opportunities for Alaskans, good jobs, training and a pathway to stay and thrive in the state we love. Where do you see mining in Alaska in 50 years? I see a future where mining continues to be a pillar of the Alaskan economy, powered by innovation, guided by sustainability and driven by a workforce
FACES OF MINING: BRENNA SCHAAKE
that reflects the diversity and resilience of our communities. Our ability to mine responsibly while partnering with local and Indigenous stakeholders will be the key to long-term success. What do you see as our biggest challeng- es? And opportunities? The challenge is earning and maintaining public trust in an increasingly complex social and regula- tory landscape. The opportunity is to lead the way in showing that responsible mining is possible and that it can coexist with environmental stewardship, Brenna, who was named Miss Alaska USA in 2024, has enjoyed volunteering for a number of causes, including breast cancer awareness.
Brenna Schaake (center) says community engagement remains a top priority for mining operations across Alaska.
What is your role and how did you get into the industry? I'm the Community Relations Manager for Kinross Alaska, supporting both the Fort Knox and Manh Choh operations. My role focuses on community engagement, strategic communications, stake- holder relations and supporting social perfor- mance initiatives across the state. I came into mining with a background in public relations and community outreach. What drew me in was the opportunity to work for a resource development company that cares about the com- munities they operate in.
Who was your mentor in this indus- try and what did they teach you that remains true today? I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors, many coming from resource development like Meadow Riedel and Marisa Sharrah, but one who stands out is Anna Atchison. She championed the idea Brenna Schaake is Community Relations Manager for Kinross Alaska. We asked Brenna to tell us more about her career in mining as well as how Kinross is helping better the communities the company serves.
cultural respect and economic progress. What keeps you awake at night?
Making sure we’re doing right by the communities we work in. I think a lot about how our actions today shape perceptions for the next generation, especially in places where mining hasn’t always had a positive legacy.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
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"I see a future where mining continues to be a pillar of the Alaskan economy, powered by innovation, guided by sus- tainability and driven by a workforce that reflects the diversity and resilience of our communities. Our ability to mine responsibly while partnering with local and Indigenous stakeholders will be the key to long-term success."
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Kinross Alaska holds many community events annually, which allows Brenna to directly engage with Alaskans.
During my time as Miss Alaska USA, I proudly advo- cated for both breast cancer awareness and Alaska’s mining industry while volunteering in communities across the state. A fun fact: my state costume at Miss USA was mining-themed, blending traditional mining elements with leaves and flowers to repre- sent reclamation and environmental stewardship. Anything else you want to share? Alaska is special, and so is its mining industry. We have a unique chance to lead not just in gold pro- duction, but in how we engage communities, protect the environment and inspire future generations. I'm proud to be part of that story.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15
What does AMA mean to you? The Alaska Miners Association represents unity. It’s a platform where miners from every corner of the state come together to share knowledge, advocate for responsible development and ensure our industry has a strong voice in Alaska’s future. What do you like to do for fun? When I’m not on-site or at a community event, I love spending time outdoors, especially skiing, snowma- chining and exploring Alaska.
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2022 Deere 824L ….….….…… #84 - 82403 6578 Hrs, Cab w Heat, 4 Wheel Drive, JRB Quick Connect, 6 CY Bucket Juneau, AK ……………..……….…. $269,500
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JUNEAU GOLD RUSH DAYS
Juneau Gold Rush Days 2026 was another huge success, bringing together thousands of Alaskans and visitors in June to celebrate our mining and lumber industry traditions and heritage. Thank you to everyone who helps make this one of our state's signature annual events, including sponsors, volunteers and attendees! Photos by Kally DiMarzio, Coeur Alaska Kensington Mine
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JUNEAU GOLD RUSH DAYS
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JUNEAU GOLD RUSH DAYS
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JUNEAU GOLD RUSH DAYS
NEXT GEN SHOTPLUS™ MODELLING THE FUTURE OF DRILL AND BLAST
Improve blast visibility
Increase performance
Improve collaboration
Manage uncertainty
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“This is more than an investment in critical miner- als; it is an investment in Alaska’s people, our future and our ability to lead the nation in innovation,” she said. “Lee Ann, UAF and others across the UA system have worked tirelessly for years on this project, and I am excited to see the discoveries, technology and advancements that come from this effort over the next decade.” The Geophysical Institute provided important early funding to help develop the engine in 2024 and con- tinues to support its goals. Geophysical Institute Director Robert McCoy said the institute is well-positioned to help the nation. “As a globally recognized leader in Arctic geoscienc- es, our researchers have an extraordinary wealth of knowledge that can turn the goals of the new innovation engine into a reality,” he said. “We are also working with several other federal agencies to advance domestic critical minerals production.” Each of the 12 new NSF Engines must meet clear goals to receive funding after the first two years. Funding for the NSF program also depends on approval from Congress. The first nine NSF Engines received funding in early 2024 and are beginning to show strong results. So far, $135 million in federal funding has attracted more than $2 billion in matching commitments from private companies, charitable organizations and state and local governments. “Our NSF Engine is built on the simple but ambitious idea that Alaska can lead the nation not only with the abundance of its critical mineral resources, but also in how we inno- vate, develop and deploy the tech- nologies needed to produce them responsibly. “By bringing together researchers, Alaska Native organizations, industry, workforce partners, state and federal agencies, national laboratories and communities, we are creating an engine that accelerates discovery into action.” — Dr. Lee Ann Munk, Director of UAF’s Alaska Critical Minerals Collaborative
Research assistant professor Florian Hofmann of the UAF Geophysical Institute’s Geochronology Lab explains the lab’s argon mass spectrometer. UAF Geophysical Institute photo
communities, we are creating an engine that acceler- ates discovery into action,” she said. Alaska contains 56 of the 60 minerals that the U.S. Geological Survey considers essential to the nation’s economy and national security. Supplies of these minerals could be disrupted because the United States depends heavily on other countries for them. Minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, germanium, gallium and rare earth elements are used in batteries, smartphones, computer chips, medical equipment, power grids, aircraft and defense technologies. “NSF Engines investment in critical technologies and future industries will transform America’s innova- tion infrastructure for decades to come,” said Brian Stone, performing the duties of NSF director. “The NSF Critical Mineral Accelerator Engine will strengthen workforce capacity and unlock new busi- ness and supply chain opportunities as it moves to unlock Alaska’s expansive critical mineral resources,” he said. The Alaska engine will bring together advanced technologies for mining, processing and purification. It will also use artificial intelligence to help locate mineral deposits and study new biological methods for extracting minerals. It will support industries such as manufacturing, materials development, artificial intelligence, bio- technology and energy technology. The engine will also expand workforce training and create paths to high-quality jobs, especially in remote Alaska communities. Gov. Mike Dunleavy and the Alaska Legislature pro- vided $500,000 in one-time funding. The funding depended on NSF selecting the Alaska project. “Alaska doesn’t only have a tremendous abundance of natural resources, but we also have tremendously talented people working to develop breakthrough technologies to further unlock Alaska’s resource potential and reduce America’s dependence on China for mineral processing,” Dunleavy said. “This support from the National Science Foundation reflects Alaska’s central role in innovative and responsible resource development.” Interim University of Alaska President Michelle Rizk said the engine shows what the university and its partners can accomplish by working together.
CRITICAL MINERAL ACCELERATOR ENGINE AT UAF WINS $15M GRANT
could receive as much as $160 million over 10 years. It is led by Lee Ann Munk of the UAF Geophysical Institute. Munk is also a geosciences professor in the UAF College of Natural Science and Mathematics. “Our NSF Engine is built on the simple but ambitious idea that Alaska can lead the nation not only with the abundance of its critical mineral resources,” Munk said, “but also in how we innovate, develop and deploy the technologies needed to produce them responsibly.” “By bringing together researchers, Alaska Native organizations, industry, workforce partners, state and federal agencies, national laboratories and
BY ROD BOYCE, UAF The U.S. National Science Foundation has announced that it will fund a major critical minerals project led by the University of Alaska Fairbanks. The regional collaboration aims to reduce the nation’s depen- dence on imported critical minerals used in everyday products and important to national security. The Alaska project was selected as one of the new NSF Regional Innovation Engines. NSF selected 12 teams working across 20 states. The NSF Critical Mineral Accelerator Engine in Alaska will receive $15 million during its first two years and
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50TH ANNUAL CENTRAL MINE RESCUE COMPETITION
Five mine rescue teams from Alaska and the Lower 48 competed in the 50th Annual Central Mine Rescue Competition in May in Juneau. Teams from Greens Creek, Kensington, Pogo, Galena and Lucky Friday competed in critical safety disciplines including field competition (search and rescue), first aid, benching (breathing apparatus testing and repair), tech team (gas detector testing and repair, and ventilation measuring) and rope rescue. The competition and camaraderie of the event helps safety teams strengthen the critical skills needed during real-life mine rescue situations. Congratulations to everyone who took part and illustrating just how important safety is to our Alaska mining operations! Photos by Central Mine Rescue, Mines
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50TH ANNUAL CENTRAL MINE RESCUE COMPETITION
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First Aid Kensington, First Place Lucky Friday, Second Place Pogo, Third Place
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MINING ALASKA'S FUTURE: DONLIN GOLD
BUILDING ALASKA’S WORKFORCE REQUIRES COMMITTED EFFORT
ways of life that are important to them.
BY BRENDA PACARRO, DONLIN GOLD It is an exciting time for Donlin Gold and for the future of workforce development in Alaska. Across our state, communities have long demon- strated the importance of working together, adapt- ing through challenges and remaining grounded in the cultural values that continue to guide and strengthen Alaska families and communities. At Donlin Gold, workforce development is viewed as more than filling positions; it is about creating long- term opportunities that support economic stability, strengthening resiliency and helping future gener- ations remain connected to the communities and
As the project continues to advance through the planning and development phases, Donlin Gold is taking a thoughtful and strategic approach to preparing Alaska’s workforce for future oppor- tunities. This includes ongoing engagement with training organizations, apprenticeship programs, educational institutions, workforce agencies, Alaska Native organizations and regional partners to better understand workforce readiness, future hiring needs, training capacity and opportunities for collaboration.
Donlin Gold recently welcomed five high school graduates as interns, all of whom are from the Calista Region, with three being from The Kuskokwim Corporation Region. Having completed various Alaska EXCEL programs and recently graduated from the Mining and Petroleum Training Service (MAPTS) in Delta Junction, these interns represent the next generation of skilled leaders, bringing enthusiasm, determination and a strong foundation as they begin exploring careers in Alaska’s resource industry. Summer interns from left to right are Myson Imgalrea (Chevak), Marvin Pingayak (Chevak), Dylan Nicholson (Aniak), Aiden John (Crooked Creek) and Karson Peterson (Aniak). Photo by Alaska EXCEL
CONTINUED ON PAGE 36
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MINING ALASKA'S FUTURE: DONLIN GOLD
awareness of shareholder-hire priorities from the earliest stages of project planning. Donlin Gold recognizes that workforce devel- opment begins long before someone applies for a position. Through partnerships and outreach efforts such as Alaska EXCEL, internships, aca- demic events, career exposure opportunities and regional hiring events, the company hopes to help students and future workers better under- stand the broad range of careers connected to projects like Donlin Gold, including trades, opera- tions, environmental stewardship, camp services, administration, logistics, safety and technical professions. Donlin Gold also recognizes the importance of investing in current employees by supporting career pathways, certifications and professional development opportunities that help individ- uals and families build long-term success. In many Alaska communities, opportunities that allow people to build meaningful careers while remaining connected to home, family, and culture
carries lasting importance. There is pride in seeing local people trained, prepared, and succeed- ing in careers that strengthen both families and communities. While significant work remains ahead, the goal is clear: build a workforce strategy that is col- laborative, community-informed, realistic and focused on creating lasting opportunities for Alaskans. By investing in partnerships, workforce planning, training coordination and youth engage- ment, Donlin Gold hopes to help support stronger futures for Alaska families and communities for generations to come. Brenda Pacarro serves as a Human Resources Business Partner – Training and Shareholder Development at Donlin Gold, supporting work- force development and career-pathway initia- tives for the region. She was the Shareholder and Descendant Programs Manager at Cook Inlet Region, Inc. from 2024 to 2026, and the Workforce and Shareholder Development Manager at Calista Corporation from 2010 to 2024.
potential areas for partnership and coordination. The information gathered will help support future workforce planning efforts, identify training and development opportunities, better align work- force investments with projected workforce needs and strengthen long-term collaboration across Alaska’s workforce development network. Organizations interested in participating or receiv- ing the questionnaire are encouraged to contact the Donlin Gold workforce development team. Collaboration remains central to this approach. Donlin Gold continues recurring workforce coordi- nation meetings with Calista Corporation and The Kuskokwim Corporation to strengthen communi- cation, align workforce priorities and support local and shareholder hire opportunities. The company will also work collaboratively with contractors and subcontractors to foster strong workforce part- nerships, local engagement, safety alignment and
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34 A key focus of this work is the development of a Regional Development Plan that aligns workforce strategies with future project phases, from early works and construction through long-term oper- ations. This effort includes evaluating projected workforce demand, available labor supply, work- force participation opportunities and potential workforce gaps over time to help support respon- sible, long-term development. As a part of this effort, Donlin Gold recently distributed a statewide training capacity ques- tionnaire to training providers, workforce orga- nizations, educational institutions and appren- ticeship programs across Alaska. The purpose of the questionnaire is to better understand current program offerings, training capacity, anticipat- ed growth opportunities, geographic reach and
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internship at Tyler Rental while I was still in school. That combination of hands-on experience and supported education was invaluable. What lessons have you learned that you want to share with new miners? Don't be afraid to ask questions. It's a completely different world down there and seeing it for the first time can feel overwhelming. But in my experi- ence, everyone genuinely wants you to succeed. No one expects you to know everything on day one, they just want to see that you're engaged and willing to learn. What was one experience you will never forget? My first trip underground was when I was about 11. It was a tour of the historic AJ Mine in Juneau, which operated from 1917-44. A lot of original machinery is still on site, and some- thing about being around it just hooked me. At that age, it was mind-blowing the things that went into pulling gold out of the ground. While the methods have changed to make modern mining significantly safer and more techno- logically advanced, many of the core principles remain the same. What would you tell people outside the industry about the importance of mining? There's an old saying, “if it can't be farmed, it has to be mined.” As a lifelong Alaskan, I take our environ- ment seriously. This land means every- thing to us. But the reality is that the resources under our feet are essential, especially with how fast technology is advancing. What I can say from my experience is that the level of care I've seen in this industry, from under- ground operations to the North Slope, is second to none when it comes to being low impact and responsible. That matters, and I don't think people outside the industry always know that.
MINING ALASKA'S FUTURE: KRISTOFER ELY
Briefly describe the work you do? I'm an underground truck driver. I operate 30- and 45-ton trucks, switching between back hauling and long-haul trips running loads from the bottom of the mine out to the surface. Every shift is a little different depending on what is needed for the day. What brought you or attracted you to work in the mining industry? Growing up in Juneau, a town with a deep mining history, had a lot to do with it. My first trip under- ground was when I was about 11 years old and I was hooked. As I got older, a lot of my friends' dads worked at the local mines, and I started hearing more about the different career paths available. It felt like a natural direction. What has surprised you most about your job and what do you enjoy most? The family-like culture at camp. I’m only 22 and I
am made to feel a part of the team. When you're away from your family, that kind of environment goes a long way. As for what I enjoy most, it's the learning. Being as young as I am, I have so many opportunities to build my skill set. I try to learn as much as I can. What helped you prepare to pursue this career? It was the opportunity Coeur Alaska gave me. I was taking diesel technology classes at the University of Southeast Alaska during my senior year of high school when my professor, Tom Dolan, encour- aged me to look into mining. Coeur Alaska’s Mobile Mechanic Trainee Program was just the right fit. They covered my tuition and set me up with an Kristofer Ely is an underground miner at the Coeur Alaska Kensington Mine. We asked him to tell us more about how the young miner got his start in the Alaska mining industry.
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MINING ALASKA'S FUTURE: GIRLS WHO WELD
Fairbanks North Star Borough School District recently hosted its summer Girls Who Weld program at North Pole High School. Students from high schools across the district gained valuable hands-on experience while learning real-world skills, including welding safety, gas metal arc welding, shielded metal arc welding, and torch and plasma cutting. Led by 2026 Alaska Teacher of the Year Pete Daley, the Career & Technical Education (CTE) program introduces students to careers in welding and the skilled trades while helping them build workforce-ready skills. In addition to building custom bicycle racks for the city of North Pole, the girls visited Kinross Alaska for a firsthand look at career opportunities in Alaska's mining industry. Thank you to everyone involved in this exceptional program for supporting the workforce of the future! Photos by Fairbanks North Star Borough School District
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MINING ALASKA'S FUTURE: POGO MINE
HISTORIC MILESTONE: FROM PROSPECT TO PROVEN PRODUCER
expertise shaped the mine from concept to a corner- stone of Alaska’s Interior economy, including three 20-year employees: Ken Bartlett, Ryan Folsom, and Dave Brottem, whose tenure reflects the skill, resil- ience and commitment of the workforce that has powered Pogo since its earliest days. Spanning 20 years of operations, Pogo Mine has delivered sustained, large-scale economic value to Alaska, including more than 5.4 million ounces of gold produced. Other numbers as of February:
COURTESY NORTHERN STAR RESOURCES Leaders, employees and honored guests gathered this spring to celebrate Pogo Mine’s 20th anniversary gold pour, a milestone marking not only longevity, but extraordinary performance and economic contribution far exceeding original expectations. The celebratory gold pour took place at the mine site on Feb. 12, 2026, exactly 20 years after Pogo’s first gold pour in 2006. The commemorative gold bar weighed 714 ounces, valued at approximately $3.5 million, a power- ful symbol of the mine’s enduring contribution to Alaska’s economy and the modern world.
Karl Hanneman (left), original Project Manager during development with Teck Resources Limited, who played a pivotal role in permitting and constructing the mine site, and Mick Eckert, current General Manager, representing the next chapter of leadership and operational excellence, hold the 20th anniversary gold bar from Pogo Mine. Photos by Judy Patrick
n More than 20.7 million tons milled and processed
CONTINUED ON PAGE 44
In attendance were individuals whose vision and
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