Alaska Miner Magazine, Summer 2026

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

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THE ALASKA MINER - THE MAGAZINE OF THE ALASKA MINERS ASSOCIATION

SUMMER 2026 | ALASKAMINERS.ORG

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