“Ashley’s experience working for CGS in various progressive roles, including project management and internal customer service, over the past five years, combined with her earlier experience working for Chugach as an intern and marketing coordinator provides a great backdrop that has prepared her to take on this new role,” Hickel said. “She will be working collaboratively with the Chugach team and our regional partners to identify and implement socio-economic programs and initiatives for our communities and shareholders.”
The launch of this new mentorship role under Hickel is very timely. “With the recent passing of the Biden Infrastructure Law, now is a critical time to access resources to help improve infrastructure and bring benefits to our region, where much of the infrastructure is aging and in need of repair or replacement,” Hickel stated. “This will be one of the major areas that Ashley and I focus on.”
Christensen is excited for the opportunity to learn from Josie and the corporate team. “Chugach’s land and regional initiatives have always interested me,” Christensen said. “Whenever I’ve heard about these projects, I’ve felt this desire to be more directly engaged. Working in this new role now affords me that hands-on engagement, and I am eager to roll up my sleeves and support the team.”
“One of the great things about working for Chugach as a shareholder is, no matter what division you work with, there is personal satisfaction in making a difference for the generations to come,” Christensen continued. “Working for CGS has been personally fulfilling in a number of ways, but it also came down to being a part of our profit centers successes, so my nieces and nephews, the generations to come, are afforded the same support and opportunities I received. Being able to switch gears and support our Community Value Centers provides me with new opportunities to directly impact Chugach’s support to our region.”
Christensen reflects fondly back on her time with CGS. “My tenure with CGS has been one for the books, and I am blessed to have learned from the best government contracting team, so this transition is truly bittersweet. While I’m staying within the Chugach family, I will miss the day-to-day interactions with my CGS teammates, mentors, and friends. I am forever grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and look forward to what the future has in store. Adding Josie to my list of incredible mentors is the icing on the cake!”
Hickel was equally enthusiastic about working with the new Community Development Program Director. “I am excited to welcome Ashley into this new role, and am very much looking forward to working with her to maximize opportunities for the Chugach region and people,” Hickel said.