Author: Randi Gause

Chugach Government Solutions Appoints Chris Crosta to Vice President of Business Development

Crosta brings over 13 years of experience dedicated to leading business development (BD) for Alaska Native Corporations and Tribes. He has supported Chugach in a BD capacity for over seven years, including his most recent position as Senior Director of Business Development.

CGS President, Scott Davis, shared of Crosta, “I’m excited to see how Chris will develop and continue to grow our BD team. Chris exemplifies a leader that brings people together as a collaborative team working toward a common goal – it’s just that kind of leadership that will help CGS be successful.”

His prior experience includes increasing responsibilities at other Native firms, both establishing and growing Federal Government contracting services business lines. Crosta has a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics from the University of Idaho.

About Chugach Government Solutions:

As a federal division of Chugach Alaska Corporation, Chugach Government Solutions and its subsidiaries offer small business flexibility and 8(a) eligibility, coupled with industry-leading techniques, process, and innovation. We distinguish ourselves from competitors by delivering uncompromising quality at a fair price. We seek consistency in quality and actively innovate, finding new ways of doing business that add value to our government customers.

Chugach Government Solutions Promotes Bill Rogers to Senior Vice President of Administrative Services

Rogers started at Chugach in 2015 joining the ranks of the CGS Executive Leadership Team as Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer. In that capacity he has managed all legal matters for CGS and its subsidiary companies. During his tenure he’s proven himself not only an exceptional legal counsel, but also an invaluable strategist and leader.

CGS President, Scott Davis, shared of Rogers, “Bill’s extensive experience speaks for itself. The leadership, seasoned perspective, and strategic insights that he’s brought to CGS have been beyond measure. We count ourselves fortunate that he’s continuing his commitment to Chugach, its customers, employees and shareholder by accepting this role.”

Prior to his time at Chugach, Rogers has served as legal counsel and provided legal services in  various capacities including for the District of Columbia Courts, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Department of Veterans Affairs, and as the Principle for the Law Office of William Rogers.  Additionally, he served as Judge Advocate during his Active Duty for the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard. He received many accolades and career achievements during his military services including serving as Deputy Staff Judge Advocate for the Air Force Space Command, receiving the Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with 2 Devices, and the Air Force Judge Advocate Outstanding Career Attorney Service Award, to name a few. Rogers earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Maryland, his Juris Doctor from Delaware Law School, his Master of Science in Information Systems from George Washington University, and completed the Strategic Executive Development Program at Kenan-Flagler Business School.

About Chugach Government Solutions, LLC:

As a federal division of Chugach Alaska Corporation, Chugach Government Solutions, LLC, and its subsidiaries offer small business flexibility and 8(a) eligibility, coupled with industry-leading techniques, process, and innovation. We distinguish ourselves from competitors by delivering uncompromising quality at a fair price. We seek consistency in quality and actively innovate, finding new ways of doing business that add value to our government customers.

EVOS Trustee’s Decision Supports Alaska Native Communities

More work needs to be done to better serve Alaska Native Communities impacted by the Exxon Valdez tragedy.

The Exxon Valdez Oil Spill (EVOS) Trustees voted yesterday to utilize the remainder of the original $900 million in settlement funds allocated for the restoration of damaged ecosystems in spill-impacted communities. In the past 27 years, very little EVOS Trustee Council funding has gone to local, Native communities and organizations impacted by t

Camp participants collect bidarkis during Chugach;s annual Nuuciq Spirit Camp. Among other projects, the EVOS Trustee Council voted to fund $2.4 million to support subsistence resources through Chugach region culture camps.

he spill. Now, nearly 30 years after the spill, a portion of the approximately $200 million in remaining funds will be used to benefit the spill-affected communities.

 

“The economic and cultural impacts of the spill are irreversible. While there’s still work to do to help communities impacted by the spill, we applaud the EVOS Trustee’s decision to fund museum revitalization projects that will preserve and protect invaluable cultural and archaeological resources impacted by the oil spill,” said Koniag President Shauna Hegna.

“The EVOS Trustee Council was intended to provide support for those affected by the spill,” said Chugach Alaska Corporation Executive Vice President of Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) and Community Affairs Josie Hickel. “We’re pleased with the Council’s recent decision to honor their mission to restore spill-affected areas, and to help support and grow local cultures, economies and communities.”

On March 24, 1989, the environment in Prince William Sound was forever changed when the Exxon Valdez spilled 11 million gallons of crude oil into the ocean, contaminating over 1,300 miles of coastline. Countless generations of Chugachmiut (Chugach Alaska Corporation) and Alutiiq (Koniag) people who have lived and learned to fish, hunt and celebrate their culture in the area have been impacted by the Exxon Valdez oil spill.

Koniag and Chugach Alaska Corporation shareholders comprise approximately 26% of the population within their region. In terms of land holdings, when combining surface and subsurface estate, Koniag holds titles to approximately 39% of their region’s land, while Chugach Alaska Corporation owns 9% of their region’s land.

The EVOS Trustee Council was established through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) and consent decree (Decree) between the State of Alaska and the United States. The Council includes representatives from Federal and State departments including the Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game, Alaska Dept. of Environmental Conservation, Alaska Dept. of Law, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of the Interior. The MOA and Decree resolved how to manage and spend the $900 million settlement fund.

About Koniag, Inc.

Koniag, Inc. is one of the 13 Alaska Native regional corporations established in 1971 by the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA). Koniag represents the Alutiiq people from Alaska’s Kodiak Island region. Koniag manages a diverse portfolio of operating companies and real estate holdings.  For more information, visit www.Koniag.com.

About Chugach Alaska Corporation

Chugach Alaska Corporation is one of the 13 Alaska Native regional corporations established in 1971 by the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA). Chugach Alaska Corporation represents the Chugachmiut, Alutiiq (Sugpiaq), Eyak (Athabascan) and Tlingit people from the Kenai Peninsula and the coast of Prince William Sound region. Chugach Alaska Corporation has a portfolio of complementary businesses and investments across a range of industries. For more information, visit www.Chugach.com.

2021 Board Election Announcement

Congratulations to Brenda Dukart and Sheri Buretta on being reelected to the board, and congratulations to newly elected Board of Director Sheila Borer.

The Chugach board, the executive management team and all of the Chugach shareholders thank Vincent Mulcahy for his time on the board and for his service to the Chugach community. The election results and annual meeting prize winners can be found on the Shareholder Portal.

Executive Vice President & General Counsel Melanie Osborne named 2021 Woman of Achievement

The award recognizes the exceptional leadership of women and youth in Alaska. Ten women and five youth are selected each year based on their demonstrated leadership professionally and/or personally, and their service to the community that aligns with the YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

“Melanie has been a steadfast force for good here at Chugach, and is well-deserving of this award,” says President and Chief Operating Officer Daniel Fenza. “She is committed to uplifting and empowering others, whether through her leadership and mentorship at Chugach, or her community service and generosity in the Alaska community.”

Osborne joined Chugach as General Counsel in 2014. She is a member of the executive team, which drives the company to provide meaningful programs and benefits to more than 2,800 Alaska Native shareholders. In addition to providing legal and compliance support, she leads human resources, risk management and facilities services.

Osborne is also a lifelong Alaskan with a passion for advocating for her fellow community members. Melanie sits on the Boards of the Anchorage Association of Women Lawyers (AAWL), Alaska Legal Services Corporation, and the The Nature Conservancy Alaska. She is also actively involved in supporting community organizations and events through the Covenant House Alaska Sleep-out, AAWL’s mentorship program, ALSC donations and annual Jammin’ for Justice fundraiser, Chugach Heritage Foundation’s Barney Uhart Scholarship Intern program, Alaska Run for Women and more.

Chairman and Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sheri Buretta added, “Chugach is blessed to have her strength, determination and brilliance to help guide us through challenges and successes.”

YWCA Alaska will host the 32nd Annual Women of Achievement & Youth Awards during the week of November 1-5, 2021. This will be a virtual event designed to celebrate these 10 phenomenal women and 5 incredible youth. (The Young People of Achievement Awardees will be announced soon.) The 2021 Women of Achievement will join the distinguished women of influence and exceptional leadership in The Academy of Women Achievers, because of receiving this honor.

For information on all of this year’s winners, visit: https://ywcaak.org.

Chugach Alaska Corporation ranks sixth among Alaskan-owned businesses

In order to be considered for the annual Top 49er list, a company must be:

  • A for-profit or not-for-profit organization;
  • At least 51% Alaskan-owned;
  • Headquartered in Alaska; and
  • Operating in Alaska.

Alaska Business began the Top 49er list in 1984, and Chugach has made the list 31 times. While Chugach’s inaugural appearances on the list were closer to the 49th position, rapid growth and diversification in business lines has allowed Chugach to rise to the top of the list, consistently ranking in the top 10 or top five positions.

Chugach is also proud to be in good company with fellow Alaska businesses. The collective gross revenue of the 49 companies who made the list dropped by less than 1%. This is the smallest year-over-year decrease in revenue in the past decade – even during the midst of the pandemic and a struggling economy.

“This year’s list is a reminder of the resilience and fortitude embedded in the Alaska community,’” explains Chugach Chairman and Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sheri Buretta. “2020 was a challenging year for everyone, but when our collective businesses succeed, we all win. I am confident that by working together and supporting one another, the Alaska community and economy will continue to recover and eventually thrive again.”

As with many other organizations forced to re-imagine business events, this year’s event was held virtually, and included an Executive Question and Answer (Q&A) panel featuring remarks from Buretta.

During the panel, Sheri touched on the challenges and opportunities faced during COVID-19; how Chugach has supported its shareholders, employees and community; and how Chugach’s diversification has allowed us to remain resilient despite headwinds. She also left attendees with a heartfelt note for community members, emphasizing the importance of kindness, gratitude and collaboration during these divisive times.

Check out Alaska Business’ article here for the full list of winners. You can also watch the Executive Q&A here.

Chugach Commercial Holdings (CCH) Announces New General Manager for Chugach Alaska Services (CAS)

Paul MacDonald has worked in the Alaska Oil & Gas industry for over 28 years starting his career at Tatitlek, Chenega, Chugach (TCC) primarily working on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System building his experience to include leadership in conducting and executing safety, operations, maintenance and quality assurance programs for oil spill emergency response. MacDonald grew with the company, eventually accepting the role of General Manager for TCC.

In his role as the CAS General Manager, Paul will lead and foster a solutions-focused team prioritizing safety and professional excellence. Additionally, MacDonald will continue to oversee TCC.

Peter Andersen, CCH President, shared, “Paul was a natural choice for this important role. He knows the industry, he knows the people, and his standards for safety, quality and creating meaningful value for our clients is second to none. I look forward to seeing how our Chugach Alaska Services’ business will optimize performance and grow under his leadership.”

Chugach Alaska Corporation Appoints Scott Davis as President of Chugach Government Solutions

Scott Davis will be appointed to CGS President, effective Oct. 4, 2021

In his role, Davis will be responsible for leading CGS’ 11 subsidiaries and the 4,500 employees who support them. He will also be a key member of Chugach’s executive leadership team, and will work closely with Chairman of the Board and Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sheri Buretta and President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) Daniel Fenza to advance the corporation’s overarching strategic plan.

This critical position attracted both internal and external applicants across the country who offered an impressive breadth and depth of credentials and experience. The Search Committee ultimately returned to a familiar face with a proven track record at Chugach.

As with several members of Chugach’s executive leadership team, Davis cultivated his leadership experience and ethos from within the ranks of Chugach. He began his career as an engineer at one of Chugach’s first base operations support contracts, MacDill Air Force Base. During nearly 20 years with CGS, he moved up the ranks to serve in various leadership capacities, including president for several CGS subsidiaries and eventually as senior vice president of operations for CGS. Since leaving Chugach in 2019, he has gained additional experience and fostered strategic relationships during his time as managing director of government integrated facilities management for JLL.

“Beyond his extensive federal government contracting expertise, Scott is committed to Chugach’s Core Behaviors, possesses a deep appreciation of Chugach’s mission to create intergenerational prosperity for shareholders and understands the complexity of our organization,” explains Chugach President and COO Daniel Fenza. “I am confident he is the right person to build upon the successful trajectory of CGS.”

“It has been immensely rewarding to watch CGS flourish and expand across the country and beyond since I first joined the company in 1999,” said Davis. “I look forward to rejoining the Chugach family and building on the solid foundation and growth potential in the business at an important time for the company. Chugach has the most talented people in our industry, and I am excited that together we can help write the next chapter.”

Tim “Hoops” Hopper will serve as an advisor to the CGS President starting Oct. 4, 2021, before retiring at year-end.

Davis will succeed Hoops, who has served as CGS president for nearly two decades.

Buretta commented, “The Board of Directors thanks Hoops for his amazing leadership and deep care for our company and people during his time with Chugach. In the past 50 years, a number of individuals – Cecil Barnes, Mack Ferrick, Barney Uhart and Mel Lynch to name a few – have played a major hand in growing Chugach’s profitability and capacity to deliver benefits to Chugach’s shareholder community, and Hoops’ name will certainly be added to this list of individuals, each of whom have earned a place in Chugach history. We thank him for his service to our country and for his many years of service to the Chugach people and wish him and his family the best as he starts his well-earned retirement.”

ARA and ANVCA Welcome Supreme Court’s Landmark Decision Recognizing Role of Alaska Native Corporations

ANCSA Regional Association and Alaska Native Village Corporation Association applaud the Supreme Court’s decision to ensure the federal government honors its promises to Alaska Natives and the communities we represent. In doing so, the Court affirmed “what the Federal Government has maintained for almost half a century: ANCs are Indian tribes under ISDA.”

Through the creation of Alaska Native regional and village corporations, Congress established a novel approach to federal Indian policy and for nearly 50 years, these unique corporations have served the health, educational, welfare and cultural needs of more than 140,000 Alaska Native shareholders.

We are pleased to see the Court affirm Alaska Native corporations’ eligibility for CARES Act funds to help our people and communities recover from the devastating effects of COVID-19. Alaska’s economy is only now starting to recover, and these funds are needed to help our communities get back on their feet.

ARA and ANVCA would like to extend their deepest thanks to Alaska’s congressional delegation, the State of Alaska, and the Alaska Federation of Natives for their unwavering support of Alaska Native people throughout this litigation. ARA and ANVCA are committed to building greater understanding about the critical roles ANCs play in the lives of Alaska Native people, and we stand ready to unite with Indian Country to better serve all of our Indigenous communities.

For background on ANCs and the CARES Act, click here.

Chugach Invests in Future STEM Leaders

The goal of ASCTE is to create a pipeline of high school graduates capable of advanced placement in postsecondary education and, alternatively, to create a highly technical workforce that is prepared for immediate employment in industry or government. The need for this pool of cyber-proficient graduates is clearly evident:

  • The State of Alabama currently has more than 6,000 cyber-job openings.
  • Across the United States, there are more than half a million cyber-job openings.
  • Globally, there are more than 3.5 million open cyber positions.

“Through Chugach Government Solutions’ regional office and its long-standing contracts with the military, Chugach’s strong presence in Huntsville, Alabama has spanned decades, and I’m excited that the ASCTE is building its new campus in this community,” said Chugach’s President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) Daniel Fenza. “It is my hope that Chugach and ASCTE’s partnership will cement a relationship with its facility and graduates for many years to come.”

Fenza’s decision to lend Chugach support to the ASCTE is guided by two of Chugach’s Core Behaviors: We Empower People and We Build Community. “Having a partnership with a school like this is an investment in the next generation of cyber and engineering leaders, and it opens the doors for some of the brightest young minds to join Chugach in supporting our customers in the future,” said Fenza. “Placing youth on the path toward cyber competency empowers them to be the candidates for employment we are seeking today, and as well as the skills necessary for tomorrow as we move forward into the ever-evolving digital landscape.”

“We welcome Chugach as an ASCTE Partner in Education,” commented ASCTE President, Matt Massey. “Our partnership with Chugach will help ASCTE provide the education and experiences necessary to prepare today’s students to meet future workforce needs in cyber and engineering.”

To learn more about the ASCTE and its incredible mission to position its students to better tackle the challenges of tomorrow, visit www.ascte.org.