ith the turning of the new year, AGC member company Drake Construction began a new chapter. NANA Regional Corporation Inc. announced on January 6 that it had acquired the Kotzebue-based general contracting firm, which has spent more than forty years delivering complex infrastructure projects in some of Alaska’s most remote and challenging environments.
Photo provided by NANA North
“Welcoming the Drake Construction team and capabilities into the NANA family significantly enhances our ability to serve our clients and the region,” says John Lincoln, president and CEO of NANA. “Their proven track record and deep local knowledge align with our mission to drive sustainable economic growth and improve the quality of life for our shareholders and strengthen our communities. This acquisition is a powerful step forward in building long-term value for our shareholders.”
“Joining NANA opens the door to new opportunities for our team and the communities we serve,” adds Toby Drake, president, Drake Construction. “With NANA’s resources and shared values, we’re better positioned than ever to take on complex projects that matter. We’re proud to continue our legacy of building in the region with even greater impact.”
n recognition of its consistent efforts demonstrating community involvement and exemplifying leadership, AGC Member company STG, Inc. in September was awarded the Alaska Chamber’s Rita Sholton Large Business of the Year award.
Photo provided by STG, Inc.
Describing STG, Inc., Alaska Chamber staff noted that STG Inc. is a leader in rural infrastructure development, building projects in some of the most remote and weather-challenged regions of Alaska. Its work includes major contributions to telecommunications, fiber installation, and structural foundations, such as its foundational role in GCI’s TERRA network connecting Western Alaska.
Chamber staff added that STG, Inc. is known for its deep cultural awareness and commitment to local communities. Company leaders prioritize local hiring and mentoring, often transforming trainees into long-term team members. Beyond project sites, STG, Inc. invests in communities by donating goods, supporting elders, and engaging in local volunteer efforts. The company also supports statewide organizations, including the Scotty Gomez Foundation and Calista Education and Culture Fund. Internally, STG, Inc. fosters employee well-being with competitive benefits and a culture rooted in collaboration and generosity.
unning a commercial plumbing and heating company can be a tough job in Alaska, particularly in winter. Try juggling that with the rigorous training schedule required to be a top competitor in the world’s toughest snowmachine race.
Tracy Try photo
Sottosanti says the 2026 Iron Dog proved to be one of the most punishing races in the event’s history. Competitors faced subzero temperatures and widespread open water on the 2300-mile course. Team 10 Olds/Sottosanti encountered multiple mechanical and trail challenges but, through relentless determination, smart strategy, and sheer grit, they overcame every obstacle, beating out many of the world’s top snowmachine racers for a podium finish. Team 5, made up of Zach Weisz and Thomas Davis, placed second, and in first place was Team 7, Tyler Aklestad and Nick Olstad.
n February, AGC member company Stratus Services announced it had achieved Level 2 certification under the US Department of War’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). This certification strengthens Stratus’ commitment to their clients seeking federal contracts while maintaining similar compliance requirements in house––effectively leading by example.
Photo provided by Stratus Services
Stratus is no stranger to these rigorous standards, having helped two Alaska firms—both of them AGC member companies—reach CMMC L2 certification. In the fall, CRW Engineering Group became one of the first eighty-five firms nationally to become CMMC L2 certified with Stratus’ guidance. In December, Stratus also assisted R&M Consultants to successfully complete its CMMC L2 certification. This bodes well for the slate of firms in Stratus’ portfolio on the path to completing both L1 and L2 requirements this year.
“It’s kind of like the dog chasing the car,” says Joel Recane, managing director of Cybersecurity & CMMC. “You spend so much time preparing, building, and pushing toward the goal that you almost forget what it feels like to reach it. Achieving CMMC Level 2 in-house is incredibly validating. It proves that the systems, processes, and controls we’ve been helping our clients implement are the same ones we trust to run our own business every day.”
ssociated General Contractors (AGC) of Alaska member company R&M Consultants expanded its Alaska footprint from three to four offices with its new Wasilla office at 2002 East Bogard Road, Suite B.
Photo provided by R&M Consultants
“R&M has always been about investing in people and the relationships that knit Alaska’s communities together,” says Lend Story, R&M’s CEO. “As someone who has lived and worked across this state for many years, I’ve seen firsthand how strong local partnerships make projects better. Expanding our presence in the Mat-Su—and strengthening our commitment to every Alaska community we serve—helps us stay closely connected to our clients, while also attracting and supporting local professionals who live and work right here in the Valley. That local expertise is invaluable, and it’s what allows us to deliver practical, lasting solutions rooted in Alaska’s unique conditions.”
The new office is fully operational and staffed, providing a local base for project teams working throughout the Mat-Su and surrounding communities. Jason Johnston, PE, serves as the primary point-of-contact for the Wasilla office. He is a civil engineer with experience supporting transportation, site development, and infrastructure projects across Alaska. He works closely with R&M’s multi-discipline teams to coordinate local efforts and respond to client needs.