Building the Future, One Breadcrumb at a Time

t’s a privilege to step into the role of president for Associated General Contractors, or AGC, of Alaska. My connections with past AGC presidents and members have profoundly shaped my journey, both professionally and personally. Every AGC member is not just a colleague or competitor but part of a family bonded by shared goals, a love for the construction industry, and a commitment to Alaska’s future. While we might compete during the workday, we’re a united community beyond those hours, building something bigger together.

Growing up in a construction family and within the AGC Alaska community might suggest I was destined for a career in this industry, but that wasn’t the case. My journey wasn’t pre-planned—it unfolded because of consequential people and experiences. Each moment, each “breadcrumb,” was an opportunity, a lesson, or an inspiration that directed me along this path. I am grateful for every one of them.

My first breadcrumb came from my parents. I was fortunate enough to attend AGC national events during Robby Capps’ presidency in 2006. That exposure to the AGC on a national scale opened my eyes to the industry’s depth and to the relationships that define it. It connected me with people I continue to value today, inspiring me to see the possibilities in construction. The second breadcrumb came when a family friend from AGC helped me secure a spot in the Construction Management program at the University of Northern Iowa. UAA didn’t have a program at the time, so this opportunity allowed me to explore construction education out of state.

Soon, I returned to Alaska to be closer to family and take advantage of UAA’s new Construction Management program. Terry Fike of Alcan General provided the third breadcrumb on this journey, giving me a job on the Anchorage Museum Expansion project. Working in a chilly job trailer, I saw firsthand what a construction career really entails. It was a tough environment, but I loved it—it was my first real taste of the hard work and camaraderie that define our field.

Of course, like any twenty-year-old, I wasn’t certain where my career was headed. After a few detours, I graduated with a degree in International Studies, dreaming of traveling. But life brought me back to construction. While looking into UAA’s Project Management program, I saw a job posting from STG, Inc., an AGC member company, and, with Robby’s encouragement, applied. In no time, I was on board at STG, an opportunity that would transform my career in unexpected ways.

At STG, my fourth breadcrumb was offered by Jim St. George and his team. They encouraged me to explore every corner of the industry, taking me to some of Alaska’s most remote and unique places. This experience deepened my appreciation for construction’s impact, both on a local and personal level. It was here that I found inspiration for my passion project: the Construction Leadership Council, or CLC. AGC can be an intimidating organization to newcomers, so I wanted to create an environment where younger professionals could easily find their footing, connect with mentors, and develop professionally. Together with a great team, we built the CLC as a bridge for those new to AGC to connect with established leaders and each other, fostering community and growth.

My fifth breadcrumb came when I returned to work with my family business, F&W Construction, under Robby’s guidance. This role allowed me to expand my involvement with AGC, joining various committees and, ultimately, the Executive Board. The support I’ve received has been pivotal, not just from my family but from friends and mentors across AGC of Alaska. Now, as incoming president, I see my role as a chance to give back and to help lay breadcrumbs for the next generation of construction professionals. AGC thrives when we actively invest in new talent.

The AGC Workforce Development Committee has created a tremendous opportunity for us to get into the classroom and talk to high schoolers about why this industry is a great career choice, what it has done for our families, and why we love it, giving breadcrumbs to the next generation: visit classrooms, give an opportunity to someone who might be less experienced but more passionate, review a resume and forward it on, make a phone call to an old buddy and make a recommendation.

To everyone who has supported me so far, thank you. This year, as AGC Alaska’s president, I am excited to serve and to work with you to create a stronger, connected construction community in Alaska. Together, let’s continue building, inspiring, and growing this industry we love.