AGC 2024 Annual Conference Agenda
AGC's Conference Committees have coordinated a stellar program and line-up of speakers for this year's program. This is a final schedule, with more information about the sessions being added daily.
Wednesday, November 6th
Conference Events Throughout the Day
Join representatives from the Alaska Department of Transportation to hear about program overviews and upcoming projects.
Speakers: DOT Commissioner Ryan Anderson, Deputy Commissioner Katherine Keith, Rashaud Joseph, Christine Langley, Shannon McCarthy, Chrisopher Goins, Sean Holland, Lauren Little
USACE Provides program overviews, upcoming projects, lessons learned.
Speakers: Jim Jeffords, Ryan Zachary, Erin Urvina, Randy Bowker, James Sauceda, Tracy Wickham
Join us at the AGC Annual Vendor Trade Show, happening November 6-7, where the industry comes together for an incredible showcase of resources, tools, and innovations! The trade show kicks off on Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. during the President's Welcome and continues all day Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., alongside the conference. With 32 booths staffed by AGC members, attendees can connect with experts in equipment rentals, representatives from the University of Alaska, branding materials providers, and a variety of specialized industry services. Don't miss this chance to discover new solutions, build valuable connections, and power up your business for success!
2024 Participating Vendors are:
1st Source Bank
AGC Health Trust (JD Fulwiler & Co. Insurance)
Alaska Business Magazine
Alaska Demolition, LLC
Alaska DOT & PF
Alaska Housing Finance Corporation
Alaska Industrial Hardware, Inc. (AIH)
Alaska Remote Imaging
All Pro Alaska
Anchorage Sand & Gravel
Building Trades
Combs Insurance Agency, Inc.
Denali Industrial Supply, Inc
Equipment Source, Inc.
Frontier Precision Inc.
GPS Alaska, Inc.
Horizon Trek, LLC
ISCO
JD Steel Co., Inc.
King's Custom Design
Lennon Crane
Michels
Minn-Alaska
North Star Equipment Services
Nu Flow Alaska LLC
R-Seal
Samson Tug & Barge
State of Alaska; Commerce, Community, and Economic Development; Division of Insurance.
Stinebaugh & Company
Surveyors Exchange Co. Inc.
Temporary Wall Systems Anchorage
UAA Community & Technical College
Kick off the 2024 conference in style at the MarshMcLennan President's Welcome on November 6 from 5-7 p.m. in the Discovery Ballroom! Join us for an evening of appetizers, cocktails, and the lively atmosphere of our 32-booth vendor trade show. This reception is the perfect way to connect with colleagues, discover new industry innovations, and dive into the conference experience. Don’t miss this exciting start to what promises to be a dynamic and memorable event!
Thursday, November 7
Conference Events Throughout the Day
During this session, you will be introduced to the Playbook for Contractors to Connect with Schools. You will learn how to best use and implement strategies discussed within the Playbook. We will also discuss best practices and success stories in utilizing this resource. We will conclude with a Q&A to ensure all attendees are prepared to leave the session with the tools needed to successfully implement the playbook within their company.
Join us at the AGC Annual Vendor Trade Show, happening November 6-7, where the industry comes together for an incredible showcase of resources, tools, and innovations! The trade show kicks off on Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. during the President's Welcome and continues all day Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., alongside the conference. With 32 booths staffed by AGC members, attendees can connect with experts in equipment rentals, representatives from the University of Alaska, branding materials providers, and a variety of specialized industry services. Don't miss this chance to discover new solutions, build valuable connections, and power up your business for success!
2024 Participating Vendors are:
1st Source Bank
AGC Health Trust (JD Fulwiler & Co. Insurance)
Alaska Business Magazine
Alaska Demolition, LLC
Alaska DOT & PF
Alaska Housing Finance Corporation
Alaska Industrial Hardware, Inc. (AIH)
Alaska Remote Imaging
All Pro Alaska
Anchorage Sand & Gravel
Building Trades
Combs Insurance Agency, Inc.
Denali Industrial Supply, Inc
Equipment Source, Inc.
Frontier Precision Inc.
GPS Alaska, Inc.
Horizon Trek, LLC
ISCO
JD Steel Co., Inc.
King's Custom Design
Lennon Crane
Michels
Minn-Alaska
North Star Equipment Services
Nu Flow Alaska LLC
R-Seal
Samson Tug & Barge
State of Alaska; Commerce, Community, and Economic Development; Division of Insurance.
Stinebaugh & Company
Surveyors Exchange Co. Inc.
Temporary Wall Systems Anchorage
UAA Community & Technical College
Celebrate the pinnacle of safety in Alaska’s construction industry at the ConocoPhillips Alaska Excellence in Safety Awards. This prestigious event honors companies that go above and beyond to ensure safety excellence, evaluated by an independent panel of safety professionals. Award criteria focus on outstanding leadership commitment, comprehensive worker training, active company-wide participation, and innovative safety solutions.
This year, we are also honored to welcome Senator Lisa Murkowski, who will give remarks at the beginning of the luncheon.
Join us to recognize these champions of safety and be inspired by their dedication to protecting Alaska’s workforce.
Join 
us for the CLC Reception in the Quarter Deck from 5-7 p.m., where networking meets fun with raffles, the famous wine ring toss, and more! Hosted by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) of Alaska, this event is designed to connect and celebrate Alaska's rising construction leaders. Open to both AGC members and non-members, the CLC fosters personal and professional growth through strong, career-sustaining relationships. Whether you’re 2 or 18 years into the industry, CLC offers programs, courses, and community projects that build skills and leadership—empowering you to contribute to Alaska’s thriving communities. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your network and strengthen the foundation of Alaska’s construction future!
Endeavor Room
Description
Join us for a comprehensive presentation by Davis Wright Tremaine LLP on the latest developments in construction and federal contracting law, featuring critical updates on topics that matter to industry professionals. This session will cover bid protests, supply chain challenges, and force majeure issues, equipping attendees with strategies to navigate these complex obstacles. The presentation will also delve into the latest on CMMC (cybersecurity requirements for contractors), Project Labor Agreements, and the recent Davis Bacon Act updates. With these insights, you’ll be well-prepared to address the evolving regulatory landscape and strengthen your position in federal contracting. Don’t miss this valuable opportunity to stay informed and proactive in today’s dynamic legal environment!
Presenters
Anne Marie Tavella
Jonathan DeMella
Mike O'Brien
Have you been feeling down, stressed, overwhelmed or just “over it?”
For starters, you aren’t alone. This is a trying time for all of humanity. And we want to help you with that! Join us for Address the Stress: Mental Health for You and Your Teams brought to you by the AGC of Alaska Safety Committee in partnership with AGC of Washington. AGC-WA Safety Director Mandi Kime will fill the session with helpful tools and information, mixed with empathy for your unique situation. Attendees will have access to a large suite of free resources to help implement best practices in your sphere of influence.
Presenter
Mandi Kime, AGC Washington Safety Services Director
Description
Presenters from Smith Curries Oles LLP will present a very brief history of the Miller Act and the subsequent proliferation of state Little Miller Acts, with a focus on Alaska. They will discuss the purpose of the statutes and why they apply only to government construction projects. They will describe the basic mechanics of the laws - bond requirements, timing of claims, notice - for both bond principals and potential claimants. Several hypothetical scenarios will help illustrate how the acts function in practice and allow discussion of some of the more common challenges facing contractors and subcontractors in Miller Act/Little Miller Act actions. They will also discuss the importance of following subcontract dispute resolution procedures in conjunction with filing a Miller Act/Little Miller Act suit.
Top Three Takeaways
1. Functional understanding of the federal Miller Act and Alaska's Little Miller Act.
2. How to pursue a Miller Act/Little Miller Act claim.
3. How to defend against a Miller Act/Little Miller Act claim
Presenters
Thomas Krider, Partner
Douglas Oles, Partner
Jacob Scott, Partner
Description
Join Rachael Ridge, Randee Johnson and Christina Lien of R-Squared Contracting and SafeLogic Alaska as they co-present their combined knowledge on the utilization of the most up to date technology in the construction industry. From AI notetaking, to Weather Stations, we will break it down quickly and efficiently (because that is how we roll) and provide you with an overall idea of what you are missing out on!
Presenters
Rachael Ridge,
Randee Johnson
Christina Lien
Description
The Alcan LPOE is the only year-round, full service, 24-hour port of entry serving personal vehicles and commercial truck traffic between Yukon Territory, Canada and interior Alaska. It’s situated in a remote location along the Alaska Highway; a majority of the adjacent area is undeveloped forest, wetlands and tundra. Established in 1972, the facility is now over 50 years old and in urgent need of replacement. The project includes replacing the existing port operational facilities, housing and community complexes with modern facilities that will meet U.S. Customs and Border Protection and GSA operational needs for decades to come.
Here is our public web site for the project as well: https://www.gsa.gov/about-us/gsa-regions/region-10-northwestarctic/buildings-and-facilities/alaska/alcan-land-port-of-entry?gsaredirect=alcan
Presenter
Rick Rachow
Join us for the CLC Reception in the Quarter Deck from 5-7 p.m., where networking meets fun with raffles, the famous wine ring toss, and more! Hosted by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) of Alaska, this event is designed to connect and celebrate Alaska's rising construction leaders. Open to both AGC members and non-members, the CLC fosters personal and professional growth through strong, career-sustaining relationships. Whether you’re 2 or 18 years into the industry, CLC offers programs, courses, and community projects that build skills and leadership—empowering you to contribute to Alaska’s thriving communities. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your network and strengthen the foundation of Alaska’s construction future!
Adventure Room
Description
A panel made up of past Construction Leadership Council chairs will discuss the mission of the CLC and share their insights on the CLC's value is to AGC's members and to the future of our industry.
About the CLC:
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) of Alaska was formed to cultivate the future leaders of Alaska's construction industry. This group is open to all employees of AGC members and non-members who are looking to further their personal and professional growth, while creating the types of connections that will sustain them throughout their careers. Through the development of strong professional relationships, the group will expand and enhance the growth and development of Alaskan communities, carrying forward the tradition of excellence. The purpose of the Construction Leadership Council is to provide networking and professional development opportunities for those who have been working in Alaska’s construction industry for 2 to 18 years.
CLC members learn from programs, courses, and community projects that are all designed to improve job-related capabilities and leadership ability.
Presenters
Saigen Harris, F&W Construction Company
Sean Hickel, Roger Hickel Contracting, Inc.
Dax Lauwers, MarshMcLennan Agency
Kiersten Russell, Northrim Bank
Heather Sottosanti, Big State Mechanical
Description
Executive succession is one of the most critical challenges faced by organizations today, yet many transitions fail, leading to instability, lost talent, and missed opportunities. In fact, studies show that one-third of Fortune 200 companies have experienced failed successions, and the rate is even higher—two-thirds—among small and medium-sized businesses. This workshop goes beyond the basics of leadership handover, delving into the often-overlooked elements that can make or break a transition.
Session Takeaways
1. Preparation Is Different Than What You Think: Why most successions fail and the seven steps you need to take so yours won't.
2. Teams Make or Break Succession: How to build a bench that will support your succession.
3. Emergencies Are Your Friend: Discover why preparing for the unexpected is not just a contingency plan, but the best strategy for ensuring long-term success and stability.
Presenter
Christian Muntean
Description
Stay ahead of the curve with the latest insights on the new Build America Buy America (BABA) Guidelines in an essential presentation by the Alaska DOT. This session will provide an in-depth overview of the updated BABA requirements, designed to prioritize American-made materials and strengthen domestic supply chains in federally funded infrastructure projects. Learn directly from Alaska DOT experts about compliance strategies, impacts on procurement processes, and the opportunities these guidelines bring to local contractors and suppliers. Don’t miss this chance to understand the BABA Guidelines and how they will shape the future of Alaska’s infrastructure projects!
Description
Discover how Alaska ranks second in the nation for young worker fatalities and learn how employers can make a difference. This session equips you with the latest trends in young worker injuries and fatalities, free resources to enhance your current operations and local contacts and resources to support your safety programming.
Top Three Session Takeaways
1. Understand the latest trends in injuries and fatalities for workers under age 25.
2. Free resources for employers that want to enhance their safety programs to prevent young worker fatalities and injuries.
3. Coaching on the practical application of safety resources presented.
Presenter
Naomi DuCharme, Alaska Safety Alliance
Mitch Wallace, AKOSH
Juie Tredway, USDOL W&H
Tucker Owen, USDOL W&H
Join us for the CLC Reception in the Quarter Deck from 5-7 p.m., where networking meets fun with raffles, the famous wine ring toss, and more! Hosted by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) of Alaska, this event is designed to connect and celebrate Alaska's rising construction leaders. Open to both AGC members and non-members, the CLC fosters personal and professional growth through strong, career-sustaining relationships. Whether you’re 2 or 18 years into the industry, CLC offers programs, courses, and community projects that build skills and leadership—empowering you to contribute to Alaska’s thriving communities. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your network and strengthen the foundation of Alaska’s construction future!
Quadrant Room
Session Description
3D scanning, drone mapping, and interactive virtual models are changing the way the world works together. As the versatility of digital assets keeps rising, every role in the AEC ecosystem can use them to make difficult jobs easier. Join ARI to learn about how various Alaskan organizations are currently harnessing these tools.
Top Three Takeaways from This Session
1. Digital Twins Enhance Bidding and Planning
2. Digital Twins Reduce Error and Conflicts
3. Digital Twins Transform Communication
Presenter
Matt Gutacker, Managing Principal, Alaska Remote Imaging
Description
Midnight Sun Environmental (MSE) will highlight the unique abilities of using drones for streamlining Alaska projects in our challenging remote location. By obtaining updated aerial imagery, projects that utilize drones have better baseline data, can have reduced costs by improving construction strategies, and minimize risks and improve safety for workers.
Top Three Takeaways
By using a drone or unmanned aircraft systems in Alaska it can lead to
1. Enhanced Data Collection and Analysis
2. Efficiency and Cost Effectiveness
3. Safety and Accessibility Improvements
Presenters
Kelly Kennedy, Midnight Sun Environmental
Krista Scott, Midnight Sun Environmental
Description
Do you know which federal agencies are buying those goods or services that your business is selling? Do you know how to find out? Do you know where to look for this information? The information is posted for public review -you just need to know which
database to look at and how the information is coded. Honestly, it's easier than it sounds!
Top Three Takeaways
1. Learn how to build good search criteria
2. Learn how to apply the search criteria to federal databases
3. Complete successfully target market research for upcoming solicitations and past contract activity
Presenter
Jody King, Alaska APEX Accelerator
Description
This session will help you dramatically enhance your company's value. You'll be introduced to actionable strategies tailored to the unique dynamics faced by the construction industry. Learn how to build a high-value company, avoid common deal killers, and implement crucial steps that many owners regret not taking.
Session Takeaways
1. The 8 key ingredients of a high-value company.
2. How to avoid value killers. (Especially the top two.)
3. What 72% of owners wish they had done.
Presenter
Christian Muntean
Description
Enhance your project management skills with Project Controls & Documentation, an essential presentation hosted by the AGC Legal Affairs Committee and led by industry expert Anne Marie Tavella. This session will delve into best practices for effective project controls and meticulous documentation, vital for keeping projects on track and safeguarding against potential disputes. Learn strategies for streamlining documentation processes, managing project data, and ensuring compliance—all critical to successful project outcomes. Join us to gain valuable insights and practical tools for stronger project control and seamless documentation!
Presenter
Anne Marie Tavella, Davis Wright Tremaine
Join us for the CLC Reception in the Quarter Deck from 5-7 p.m., where networking meets fun with raffles, the famous wine ring toss, and more! Hosted by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) of Alaska, this event is designed to connect and celebrate Alaska's rising construction leaders. Open to both AGC members and non-members, the CLC fosters personal and professional growth through strong, career-sustaining relationships. Whether you’re 2 or 18 years into the industry, CLC offers programs, courses, and community projects that build skills and leadership—empowering you to contribute to Alaska’s thriving communities. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your network and strengthen the foundation of Alaska’s construction future!
Friday, November 8th
Conference Events Throughout the Day
Description
Join us for a valuable breakfast presentation by ENSTAR Natural Gas, where industry experts will provide a timely update on the future possibilities for natural gas in Cook Inlet. Discover the latest insights on resource potential, sustainability efforts, and innovative solutions designed to meet Alaska's energy needs. This engaging presentation will explore ENSTAR's plans for supporting reliable, affordable energy and answer key questions about the evolving role of natural gas in our local economy. Following the presentation, there will be dedicated time for Q&A, offering attendees the chance to connect directly with industry leaders. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy breakfast and be part of Alaska's energy conversation!
Description
The United States of America changed dramatically during the pandemic. Our values even changed. Specifically, what we, as Americans, value the most has changed. Pre-pandemic, family was our #1 value; worldwide, family is the #1 value. However, post-pandemic, our #1 value is no longer family. Family is now #2. So, what replaced family as the #1 value for Americans? #1 is now belonging.
Belonging is defined as a feeling of being happy or comfortable as part of a particular group and having a good relationship with the other members of the group because they welcome you and accept you. That sounds a lot like being a part of a team, doesn’t it? Why not your team? Americans now crave belonging, and the workplace is the perfect place to create it! When belonging thrives in the workplace, psychological safety naturally follows.
At the conclusion of this presentation, the participant should be able to:
- Define what a true sense of belonging means in a team environment.
- Recognize the (3) key roadblocks that must be removed to clear the path to psychological safety.
- Understand the (6) essential milestones along the path to achieving psychological safety.
- Evaluate where an individual on their team is on the journey to psychological safety.
- Deploy the (4) cornerstones of psychological safety that belonging is built upon.
About Dr. Charlie Cartwright
Dr. Charlie is known as the “The Company Culture Doctor” & creator of the “People Success Formula.” It results from a three-decade-long meta-analysis of what drives employee behavior. His research clearly illuminated the path to unlocking human potential.
Before devoting his work full-time to company culture, workplace safety & leadership consulting, Dr. Charlie spent over 20 years of his career in leadership within Fortune 500 companies. The practical lessons, insights & operational excellence he gained during this time are priceless. His wisdom helps business leaders achieve great results by tapping into the inherent greatness of their people.
Celebrate the best in construction at the Parker, Smith & Feek Excellence in Construction Awards Luncheon! This prestigious event honors contractors who have delivered exceptional projects, showcasing their dedication to quality, innovation, and the highest standards in the
industry. This luncheon is a must-attend for those who are passionate about advancing the standards of our industry. Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate Alaska’s finest projects and connect with industry leaders!
Description
Join us for the 2024 AGC of Alaska Board of Directors Meeting on November 8th from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Discovery Ballroom Aft Deck. This important gathering will bring together industry leaders to discuss the future direction of AGC and the Alaska construction industry. Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear remarks from Senator Dan Sullivan, who will share his perspective on key issues impacting Alaska. Don’t miss this chance to engage with AGC leadership, contribute to the vision of our industry, and connect with peers committed to building Alaska's future!
Description
Join us for a memorable evening at the 60th Anniversary Hard Hat Dinner on Friday, November 8th, at 5:30 p.m. in the Quarter Deck at the Hotel Captain Cook. This exclusive, invitation-only event will honor the extraordinary contributions that have shaped Alaska’s past, present, and future. The evening will feature a special presentation by Mike Travis, author of The Landmen, who will recount the incredible story of the challenges and triumphs behind securing the land to build the iconic Alaska pipeline. Don’t miss this celebration of Alaska’s resilient spirit and the remarkable achievements of those who built its foundation.
Saturday, November 9th
Description
Don’t miss an exclusive presentation by Joe Balash of Santos on the Current and Future Opportunities in Alaska! This insightful session will explore the latest developments and upcoming projects in Alaska's energy and construction sectors. Joe Balash, with his extensive experience and in-depth understanding of Alaska’s unique landscape, will provide valuable perspectives on emerging opportunities, market trends, and the future of energy in the region. Join us to gain actionable insights, connect with industry peers, and learn how your business can be a part of Alaska’s next phase of growth!
Description
Be a part of shaping AGC’s future at the 2024 AGC of Alaska Board of Directors Elections! Join us from 10:10 to 11:45 a.m. in the Endeavor Room, where each contractor member company can cast a vote for representatives who will drive our industry forward. Each contractor member company is entitled to one voting representative who may participate in the contractor elections. Click here to learn about candidates in Highway-Utility, Heavy Industrial, Building, and Specialty categories. Don’t miss this chance to participate in an important decision-making process and support the leaders who will represent your interests at AGC!