Alaska Power & Telephone Company (AP&T) has been honored with the prestigious “Business of the Year” award by Southeast Conference, the economic development district for southeast Alaska. This recognition comes after a decade of significant clean energy and broadband initiatives undertaken by AP&T across numerous communities in the region.
Southeast Conference, established before Alaska achieved statehood in 1958, initially focused on developing the Alaska Marine Highway System. Since then, it has expanded to include over 185 member organizations and individuals, representing municipalities, chambers of commerce, federally-recognized tribes, major employers, government agencies, and other stakeholders in southeast Alaska.
The award acknowledges AP&T’s “extraordinary leadership and investment in innovative projects” throughout southeast Alaska. Bill Marks, CEO of AP&T, expressed gratitude for the honor, stating that it is one of the highest accolades an Alaska-based business can receive. He emphasized that the company’s success stems from collaboration with various partners, including tribes, Alaska native corporations, municipalities, nonprofits, government agencies, elected officials, subcontractors, and AP&T employees.
Southeast Conference plays a vital role in fostering economic growth across various sectors, including transportation, energy, marine industry, seafood, and tourism. Recently, the organization secured a $38.6 million grant from the US Environmental Protection Agency to install heat pumps in several southeast Alaska communities, including some served by AP&T.
AP&T, traded under the ticker APTL, is an employee- and investor-owned utility company. It provides a range of services, including broadband, communications, and energy, to over 40 rural Alaskan communities. The company’s ethos is reflected in its slogan: “Employee-Owned, Community-Minded.”
This award highlights AP&T’s commitment to innovation and community development in southeast Alaska. By investing in clean energy and broadband initiatives, the company has demonstrated its dedication to improving infrastructure and services in the region. Such efforts are crucial for the economic growth and sustainability of rural Alaskan communities, which often face unique challenges due to their remote locations and harsh environmental conditions.
The recognition from Southeast Conference underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in driving regional development. AP&T’s success in implementing innovative projects across multiple
communities showcases the potential for businesses to make significant positive impacts when working in partnership with local stakeholders, government entities, and other organizations.
As southeast Alaska continues to evolve and face new challenges, companies like AP&T play a crucial role in shaping the region’s future. By focusing on clean energy and improved connectivity, AP&T is not only addressing current needs but also laying the groundwork for future economic opportunities and improved quality of life for residents.
The “Business of the Year” award serves as a testament to AP&T’s ongoing commitment to the communities it serves. It also highlights the company’s ability to adapt and innovate in a rapidly changing technological and environmental landscape. As Alaska faces unique challenges related to climate change and economic diversification, businesses that can successfully implement sustainable and
forward-thinking solutions become increasingly valuable.
Looking ahead, AP&T’s recognition may inspire other businesses in the region to pursue similar innovative approaches to community
development and sustainability. The company’s success story
demonstrates that it is possible to balance business objectives with community needs and environmental considerations, even in challenging rural settings.
As southeast Alaska continues to develop and adapt to changing economic and environmental conditions, the role of companies like AP&T in driving positive change and fostering community resilience will remain crucial. This award not only celebrates past achievements but also sets expectations for continued leadership and innovation in the years to come.