NANA
New spaces , shared goals : Regional office update
Our board of directors established an important goal to bring new office buildings to each community in the region , and we are excited to share progress on our ongoing commitment to strengthening our communities through the development of these spaces . These buildings are designed not only to serve as operational offices but also as safe , welcoming hubs for community gatherings , events , and training opportunities .
“ This year , we opened a new office in Shungnak , marking a significant milestone ,” said Director of Capital Projects and Regional Facility Operations Mickey Jorgensen , “ These modular buildings were built by NANA Construction , a subsidiary of NANA . The design and construction reflect the dedication and expertise within our organization and our shareholders .” Mickey is a NANA shareholder from Kotzebue . Part of his job duties include overseeing the shipping of each modular building from the NANA Construction facility in Big Lake to its final location in each of our regional communities . He also tracks and monitors the installation of the offices as well as final tasks like artwork installations , phone setups , IT visits , and the clean-up and closure of any space NANA was previously using in the community .
NANA ’ s Noorvik office is set to open any day now . Looking ahead , offices in Ambler and Kobuk are close to completion , with final tasks underway .
The Kiana lot is prepped and ready for building delivery , aiming for a fall 2025 opening . Noatak ’ s site has been selected , but we are still working through logistical details for scheduling . Current plans target a 2025 opening , but it may extend into 2026 . Additionally , we are visiting Buckland soon to finalize a lot lease with the City of Buckland , where we anticipate opening an office in fall 2025 .
“ These new spaces , built in partnership with NANA Construction , represent our commitment to fostering connections and providing opportunities within our communities , so when you finally do a grand opening for one of the buildings the sense of accomplishment definitely outweighs the challenges ” added Mickey , “ Thank you to our shareholders , community members , and shareholder relations coordinators for your continued support as we work toward achieving this shared vision .”
Mickey Jorgensen , a NANA shareholder from Kotzebue , is NANA ' s director of capital projects and regional facility operations .
In Shungnak , the community has been enjoying their new NANA office that opened this summer .
Empowering futures with NANA North and the academies of Anchorage
NANA North participated in Anchorage School District ' s first Academies of Anchorage career expo . Academies of Anchorage aims to help prepare high school students for success in their future careers . During the inaugural career expo , NANA North joined professionals from more than 75 organizations . Our team highlighted the wide range of job opportunities available within our Alaska-based businesses . We had the chance to engage with over 3,000 freshmen , showcasing career paths , connecting with students , and highlighting the critical role they play in Alaska ’ s industries .
For NANA North , this event was more than just career promotion – it was a chance to invest in the next generation and address workforce development challenges critical to our businesses and communities . Workforce development remains a shared challenge across our businesses , and initiatives like the Academies of Anchorage are essential to ensuring students are prepared to step into those roles with the skills and confidence they need .
By participating in programs like this , NANA North is proud to invest in the future of our NANA shareholders , our businesses , and our communities . These efforts reflect our commitment to creating opportunities grounded in Iñupiat values and building a stronger Alaska together .
See highlights from the Freshman Academy Career Expo on the Anchorage School District ’ s Facebook page .
Kuna architectural group earns AIA recognition
Kuna Engineering , a NANA North subsidiary and full-service engineering , architecture , surveying , and environmental sciences firm , continues to set the standard for innovative and community-focused design across Alaska . Operating out of Anchorage , Fairbanks , and Utqiaġvik , our approximately 60-member team provides customized solutions tailored to each region ' s unique challenges .
We are proud to announce that the Kuna Architectural Group , led by William Guevremont , AIA , NCARB , has received the " Lowest Energy Bill in February " citation from the American Institute of Architects ( AIA ), Alaska . The award recognizes Kuna ’ s innovative design for Kotzebue ’ s new multipurpose building , celebrating its energy efficiency and thoughtful design .
For projects across the state , Kuna ’ s designs address environmental considerations , construction costs , limited building seasons , and the aesthetics of both urban and rural communities . Every project is approached with a commitment to sustainability and a deep respect for the communities and environments served .
Out of nine impressive entries , only four were recognized by the AIA Alaska chapter , and we are honored to be among them . This recognition underscores Kuna ’ s dedication to creating energyefficient , resilient buildings that reflect the values of the communities we serve .
As the largest design organization in the world , the AIA is at the forefront of promoting zerocarbon , equitable , and sustainable practices in architecture . Kuna is proud to contribute to this mission with designs that are as functional as they are forward-thinking .
Congratulations to William Guevremont and the Kuna team for this well-deserved recognition !
Rendering of Kotzebue ' s new multipurpose building design .
Senior Architect and Facilities Director William Guevremont ( center ) is joined by NVOK ARPA Manager Paulette Schuerch ( right ), and NVOK Council President Toni Rae Bergan ( left ).
4 The Hunter | 2025 Winter