04/10/2025
"My journey in Alaska began in the third grade when I moved to Aniak, a small village on the Kuskokwim River. Being immersed in village life and surrounded by Alaska Native communities really shaped my perspective. It instilled a deep connection to rural Alaska, a connection that has become a driving force in my career.
Aniak is more to me than just the place where I grew up. My experiences and the connections I built there have informed my work at GCI, especially when I visit towns in rural Alaska. The love I have for these communities? It comes straight from those days.
I remember the incredible warmth of village life, where a simple connection could open doors. You'd just say, 'Oh, I grew up here,' and instantly, it was, 'Oh, do you know so-and-so?' Suddenly, you're being invited over: 'Come to our house, we’re having king crab!’ It's that immediate sense of community, that willingness to share and connect, that really stuck with me and drives my work now.
My life shifted when my wife and I started a family. And honestly, the desire to grow our family was a major factor in my decision to join GCI. GCI has been phenomenal. They're incredibly understanding. I don’t think I would’ve been able to become a dad at this point in my life had it not been for my team and role at GCI. The flexibility of remote work has allowed me to be present for my growing family, a benefit I deeply appreciate.
Austin is a Communications Specialist and has been with GCI for almost two years. By day, Austin's a key player in closing the digital divide across Alaska. But beyond being a trailblazer in connectivity, he's got a knack for sports (you may recognize him as the former sports reporter for Alaska’s News Source). From golf to basketball to hockey — you name it, he’s watching it! When he’s not at work, you might find him on the golf course or dreaming of a pre-knee-injury basketball comeback. ⛳ 🏀