Beyond the Books: Real-World Insights from Alaska Native Corporations
Amber Bratlie, BBA Student
Feb. 21, 2025
Accounting students from left Sammy Bass, Sidney Epperheimer, and Roxy Lane mingle during social hour.
Great Alaskan Accounting People (GAAP) hosted the 12th annual Alaska Native Corporations Seminar, drawing a diverse crowd of in-person and virtual attendees; including professors and students from a variety of academic disciplines such as accounting, mining, fisheries, engineering, and rural development, among others. Keynote speakers included Liz Ross, Deputy Director of Tanana Chiefs Conference, Beth Stuart, Managing partner of KPMG Anchorage and Marissa Wardrop, Corporate Controller of ASRC.
Students attended the event for several reasons, including their interest in Alaska Native Corporations and the career potential in the industry, as well as the chance to expand their professional network. Additionally, for some classes, the seminar offered an opportunity to earn extra credit, which encouraged student participation.
Throughout the seminar, speakers covered a range of topics, including the history, and the current and future projects of Alaska Native Corporations. These discussions emphasized the distinctiveness of these corporations compared to those in the Lower 48, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Native corporations in Alaska. Dr. Liz Ross, in particular, focused on the of the 13th regional, shedding light on the fiduciary duties to shareholders.
Dr. Liz Ross discusses the “ghost corporation” of the 13th regional with audience member, Bear Ketzler.
Dr. Liz Ross, keynote speaker, shares her experience as the CEO of the 13th Regional Corporation students, faculty, staff, and community members.
The UAF CBSM marketing team poses together after documenting the evening; From left, Amber Bratlie, Morrow Duszynski, and Adeline Berry.
The event provided insight into the history and trajectory of Alaska Native Corporations while detailing upcoming career and internship opportunities within these organizations. They announced summer internships with KPMG, which fill up quickly and are highly sought after.
They also shared insight into the skills that are becoming increasingly valuable in today’s job market, such as AI proficiency, AI data analytics, project management, and time management. Speakers encouraged students to get involved beyond the classroom by participating in clubs, attending events, and seeking out volunteer opportunities. They emphasized that, in addition to contributing to the community, students who stay engaged are also building connections with potential employers and demonstrating their work ethic and commitment.
Professionals at the event highlighted the significant value of seminars like this, emphasizing how they offer students a real-world perspective that is crucial as they prepare to enter their careers.
“It provides students with historical information that ties directly to the courses we are taking, offering real-world applications,” Liz Ross shared. “Additionally, it gives them the chance to network with industry experts, which can be an essential step in launching their careers.”
The seminar was a reminder that being career-ready goes beyond textbooks. Building a professional network, staying informed about industry changes, and developing in-demand skills like AI proficiency and project management can set students apart. Whether it’s through attending future CBSM events, joining a club like GAAP, or seeking out internship opportunities, students were encouraged to stay involved and take ownership of their career paths.